Recovery with toddler

I know every doctor gives different post op recommendations and every patient recovers differently. That said, how much help is really needed? I have two kids, the oldest is 13 and can help around the house and such but the youngest will be 4 in a few weeks and we stay home together during the day as the oldest goes to school. My husband can take about 3 weeks to stay at home and help me recover after the surgery but after that I would be pretty much alone with my kids. So by week 4 could I be able to drive (short distances), and carry my youngest from time to time? Just trying to get perspective