Knee replacement surgery is a life-changing procedure for many patients living with chronic knee pain or damage due to injury or arthritis. Whether you’re scheduled for total knee replacement surgery or a partial knee replacement, proper preparation can significantly influence your recovery and long-term outcomes. A strong plan helps relieve pain more effectively, reduces the risk of surgery complications, and makes your transition back to normal activities smoother.
At Kevin McCarthy, MD, we guide patients through every stage of their knee replacement journey. Dr. McCarthy, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in Hollywood, FL, uses advanced Enovis technology and a minimally invasive anterior approach to ensure precision, comfort, and faster recovery. His patient-first approach helps individuals return to the life they love with confidence and mobility.
Below, we share key steps to help you prepare for knee replacement with clarity and confidence.
Preparing Your Body for Surgery
Physical readiness plays a major role in your outcome. Begin with a full medical evaluation by your primary care doctor to assess your overall health and identify risk factors like heart disease or other conditions that could affect your surgery or recovery.
Once cleared, work with your physical therapist to improve muscle strength around the knee joint. Strengthening these muscles supports better joint stability after surgery and can reduce pain. Low-impact exercises like stationary cycling, gentle walking, or aquatic therapy are often recommended. If you’re overweight, losing even a small amount before surgery can decrease pressure on the joint and improve recovery time.
In the days before surgery:
- Stop certain medications (like blood thinners) as directed.
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid any dental procedures before or right after surgery to reduce infection risk.
Your surgical team will also explain what tests are done before knee replacement surgery, which may include X-rays, bloodwork, or EKG to ensure you’re ready for the operating room.
Setting Up a Recovery-Friendly Home Environment
Your recovery truly begins the moment you return home, so preparing your space in advance can make a big difference in your comfort and safety. A well-organized, accessible home environment supports mobility, reduces the risk of falls, and helps you focus on healing.
Here are practical ways to prepare your home before knee replacement surgery:
- Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs, cords, and clutter from walkways.
- Install grab bars or handrails in key areas—especially the bathroom and near stairs—for added stability.
- Use a raised toilet seat and firm chair cushions to make sitting and standing easier.
- Choose a sturdy chair with armrests where you can rest comfortably during the day.
- Keep essentials within reach—place your phone, medications, water, snacks, and remote control on a bedside table or tray near your main resting area.
- Arrange for support from a family member, friend, or caregiver who can help with daily tasks, meals, and errands during the first few weeks.
- Avoid stairs if possible by setting up a temporary sleeping space on the first floor to limit strain during early recovery.
These simple adjustments can ease your transition from hospital to home and help you stay focused on regaining strength, mobility, and independence.
Managing Pre-Surgery Anxiety
Feeling nervous before replacement surgery is natural. Many patients worry about surgery complications, pain, or recovery time. Speaking with your care team about your concerns can provide reassurance.
Dr. McCarthy will walk you through the full surgical process, including the use of Enovis surgical techniques. These advanced systems enhance precision and personalization by using real-time data and digital alignment tools, leading to better outcomes and fewer serious complications.
Understanding the surgery step-by-step, knowing what to expect during your recovery room stay, and asking questions about anesthesia, the incision site, and your hospital timeline can ease fears and set realistic expectations.
Understanding the Surgical Process
During total knee arthroplasty, Dr. McCarthy precisely removes damaged cartilage and bone, then replaces them with a custom-fit artificial joint engineered to restore smooth movement and reduce chronic knee pain. This procedure is performed using Enovis-guided surgical technology, which leverages real-time data and digital alignment tools to ensure optimal implant placement, joint stability, and long-term performance.
Most knee replacements are completed within a few hours. If you're a candidate for same-day surgery, you may be able to return home that evening. In some cases, patients may stay overnight at the hospital or surgery center for observation and support.
After surgery, the recovery process begins immediately with key steps to promote healing and mobility:
- Monitoring for blood clots and other early complications
- Managing pain effectively with prescribed medications
- Initiating physical therapy right away to restore range of motion and prevent scar tissue
Patients are encouraged to begin gentle movement as soon as possible—often the same day—to support circulation, reduce stiffness, and lay the foundation for a smooth and successful recovery.
Why Choose Dr. McCarthy for Knee Replacement?
Dr. Kevin McCarthy is a trusted leader in joint replacement surgery, known for blending cutting-edge innovation with patient-centered care. At his Hollywood, FL practice, every knee replacement is approached with precision, compassion, and the goal of helping you return to the activities you enjoy.
Here’s what sets his care apart:
- Specialization in the Anterior Approach to Knee Replacement: Dr. McCarthy uses an anterior surgical approach, which avoids cutting through major muscles. This technique results in less post-operative pain, faster recovery times, and better range of motion, helping patients get back on their feet sooner.
- Advanced Enovis Knee Replacement Technology: Dr. McCarthy uses Enovis surgical technology, which offers real-time, data-driven alignment tools to guide implant placement. This ensures optimal accuracy, stability, and joint function, making your new knee feel more natural and last longer.
- Individualized Pre and Post-Operative Planning: Every patient receives a personalized surgical plan tailored to their anatomy, activity goals, and medical history. After surgery, Dr. McCarthy and his team closely monitor your recovery and adapt your physical therapy to support strong outcomes.
- A Dedicated and Supportive Care Team: From your first consultation to your final follow-up, you’re supported by a team that values transparency, trust, and comfort. We’re here to answer your questions, manage your concerns, and guide you through every step of your joint replacement journey.
With Dr. McCarthy, you can expect thoughtful guidance, advanced techniques, and a genuine commitment to helping you relieve pain, move better, and regain your quality of life.
Start Strong with Knee Replacement Prep at Kevin McCarthy, MD
Success starts with smart preparation. If you’re looking to minimize risks and maximize comfort before and after total knee replacement, Dr. McCarthy's team is here to help.
Call us at 954-963-3500 or request an appointment online to learn more about how to prepare for knee replacement surgery and receive expert orthopedic care in Hollywood, FL.
