Hey there! Well, first of all, how much you lose in the first month or so depends on what you have to lose. If you weigh 400 lbs, you may lose 50 that first month. If you have 80 lbs to lose, you might only lose 15 or 20. It's hard to say. Your diligence will play a part in that of course.
Question 2- It absolutely has to be whatever your surgeon tells you to do. They are all a little different, but you must follow his directions TO THE LETTER for your own safety.
Question 3- No problem. I drove home from Dallas to Albuquerque a week later. I had some help, but did most of the driving.
Ask away.....