Knee replacement surgery is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries in the United States. Hundreds of thousands of patients receive surgery every year and that number is expected to continue to grow.
Even though it is a common surgery, if you do not know what to expect, the uncertainty can cause anxiety.
As you are considering knee replacement surgery, this article will help you understand the timeline of recovery and what to expect:
Everyone’s journey is different but knowing what’s ahead can help you feel prepared and confident.
Knee replacement surgery replaces damaged or worn knee structures with artificial parts, often metal or plastic. It helps reduce pain and restore movement for people with arthritis, injury, or joint damage that no longer responds to other treatments.
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Depending on your needs, you could stay in the hospital for 1–3 days. However, modern medicine, physicians like to get you moving as soon as possible. In many cases, you will go home after knee replacement surgery the same day. Right after surgery, you will begin walking and might even climb stairs.
You’ll begin physical therapy early, sometimes within 24 hours. Pain will be strongest in the first 2–3 days and gradually improve.
Typical post-op milestones:
What happens during knee replace surgery:
When knee pain makes it hard to walk, rest or enjoy daily life, knee replacement surgery can offer a fresh start. During the procedure, your surgeon carefully removes the damaged parts of your knee joint and replaces them with smooth, durable surfaces that help your knee move with less pain.
Most patients receive anesthesia to stay comfortable, and the care team stays close by to guide you through every step — from preparation to recovery.
Once the new joint is in place, your surgeon checks its alignment and movement before closing the incision. After surgery, your team will help you take your first steps, show you how to protect your new knee, and teach you simple exercises that support healing.
Recovery happens in phases. This timeline shows common patterns, but your care team will personalize your plan.
Common, expected side effects:
Concerning side effects (call your doctor):
For more detail on pain patterns, see when you should worry about pain after knee surgery.
Many people choose knee replacement because they want life to feel easier again. With healing and physical therapy, you may notice:
Most patients reach major milestones within 3–6 months, such as walking longer distances and returning to daily activities. Full recovery and lasting strength may take up to one year.
These procedures are less invasive, so patients often experience quicker mobility and less swelling. However, physical therapy remains just as important for regaining strength and flexibility.
Partial replacements typically cause fewer side effects like stiffness or numbness, but risks such as infection or blood clots can occur with both.
Titanium and other materials are used in knee implants, but recovery time and the rehabilitation process are generally the same regardless of the material.
Yes. Building leg strength before surgery, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling conditions like diabetes, and preparing your home with safety features can all improve recovery outcomes.
Physical therapy usually begins within hours of surgery. A therapist or nurse will help you sit up, stand, and start simple exercises to improve circulation and prevent complications.
Most patients start with clear liquids shortly after surgery. If tolerated, they move to full liquids and then back to their usual diet within a day or two. The care team will guide you based on your recovery.
Most patients see their surgeon within 1–2 weeks after surgery. Some receive several home health visits before transitioning to outpatient therapy. The exact plan depends on your mobility, home support, and overall progress.
When knee pain slows you down, the right care can help you move freely again, with less pain, more confidence, and support that feels personal every step of the way.
Get started on your knee recovery with care close to home.
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