I had two full knee replacements. Right knee in 2007, then the left in 2008, about a year apart. I was 56 (and then 57) years old, and was told that I was one of the younger folks to opt for the surgery. However, my knees had grown awfully creaky lately, noisily so. I had been getting fluid drained every three months, and lots of pain meds.
I was working full time (software programming) then, and vowed to get back to it as swiftly as possible. I made it in four weeks both times.
The rehab was tiresome, but really painful only when the instructor would manually bend my knees! (We did have those oxycodon drugs available then!) I probably should have gone at rehab longer, as I feel that I never regained full flexibility. My legs seemed to have recovered fully so far as strength and support, though I still can't kneel on either side ... too painful.
Back then they said the implants might only be good for 7-10 years before needing renewal. At the time I said "So what? Fix 'em now. After that time I'll be ready for a wheelchair if necessary." That was a dumb response, but it got me through it.
Still, my knees are 18 and 17 years old, and were in good shape (recently x-rayed to prove). Newer models must be still better! I get into our swimming pool and exercise there, every day, unless it's storming, or really too cold (Florida). I did it today in water at 66 degrees F.
Now I'm 74 with the other usual old-age problems, but I can walk, so I recommend the procedure if you need it.
(I'll answer any more questions if anybody cares to ask.)
