You will be admitted on the day of surgery. After the surgery, you will typically spend 1-2 nights recovering in hospital. The anaesthetic drugs will keep you comfortable for the first few hours before the pain starts to become noticeable. However, you will receive plenty of painkillers to help with the pain. The first few weeks can be difficult but it is important that you work with your physiotherapist and keep the joint moving. Your surgeon will see you around 6-8 weeks after the surgery, by which time you should start to see the benefits of the knee replacement. It can take up to 12-18 months to enjoy the full benefits of the knee replacement.

It is usually possible to return back to driving and short walks after 6-8 weeks. You may have to inform your employer regarding 2-3 months absence from work following your knee replacement.