Worried about knee replacement?

Hello! I’m your doctor, and I want you to think of me as your friend. I know the thought of surgery can be scary, but my goal is to walk with you every step of the way. Knee replacement is one of the most successful surgeries in modern medicine, and it’s designed to do one simple thing: give you your life back from pain.

Let's clear up some common worries with these simple questions and answers.

Part 1: Understanding the Basics

1. Doctor, what exactly is a knee replacement?

Think of your knee joint like the tread on a tyre. Over time, the smooth covering (called cartilage) wears out, causing the bones to rub against each other. This is what causes that grinding pain. In a knee replacement, we simply replace that damaged surface with a new, smooth, artificial one. It's like putting a brand-new, high-quality tread on your tyre.

2. Why do I really need this surgery?

We only recommend this surgery when your knee pain is severe enough to stop you from doing everyday things – like walking, climbing stairs, or even sleeping peacefully. The main reason to do it is to get rid of that constant pain and help you become active and independent again.

3. Am I too old or too young for this?

Age is just a number! What matters is your pain level and your overall health. We have performed this surgery successfully on patients from their 40s to their 90s. The right time is when the pain is controlling your life, not the other way around.

Part 2: The Surgery Itself

4. Will the surgery be very painful?

This is the biggest fear for most people, and I want to reassure you. During the surgery, you will be given anaesthesia, so you will not feel any pain at all. Afterwards, we have excellent pain management techniques with modern medicines to keep you comfortable. Some discomfort is normal, but we will manage it very effectively.

5. How long does the surgery take?

The procedure itself is surprisingly quick, usually taking about 60 to 90 minutes. My team and I have done this hundreds of times, and we are very efficient.

6. What is my new knee made of? Will it be safe?

Your new knee joint is made of very strong, medical-grade materials, like a special metal alloy and a durable plastic spacer. These are the same materials used in millions of patients worldwide and are designed to last for a very, very long time. They are completely safe for your body.

7. What are the risks? I'm scared something will go wrong.

It's normal to worry. Every surgery has some risks, like infection or blood clots, but they are very rare. We take every possible precaution to prevent them, like giving you antibiotics and asking you to do simple exercises. We will discuss these in detail, but please know that the chance of a major problem is very low.

Part 3: Life After Surgery

8. How long will I be in the hospital?

Most patients are in the hospital for about 3 to 4 days. Our goal is to get you up and moving quickly and safely, so you can recover in the comfort of your own home.

9. When can I start walking again?

You will be surprised! We will help you stand and take your first steps with the help of a walker the very next day after your surgery. It’s the most important step towards your new life.

10. What is recovery like at home? Will I need help?

Recovery is a gradual process. You will be doing simple exercises every day to strengthen your knee. You will likely need some help from your family for the first few weeks with things like cooking and cleaning. But you’ll be surprised at how quickly you become independent again. We are a team in this!

11. When can I go back to my normal life?

Most people are back to doing their daily activities within 4 to 6 weeks. You can expect to be driving in about a month and can even return to light work. We want you to enjoy your life, including walking in the park, gardening, or playing with your grandchildren, all without pain.

Part 4: Important Practical Questions

12. Doctor, is this surgery very expensive? What if I can't afford it?

This is a very important question. The great news for many people in India is the Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) scheme. This government program covers the entire cost of knee replacement for eligible families. This means you can get a world-class procedure done for free. My team can help you check if you are covered by this wonderful scheme. Don't let cost be a barrier to a pain-free life.

13. How long will my new knee last?

With modern technology and materials, a new knee joint is like a long-term investment. Over 90% of knee replacements are still working perfectly even after 15 to 20 years!

14. Will I be able to bend my knee and sit on the floor?

After your surgery and with regular exercises, you will be able to bend your knee very well—enough to sit comfortably on a chair, use stairs, and get in and out of a car. While sitting on the floor (cross-legged) is not always recommended as it puts extra stress on the implant, many patients can do it. We'll focus on getting you the movement you need for a comfortable life.

15. What is the next step?

The next step is to talk to us. Let's sit down, discuss your specific situation, and answer any other questions you have. There is no pressure. This is about you, your health, and your happiness.

A Final Word From Your Doctor & Friend

Remember, you are not alone in this. The goal of knee replacement is not just to fix a joint; it's to restore your smile, your freedom, and your ability to enjoy the small joys of life. Let's take this step together.