Post Meniscus Surgery Recovery TimeMeniscus surgery is a typical procedure for small tears in the meniscus of the knee and recovery timeline can vary from person to person based on injury, type of surgery done and your general health position.
Recovery Overview
Meniscectomy: This surgical option involves removing the torn part of your meniscus. Recovery is almost always quicker, with most patients returning to light activities 1-2 weeks later. Recovery to full may take more 4-6 weeks during which there is a normal progression of sports.
Refix Meniscus: A more sophisticated surgery where the torn meniscus is sutured back together. It has a longer recovery time ranging from 3 to 6 months before return to high-impact activities. After surgery, patients will need crutches for 4 to 6 weeks and must adhere to a rigorous physical therapy program.
Meniscus Implant: When the meniscus is extensively decayed, you may need a replacement surgery. The recovery time can range anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending on healing speeds and compliance with rehabilitation plans.
Factors Influencing Recovery
Surgery Type-Meniscectomy has a quicker recovery time compared to Repair or Replacement.
How Active You Are: If you have a more physically demanding profession you may need longer to recover than if your job is sedentary.
Individual Health: Healing may be affected with preexisting health conditions, age or overall number of complications.
These timelines are useful for setting expectations with patients who are considering surgery so they have a better understanding regarding when to return back to work and how long it may take before they can engage in physical activities.
