You arrive at the hospital in the morning, have surgery, and return home later in the day. Much of this change can be attributed to new surgical techniques and faster anesthetic agents.
People awaken more quickly from surgery, and are able to go home sooner.
Keyes cautions against underestimating a surgical procedure simply because you're released soon after. It's important not to underestimate your recovery period. You wouldn't be cooking dinner, or strolling the supermarket aisles. You'd be in bed, resting, with people taking care of you. That's exactly what you should do at home.