I also am a server in a very busy restaurant. I work 8-9 hour shifts. I went back at 3 weeks. I'm probably pushing it but I also went to Mexico to have the surgery and I didn't want anyone to know. So I try and not push my self to hard. It's a hard one but I'm sure you will make the right decision for you. If you are seeing a psychiatrist have them take you out on stress leave and go on disability while you heal. Just a thought.