carpal tunnel surgery recovery

Has anyone here actually had surgery for CTS (the one where they basically cut a ligament to make more room for the nerves)? If so, what was your recovery like as far as lifting? Seems like the cut is in a pretty bad spot for holding a bar, especially for pressing or benching. I suppose it could just be machines for a while to avoid that, but that's no fun. But neither is ripping open stitches or a fresh wound. :) Or maybe it's not in such a bad spot after all, and it's just dealing with post-op pain? Was your grip weaker for long post-op? Drs. said I could do normal daily activities right away, but I'm pretty sure that doesn't mean heading straight to the gym.

Thanks for any insight!

randy