How long does it take to recover from laparascopy surgery?

I am 36yrs. old and have been having sudden changes in my monthly cycles. My periods have begun to last 9 days or more( in the past 3 months), with severe abdominal cramping, and heavier than normal flow. The doctor would like to rule out some things and has suggested this procedure. I have 2 young boys and run a preschool. So, I just would like to know how long I would be "laid off" so to speak. He has also suggested depending on the "scope" results that I just go ahead and have a hysterectomy. I am very scared by this. But i also know I don't like being in this much pain. So, if i had to have a hysterectomy, how long would i be off recovering from that? Please only serious answers. I see the doc on Tuesday. I just think women who have gone through these things sometimes have better answers than the docs do. thank you and god bless.