Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about knee surgery, recovery, and treatment options with Mr Sam Nahas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about procedures, recovery, and appointments.
Knee Surgeon in Reading
Do I need a GP referral?
Not for self-pay. Insurers usually require one.
How quickly can I have surgery?
In a very timely manner, but subject to pre-operative health checks and completion of 5-day antibacterial skin washes for safety.
Where will my surgery take place?
At Circle Reading Hospital with full on-site facilities.
ACL Recovery Timeline
Will I need a brace?
Sometimes, especially with meniscus repair, root repair or where other ligaments have been involved. Settings and duration are individualised.
When can I start running?
Often 12–16 weeks, but only when swelling is settled, gait is normal, strength and control tests are satisfactory, and your physio/surgeon clears you.
Is return to sport based on time or tests?
Time is a guide; you return when you meet strength, hop, movement-quality, and confidence criteria. Your physiotherapist will be able to reliably guide you on this.
What if I also had a meniscus repair or root repair?
Expect slower weight-bearing and flexion progress early on to protect the repair. Your protocol will specify exact limits.
Knee Replacement Recovery Timeline
How long will my knee be swollen?
Some swelling is normal for weeks to months, gradually reducing. It often rises on busier days and settles with rest, ice, and elevation.
What is a good range of motion?
Functional goals are full extension (0°) and flexion sufficient for stairs and sitting (110–120°+ for many). Individual variation is expected.
Is recovery faster after a partial knee (UKR)?
Often yes — many patients progress mobility and function a little sooner than TKR, but both continue to improve for months.
When can I fly?
Mr Nahas does not advise flying for 6 weeks after surgery.
Meniscus Repair Recovery Timeline
How long does recovery take after a lateral meniscus repair?
The overall timeline is similar to a medial repair - brace for around 6 weeks, driving at around 6 weeks, running from about 12 weeks and sport at around 6 months - but deep bending, kneeling and twisting under load are usually restricted for longer, through the first 3 months.
How long is recovery from a bucket handle meniscus tear?
A bucket handle tear is a large displaced tear that often leaves the knee locked, and is usually repaired urgently. Because the repair is longer and under more load, protection is extended: a brace with restricted bending for the first 6 weeks, running later than after a small repair, and return to pivoting sport commonly 6 to 9 months.
How long is recovery after ACL and meniscus surgery together?
The meniscus repair rather than the ACL sets the early pace, so the more protective of the two plans is followed for the first 6 weeks. Return to pivoting sport is commonly 9 to 12 months, and is criteria-based rather than fixed to a date.
Is recovery different for a meniscal root repair?
Yes, it is the most protected of the repairs. Expect restricted weight-bearing for around 6 weeks, no deep bending under load for about 3 months, and a return to sport nearer 9 months.
Will I have a brace?
Yes usually for 6 weeks.
When can I run?
Commonly 10–14+ weeks, if swelling is settled, mechanics are good, and strength/control criteria are met.
When can I return to sport?
Usually after 6 months, criteria-based. Cutting and pivoting sports may sit at the later end.
Why is repair slower than a trim (meniscectomy)?
Repairs protect and preserve the meniscus, which needs time to heal. Though recovery is slower initially, repairs can offer better long-term joint protection than a trim in suitable tears.
Self-Pay Knee Surgery Pricing
Do I need a GP referral for self-pay?
No. You can book directly.
Will I get a written quote?
Yes—after your consultation and surgical plan, we issue a fixed-price quote so you know the total in advance.
Are imaging and physiotherapy included?
Physiotherapy and aftercare imaging is usually included in the quote. Please check the specific quote carefully for details.
How quickly can surgery be arranged?
It can be arranged very quickly, but subject to pre-operative assessment (which is usually the rate limiting step) and theatre availability. For elective surgery 5 days of antibacterial wash is recommended in order to prevent infection.