I had a total knee replacement on my right knee last April. I was only 46 at the time but had severe arthritis and the doctor said my knee was in the condition of someone in their 70's!!
I had the operation done with a spinal anaesthetic so wasn't "out cold", very surreal being just numb from the waist down but better for post op recovery. I was worried about being able to hear what was going on in theatre but they let me take my ipod in and that was great, couldn't hear a thing!

I had my operation on the tuesday and came home on the saturday, had to get a 90 degree bend and manange stairs first. They get you out of bed the day after the op to get moving.

I was allowed to drive again after my 6 week check up and was back at work after 11 weeks off, I probably would have gone back earlier but I had to drive 60 miles a day and the doctor advised me to build up slowly. Don't think I did too badly though!

I have just had a check up and everything is fine, don't go back for another year now. I'm not a big sport player but I did like to go walking and have had my walking boots on and been out and about and it's great having no aches and pains again. I did get some on my left side after the surgery as my body was walking differently again but not now and its great!

I would recommend rubbing in lavender oil once it has healed properly, it really helps to get it smooth and less tight. I have been only holiday twice since the op and wearing shorts doesn't bother me, I forget it's there at times.

I do win the contest for the longest scar in our house and I set off the machines at the airport which makes everyone laugh!

It was the best thing that happened to me as I had been in pain for years before it was diagnosed.

I wish you luck and if you have any questions don't hestiate to ask and I will try and answer. If you just want some support then drop me a line too.

hope I've been of some help.