My lump was 1.8mm too. I found the biopsy more painful than the lumpectomy. I didn't have a drain or anything. On my discharge form I had to give the name of the person looking after me. So you will need someone to look in on you at least.
I was told to take 10 days off work. I think that was due to the general anaesthetic and the pain killers. Driving is out due to the drugs. The wound itself was pretty painless. Cooking and showers should be fine to do. Albeit more carefully than usual. Probably just reheat the first few days.
It is good to have someone there or at least regularly checking on you (just in case). For example I got a canker sore, so needed stuff from the chemist.
I always feel a bit woebegone day 3 or 4 after general anaesthetic so it's nice to have someone around for that. Nothing that someone bringing you a cup of tea doesn't fix.
i think the real issue is whether the hospital will let you go home with no one there.
