Private knee replacement surgery
Persistent knee pain and stiffness can limit how you move and affect everyday life. Private knee replacement surgery may be an option when knee osteoarthritis is advanced, and non-surgical treatments haven’t improved symptoms.
At OS Clinic, surgery is only recommended after a consultant-led assessment, helping you decide whether a knee replacement is likely to improve pain, movement and quality of life.
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Knee replacement surgery at a glance
- A surgical procedure that replaces worn knee joint surfaces with artificial components
- For advanced osteoarthritis when non-surgical care is no longer helping
- Partial or total replacement, depending on which areas are affected
- Hospital procedure under general anaesthetic by a consultant orthopaedic surgeon
- Surgery takes around one to two hours
- Hospital stay is usually a few days, depending on recovery
- Reducing arthritis pain early, with strength and movement improving over months
- Designed to last many years, with lifespan shaped by activity, weight and health
What is knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is an operation to relieve pain and stiffness caused by damage inside the knee joint, most often from osteoarthritis. During the procedure, the worn surfaces of the knee are replaced with smooth artificial components that help the joint move more comfortably.
The aim of surgery is to reduce knee pain and improve everyday movement, such as walking, standing and climbing stairs. Many people consider knee replacement when symptoms are no longer improving with treatments like physiotherapy, injections or medication.
Knee replacement is more common in older adults, but it can be considered at different ages depending on symptoms and lifestyle. For some people, especially those who are younger or very active, other surgical options (such as knee realignment surgery) may be explored first to delay or avoid replacing the knee joint.
In most cases, a replacement knee will last over 20 years.
Types of knee replacement surgery
A partial knee replacement replaces only the damaged part of the knee, rather than the whole joint. It’s usually considered when arthritis is limited to one area of the knee.
What’s involved?
A small incision is made, and the worn cartilage and a small amount of bone are removed from the affected area. These are replaced with metal components that create a new joint surface.
Possible advantages
Because less of the knee is replaced, recovery is often quicker than with total knee replacement. Many people experience less pain after surgery and retain more natural movement in the knee.
Things to consider
If arthritis develops in other parts of the knee in the future, further surgery may be needed. Outcomes are generally very good, but PKR isn’t suitable for everyone.
Recovery
Most people are up and walking shortly after surgery and begin physiotherapy exercises soon afterwards. Many return to normal daily activities within around six weeks. Driving is usually possible after about four to six weeks, depending on progress.
A total knee replacement replaces all the main joint surfaces of the knee. It’s usually recommended when arthritis affects more than one part of the joint.
What’s involved?
Damaged cartilage and bone are removed and replaced with metal components. A smooth plastic surface is added to help the joint move comfortably.
Possible advantages
Most people experience a significant reduction in knee pain and find everyday activities much easier after recovery.
Longevity of the joint
Modern knee replacements are designed to last many years, often 15 to 20 years or more. Higher impact activities can increase wear over time.
Activity after surgery
You should be able to walk, swim, cycle, drive and take part in low-impact activities. High-impact sports such as running and jumping are usually discouraged.
Recovery
Recovery happens gradually and depends on rehabilitation. Many people see steady improvement over the first few months, with full recovery taking up to a year. Driving is often possible after four to six weeks, once you can safely control the car.
Private knee replacement with OS Clinic
You may be more likely to need partial or total knee replacement surgery if damage inside the knee joint is causing ongoing pain, stiffness and difficulty with everyday activities.
This may be due to:
- Osteoarthritis
- Inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis
- Arthritis that develops after a previous knee injury
- Gout that has caused repeated joint damage
- Reduced blood supply to part of the knee, known as avascular necrosis
- Changes in the shape or alignment of the knee joint
Your consultant will assess which type of knee replacement is right for your needs.In some cases, further assessment using keyhole surgery may be recommended to help decide which option is likely to give the best outcome.
For the right person, knee replacement surgery can lead to a meaningful improvement in comfort and mobility. Potential benefits include:
- Significant reduction in knee pain
- Improved ability to walk, stand and move more comfortably
- Better sleep and less disruption from night-time symptoms
- Increased confidence with everyday activities, such as stairs and longer walks
The level of improvement varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the condition of the knee, overall health and commitment to rehabilitation. Knee replacement is recommended when the likely benefits are felt to outweigh the risks and limitations.
Choosing where to have knee replacement surgery is an important decision. At OS Clinic, care is consultant-led from the first assessment through surgery and recovery.
You’ll be seen by a knee specialist who takes the time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle and goals before recommending surgery. Knee replacement is only advised when it’s felt to be the right option, and alternatives are discussed openly if they’re more appropriate.
Surgery is carried out by experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeons, with careful planning and modern techniques. After surgery, your care is supported by a coordinated team, helping ensure rehabilitation, follow-up and recovery are clearly guided.
If you’re considering knee replacement surgery, the first step is a consultation with a specialist knee consultant. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, review any imaging and explore whether surgery is appropriate for you.
