Getting ready for knee surgery

OK, so you've decided to go ahead with knee replacement surgery, but when is the right time?

You’ve made the big decision — knee replacement surgery is officially on the horizon! But when is the right time to take the plunge and swap out that creaky hinge? Well, that’s a conversation you and your doctor need to have, but here’s a quick cheat sheet of signs that might tell you it’s time:

  • Severe pain or stiffness making your daily tasks feel like a marathon
  • Moderate pain even when you're resting or (even worse) trying to sleep
  • Chronic inflammation and swelling that refuses to go away, no matter how much you baby it
  • Knee looking a little... off (think, a bit more "wonky" than usual)
  • Other treatments didn’t cut it—you’ve tried the alternatives, and your knee still isn't playing ball

While the old-school advice was to wait as long as possible before getting a total knee replacement (because who really wants to fast-track surgery?), new studies say that going for it earlier can lead to better results. In fact, younger patients with less advanced arthritis often have fewer complications and come out of surgery feeling like rock stars. But again, the decision is totally yours (and your doctor’s) to make!

How to get ready for your knee replacement

So, you and your surgeon have decided to go for it – you’re getting a new knee! Now let’s make sure you’re all set for the big day:

Prep your body for the big day

Eat better, kick the smokes, ease up on the booze, and get moving! The healthier you are, the smoother your recovery will be.

Make your home knee-friendly

Arrange transport: Line up a ride for surgery day and your return trip home.

Cook ahead: Prepare meals in advance so you won’t have to worry about cooking post-surgery.

Keep it close: Place everyday essentials (phone, water, snacks) within easy reach.

Walker or cane practice: If you’ll need one, practice moving around with it so you’re confident.

Safety first: Add grab bars in your shower, bathroom, and on stairs. Clear any trip hazards like loose rugs or cables.

Comfort zone: Set up a firm, comfy chair with armrests – you’ll thank yourself later!

One-floor living: Avoid stairs by creating a temporary living space on one floor.

Know the risks

Talk to your doctor about possible risks and complications. Be upfront about your medical history, lifestyle, and concerns so you can tackle them head-on.

What to expect before, during & after surgery

Knowing what’s coming makes it way easier to focus on the good part – healing up and getting back to your life.

Surgery can feel like a big unknown. But it doesn’t have to be. When you know what’s ahead, it’s less scary and a whole lot more like one big step toward feeling free again.

Here’s the inside scoop on what to expect, plus smart questions to ask so you’re ready to conquer the world.

Before
surgery

This is your prep time – getting your body, mind, and home ready to make recovery a breeze.

  • Pre-op appointments – Blood tests, X-rays, or scans, plus medical clearance from your GP.
  • Meet your surgical team – Chat through the plan, ask questions, and lock in any special instructions.
  • Medication adjustments – Your surgeon will let you know if you need to stop or change anything.
  • Home makeover (mini edition) – Clear walkways, set up a comfy recovery space, and keep essentials within arm’s reach.
  • Prehab exercises – A little muscle work now = a smoother comeback later.

Questions to ask:

  • When and where should I be on surgery day?
  • What should I pack for my hospital stay?
  • How can I get my home ready for recovery?

During
surgery

This is where the magic happens – and you’ve got a whole team focused on you.

  • Anesthesia – Whether it’s a spinal block, general anesthesia, or both, your anaesthetist will guide you through it.
  • Monitoring – Your vitals are checked every step of the way to keep things smooth and safe.

Questions to ask:

  • What type of anesthesia will I get, and how long will it last?
  • How long will the surgery take?
  • Who’s going to be in the operating room with me?

After
surgery

This is the start of your comeback story.

  • Recovery room wake-up – Nurses keep an eye on your vitals, check your knee, and manage your pain.
  • First steps – Most patients walk (with help) the same day. Yes, really.
  • Pain management – Medication to keep you comfortable and able to do physio.
  • Home time – There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline. Your discharge depends on how you handled the surgery and how your recovery is starting out.
  • Ongoing recovery – Regular exercises, check-ins, and small wins

Questions to ask:

  • How much pain will I feel, and how will it be managed?
  • When can I go home?
  • When does rehab start, and what will it involve?
  • When can I get back to my usual routines?
  • Who do I call if something feels off?

What to expect before, during & after surgery

Knowing what’s coming can make the process feel way less overwhelming. Here are some questions to ask your surgeon:

  • When and where should I be on surgery day?
  • What should I pack?
  • How long will the surgery take?
  • What type of anesthesia will I get, and how long will it last?
  • How much pain will I feel, and how will it be managed?
  • When can I go home?
  • What’s the rehab plan, and when does it start?
  • When can I get back to my usual routines?
  • Who do I call if something seems off?
Ready to take the next step?
Speak to one of South Africa’s leading knee specialists today.
Find a specialist near you

Keeping your new knee in top shape

Today’s knee implants are built to last, but here’s how to give yours the best shot at a long life:

Download knee replacement guide

Follow your surgeon’s instructions to the letter.

Stick with your rehab schedule and show up for follow-up appointments.

Stay active but avoid any heavy-duty lifting or pushing.

Skip long periods of squatting, kneeling, or sitting on low surfaces.

Take your time when standing or sitting down.

If something doesn’t feel right during your recovery, don’t wait – call the doc!