We know patients and families often have many questions before and after knee replacement surgery. To make things simple, we’ve gathered the most common doubts about preparation, surgery procedure, recovery, lifestyle, and long-term results—all answered in easy-to-understand language. Whether you’re planning surgery or supporting a loved one, this guide will help you feel confident, informed, and stress-free on the journey to pain-free movement.
It is a surgical procedure where the damaged parts of the knee joint (cartilage and bone) are replaced with an artificial implant (metal + plastic) to reduce pain and improve movement.
People with severe knee arthritis or injury who have constant pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty in walking, and when medicines/physiotherapy are no longer effective.
Osteoarthritis (age-related wear and tear)
Rheumatoid arthritis
Old injuries or fractures
Obesity (extra weight puts pressure on knees)
No. In knee replacement, the entire joint surface is changed, while in resurfacing only the damaged surface is covered with artificial material.
Some pain and stiffness are normal for the first few weeks, but medicines and physiotherapy help a lot.
Yes, for the first few days stronger painkillers are given. Later, milder medicines are usually enough. Pain is generally manageable and improves steadily.
Yes, nerve block or local anesthetic injections are often given during or after surgery. These help reduce pain for the first few hours or days. Injections reduce the need for strong medicines.
Swelling is common for 2–3 weeks after surgery. Mild swelling may last for a few months depending on activity. Ice packs and leg elevation help in faster recovery.
Most patients can start standing and walking with support within 24 hours of surgery. Walking ability improves daily with physiotherapy. By a few weeks, patients can walk more comfortably.
Generally, ICU is not needed for routine patients. Only those with heart, lung, or serious medical issues may require ICU observation. Most patients stay in a normal ward.
Initial recovery takes 6–8 weeks when walking and basic movements become easier. Full recovery, including muscle strength, takes 3–6 months. Long-term improvements continue up to a year.
Yes, most patients can start climbing stairs with support after 4–6 weeks. Physiotherapy teaches safe techniques for climbing. Over time, patients can manage stairs normally.
Total knee replacement means replacing the whole knee joint with metal and plastic implants. The damaged bone and cartilage are removed from both sides of the joint. It gives pain relief and allows smoother walking.
In this surgery, only the damaged part of the knee is replaced and the healthy side is preserved. It is less invasive compared to total knee replacement. Recovery is faster and the knee feels more natural.
This surgery uses a robotic arm to help the surgeon perform precise bone cuts and implant placement. The robot never works alone; the surgeon controls it fully. It improves accuracy and may lead to longer-lasting results.
Here, only the worn-out surface of the knee is covered with a customized 3D implant. Unlike full replacement, less bone is removed. It is suitable for selected patients with limited damage.
Like any surgery, risks include infection, blood clots, implant loosening, stiffness, or nerve injury. Most complications are rare and can be managed. Proper care reduces risk.
Yes, infection is possible but very uncommon (1–2% cases). Antibiotics, sterile techniques, and proper wound care minimize this risk. Severe infections may require revision surgery.
Implants can loosen after many years of use. This causes pain and instability in the knee. Revision surgery is then performed to replace the implant.
Yes, clots can form in the legs due to less movement. Doctors prescribe blood-thinning medicines, exercises, and stockings to prevent this. Early walking also lowers the risk.