Knee Replacement Surgery: Common Patient Questions

Thinking about knee replacement surgery naturally raises many questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequently discussed concerns from patients considering treatment for knee arthritis.

My knee is painful, stiff and makes grinding noises, but I’ve been told I’m too young

Knee arthritis is not limited to older age groups and can affect people at different stages of life. While your GP’s advice is valuable, an assessment by a specialist knee surgeon is important when symptoms are affecting your daily activities.

How do I know when it’s the right time for knee replacement?

The decision to proceed with knee surgery is a shared one, made between you and Mr Pavlou. There is no fixed timetable, and surgery is never rushed. Advice will be given when it may be an optimal time based on age, the amount of wear in the knee and the risk of redo in your lifetime should the first knee replacement implant not last and wear out.

A specialist consultation allows you to explore all available options, including non-surgical and less invasive treatments. When symptoms significantly affect quality of life and other treatments no longer help, surgery may be considered.

Is there an age limit for knee replacement surgery?

Age alone does not determine suitability for knee replacement. The decision is based on symptoms, knee function, lifestyle needs and overall health.

Both younger and older patients may benefit from tailored treatment approaches designed to support long-term joint health and maintain activity levels.

Why do many people delay knee surgery?

People often delay knee surgery for several reasons, including:

• Concerns about pain and recovery
• Uncertainty about how successful surgery will be
• Limited awareness of modern surgical techniques and options
• Worries about the possibility of needing further surgery in the future

In hindsight, many patients say that treating their knee problem earlier could have improved their quality of life sooner. However, the decision to proceed with surgery should always be carefully balanced against what a knee replacement can realistically achieve in terms of function and symptom relief, compared with your personal expectations.

Understanding this balance is essential. Mr Pavlou will help you explore this honestly and openly, providing clear, balanced advice so you can make a fully informed decision that is right for you.

What happens once I decide to go ahead with surgery?

Before surgery, you will receive thorough preparation, including:

• A detailed discussion with your surgeon about the procedure
• A medical assessment to ensure you are fit for surgery
• Advice from a physiotherapist on exercises and post-operative care

This process is designed to help you feel informed and supported.

What type of anaesthetic is used?

Knee replacement surgery can be performed using either:

• General anaesthesia, where you are fully asleep, or
• Spinal anaesthesia, which numbs the lower body

An anaesthetist will review your medical history and explain the safest option for you.

Usually a spinal anaesthetic is recommended and is safer. Some patients are worried about staying “awake” during the operation. The anaesthetist is able to offer sedation in addition to a spinal anaesthetic.

How long does the surgery take?

Most knee replacement procedures take 1 hour although the exact duration depends on the type of surgery being performed and some more complex surgeries can take longer.

What is recovery like after surgery?

It is normal to experience discomfort following knee replacement surgery, particularly in the early stages. Pain is managed using medication and simple measures to reduce swelling and stiffness.

Helpful recovery strategies include:

• Regular cold therapy
• Keeping the leg elevated when resting
• Taking prescribed pain medication as directed
• Gentle exercises to restore movement
• Gradual increases in walking activity

Your physiotherapy team will guide you through each stage of recovery.

How long will I stay in hospital?

Hospital stays vary depending on the procedure and individual recovery. Most patients are discharged within one to three days, once they are comfortable, mobile and safe to return home. Some patients are allowed home on the same day in some instances.

When can I return to work?

The timing of return to work depends on your role:

• Sedentary jobs may allow a gradual return within a few weeks
• Physically demanding work usually requires a longer recovery period

Many patients benefit from taking 6–8 weeks to focus fully on rehabilitation.

How long does full recovery take?

Recovery after knee replacement is gradual and continues over time. While early improvements are often noticed within weeks, it may take 12–24 months to feel fully confident in the knee.

Progress is not always linear, and occasional setbacks are normal. With consistent rehabilitation, most patients experience lasting improvements in pain, stability and function.

When can I fly after knee replacement?

You should generally wait at least 6 weeks for short-haul flights and 3 months (12 weeks) for long-haul flights after knee replacement to minimise blood clot risk. If you are higher risk, Mr Pavlou may recommend a longer duration before flying.

Before flying, stay hydrated, move around the plane and consider wearing compression stockings.

Airport security

Implants may set off scanners. Inform the security officers, who will use a handheld scanner.