Frequently asked questions
How soon will I be up and about?
You’ll be helped out of bed to stand around 12 to 24 hours after your operation. You can then walk with a frame or crutches and should be able to do so independently after a week. If you’ve had keyhole surgery or are on an enhanced recovery programme, it may be sooner.
A physiotherapist will show you some exercises you can do to help strengthen your knee that you can start the day after surgery.
How long will it be before I feel normal?
It can take up to two years for your knee to recover, however, you should be able to resume normal daily activities within six weeks and any pain and swelling should settle within three months. Your leg may be swollen for up to a year.
When can I drive again?
You shouldn’t drive until it’s safe for you to do so – this means you should be able to comfortably make an emergency stop and be free from the sedative side effects of any painkillers. This is usually four to six weeks after your operation. Many insurance companies don’t insure you for a number of weeks after an operation, so make sure you check before you drive.
When can I go back to work?
Working can help your recovery by keeping you active. If you have a desk job, you can usually return to work around eight weeks after your operation, but it can be up to 12 weeks if you have a more physically active job.
When can I do housework?
You should be able to get back to most daily activities including light chores after six weeks. Avoid standing for too long to avoid ankle swelling and don’t stretch or bend down. You should avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for three months after your operation.
How will it affect my sex life?
There’s no set time when it’s safe to have sex. You should treat it like any other physical activity during your recovery and gradually build up to it and only if it feels comfortable. Make sure you follow your physiotherapists advice about what movements to avoid.
Will I have to go back to the hospital?
You’ll return to hospital a few weeks after your operation for a follow-up appointment to check your recovery progress.
Will I need another new knee?
For most people, their new knee lasts around 20 years or even longer for total knee replacement. Partial knee replacements tend to need to be replaced sooner – after around 10 years. The chances of needing a repeat operation is higher if you’re overweight, you run, play vigorous sports or you conduct heavy manual work.
Are there any sports or activities I shouldn't do after my knee replacement?
You should gradually build up any activity, and should be able to manage walking or swimming around six to eight weeks after surgery, depending how fit you were before surgery. You should avoid high impact sports such as running, contact sports or weight lifting. Your consultant or physiotherapist will be able to advise which sports you can do, they may recommend avoiding tennis, squash and skiing, but cycling, dancing and golf may be fine.
How can I make my recovery easier?
Preparing for your surgery by being as fit as possible and strengthening your knee muscles will help improve your recovery time. Before your operation, it’s also a good idea to prepare your home to make it easier for you to get around safely and more easily. Remove anything you can trip over and make sure important items are easy to reach.
For the first few days or weeks at home, you may need someone to help you with errands and household chores.
When can I fly after knee replacement surgery?
Speak to your consultant or GP before flying to find out what’s right for you. It’s important to note that your chance of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) increases if you fly after recent surgery.
Airlines have their own regulations about passengers flying after surgery, so make sure you check beforehand.
What are knee implants made from?
Knee implants are made from high-grade plastics, polymers and metal alloys.
What kind of metal is used in knee replacements
There are several different metals commonly used in knee replacements, specifically cobalt-chromium, nickel, titanium and zirconium.
How much walking can I do after a knee replacement?
In the first one to three weeks after your surgery, you may only be able to stand and/or walk for around 10 minutes. As your recovery progresses, you will be able to walk further and with less assistance.
After six weeks, you may be able to walk a few hundred metres without a walking aid. It is important to gradually increase your activity level and walking is a good way to do this. However, listen to your body; if you are feeling overly tired or in pain, have a rest.
Can I run after a knee replacement?
It is best to avoid high-impact activities after a knee replacement and this includes running. It is still important to stay active, so you can try low-impact activities, such as cycling, dancing and swimming.
Can both knees be replaced at the same time?
Yes, both knees can be replaced at the same time. This may be recommended if you have osteoarthritis in both knees. However, the surgery and recovery time are longer — you will also need more support during your recovery.
Can you have a knee replacement if you are overweight?
Yes, you can have a knee replacement if you are overweight. However, being overweight puts you at greater risk of certain complications during and after surgery. Your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of knee replacement surgery in your particular case with you so you can make an informed decision.
