Total and partial knee replacement for advanced arthritis, planned by an orthopedic surgeon with more than 35 years of experience, so you can walk without pain again.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicolás Zarur · Updated October 2026
When arthritis makes every step hurt and other treatments no longer work, a knee replacement can give you back a life without pain. Most patients walk the day after surgery and return to daily activities within weeks.
Surgery time
Hospital stay
Walking with support
Daily activities
*Typical ranges. Your timeline depends on your health and your rehab. [Validate all figures with Dr. Zarur.]
In a knee replacement, the worn surfaces of the joint are replaced with metal and high-grade plastic components that recreate a smooth, pain-free joint.
It can be total, when the whole joint is replaced, or partial, when only one compartment is worn. A partial replacement keeps more of your own knee and usually means a faster recovery.
The decision depends on how much the pain limits your life, not only on the X-ray. You may be a candidate if:
If the damage is still limited, options like cartilage repair or arthroscopy may help you delay surgery. We’ll tell you honestly.
All three compartments of the knee are resurfaced. The most common option for widespread arthritis, with long-lasting results.
Only the worn compartment is replaced. Smaller incision, more natural feel and faster recovery, when arthritis is limited to one area.
Every replacement is planned with your X-rays to choose the right implant size and alignment. The goal is a stable, well-balanced knee that feels as natural as possible.
After surgery, you start moving the same day or the next, because early movement means faster recovery.
[Dr. Zarur to add: implants he uses, surgical approach, hospital where he operates in each city, and his experience in numbers.]
This is a typical plan after a total knee replacement. After a partial replacement, recovery is usually faster.
Before surgery
Medical checkup, home preparation and exercises to strengthen the leg.
Days 1–3
Walking with a walker in the hospital, pain control and first physical therapy sessions.
Weeks 1–3
At home with a walker or crutches. Daily exercises to bend and straighten the knee.
Weeks 4–6
Walking with a cane or without support. Many patients return to light activities and driving.
Months 3–6
Most swelling is gone. Walking, cycling, swimming and golf, without the pain you had before.
1 year
Full recovery. Your new knee keeps getting stronger during the first year.
The goal is to walk, travel and enjoy your family without pain. Low-impact activities like walking, cycling, swimming, golf or dancing are encouraged. High-impact sports, like running or jumping, are usually discouraged to protect the implant.
Modern implants usually last 15 to 20 years or more in most patients, depending on activity level, weight and bone quality.
There is no fixed age. The decision depends on your pain, your function and your overall health. Dr. Zarur evaluates each case individually.
The first weeks are the most demanding. Pain is controlled with medication and improves steadily with physical therapy. Most patients say the pain is less than the arthritis pain they had before.
Many patients drive again after 4 to 6 weeks and return to office work in 4 to 8 weeks. Physical jobs may take longer. [Validate with Dr. Zarur.]
Yes, once Dr. Zarur clears you, usually after a short stay to monitor your recovery. [Confirm recommended days before flying and remote follow-up.]
The cost depends on the type of implant, the hospital and your health needs. After reviewing your case, we send you a written plan with the full cost. [Confirm if a price range will be published.]
Book a visit in Tijuana or Mexico City, or send us your X-rays for a remote review.
Get a clear diagnosis and honest options. We reply within one business day.
Trusted by Champions
Former President of the Mexican Football Federation’s Medical Commission and team physician for Cruz Azul, Morelia, Veracruz and Frontón México.
