Is Knee Replacement Worth It? Recovery, Results and What to Expect

8 July

Living with constant knee pain can wear you down physically and emotionally. If you’ve tried physiotherapy, medication or injections with little relief, you may wonder if undergoing knee replacement surgery is worth it. Before you commit, it helps to understand the full picture, from potential benefits and risks to recovering from knee replacement. Our guide breaks down everything you need to know.

Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement is a procedure where damaged cartilage and bone in the knee are removed and replaced with metal and specialised plastic components. It’s commonly recommended for people with advanced joint damage, where mobility is severely affected, or when other treatments have failed to help.

The signs of needing knee replacement vary, but the most frequent cause of knee replacement is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that wears away cartilage. Other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis (which can occur after a fracture or ligament tear), or injury from sports or accidents may also lead to joint damage severe enough to require surgery. Many patients also undergo treatment when their knee seriously affects mobility and quality of life.

Overview of the Procedure

During the operation, the orthopaedic surgeon removes damaged joint surfaces and fits the knee with an artificial implant designed to mimic natural surfaces and movement. Some patients may benefit from partial replacements, depending on the location and extent of the damage. Advances in technology, including robotic-assisted surgery, now allow for even greater precision in implant placement.

The Truth About Knee Replacement Surgery: Pros & Cons

While surgery may feel like a last resort, knee replacement has consistently high success rates, with 80% to 90% of patients feeling satisfied or highly satisfied post-op.

A considerable advantage is significant relief from chronic pain, improved joint function and range of motion. After surgery, many patients regain independence and the ability to walk, exercise, and enjoy daily life again. Reduced pain also results in better sleep and emotional wellbeing.

The surgery does come with potential drawbacks, including the process of recovering from knee replacement. Depending on the scale of your operation, it may require a lengthier recovery period and ongoing rehab. Like any other surgery, it also comes with potential risks like infection or blood clots. While many procedures are Medicare or insurance-covered, the cost is also an area of concern for some individuals.

Recovering from Knee Replacement

One of the most common question is: how long does it take to recover from knee replacement? Everyone recovers at their own pace, but understanding the process can help reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations. Here’s a general guide.

Immediate Post-Surgery (Weeks 1 to 3)

You’ll likely stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days after surgery. During this time, you’ll begin moving the knee with assistance, use a walker or crutches, and work with physiotherapists on gentle exercises. Bruising, swelling, and discomfort are normal, but pain is managed with medication.

Short-Term Recovery (Weeks 4 to 6)

You may start walking with less assistance and regain some independence at home. Swelling and pain should begin to subside, your range of motion will gradually improve, and physiotherapy helps with strengthening.

Medium to Long-Term Recovery (3 to 12 Months)

Most patients are back to daily activities after 3 months. This includes returning to work (depending on your job), driving, and even travelling. By 6 months, most people notice a significant improvement in mobility and overall quality of life. Some stiffness or swelling may persist for up to a year, but it typically fades with time. Some people pick up low-impact sports, but ongoing physical therapy and movement are key for continued improvement.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Recovering from knee replacement looks different for everyone, but here are some tips to ease your journey and help manage pain after knee replacement.

Follow your surgeon’s pre- and post-operative plan. This includes medication schedules, wound care, movement restrictions, and when to resume certain activities.
Modify your home to support safe movement and reduce fall risks. You can install handrails in the bathroom or shower, use a raised toilet seat, and remove tripping hazards.
Use ice and elevation to reduce swelling, especially in the first few weeks.
Be consistent with physiotherapy, even when progress feels slow, to rebuild strength and improve flexibility.
Support healing with a healthy, balanced diet rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, and fluids for faster recovery.
Recovery takes time and patience. Keep a positive mindset, focus on small improvements, and track your milestones.

How Long Does a Knee Replacement Last?

So, how long does a knee replacement last? According to the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry, approximately 95% of knee replacements last 20 years or longer, but the answer depends on a few factors.

Younger, more active patients may wear them out sooner due to more or higher impact physical activity that reduces the prostheses’ lifespan. Your weight and health also play a huge role. Surgical precision and the type of implant also matter, helping reduce the need for revision surgery.