Ms. (Dr.) Samantha Tross
Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon
First Black Female Orthopaedic Consultant in the UK
Knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful procedures in modern orthopaedics, but understanding what the operation can — and can't — achieve is essential for anyone considering it. Today's technology is more accurate, implants last longer, and recovery pathways are far more comfortable than they were even a decade ago.
A knee replacement is recommended when arthritis has caused significant pain, stiffness and loss of function despite non-surgical treatments. During the procedure, the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are replaced with smooth, durable components that restore movement and reduce pain. Thanks to improved materials and surgical precision, most implants now last 20–30 years.
Robotic-assisted and computer-guided techniques (increasingly standard in 2025) allow surgeons to align the knee more accurately, leading to better function and reduced long-term wear. Most patients begin walking on the same day as surgery, and physiotherapy starts almost immediately to protect mobility and support a healthy recovery.
Expect improvements gradually: most patients return to normal daily activities within 6–12 weeks, with full benefits often felt around 6–12 months. A knee replacement won't turn you into an athlete overnight, but for most people it dramatically reduces pain and restores the freedom to move without constant discomfort — which is life-changing.