I am a 66 year old woman who had a knee replaced 6 months ago. I waited as long as I possibly could, considering the pain from osteoarthritis with bone-on-bone in both knees. I still need the other one done but am waiting for the first one to heal to a point where I can depend on it to get me around while the second is not usable.
I got an infection (superficial, they said) after the surgery and was back in the hospital for 3 more days, on IV antibiotics, 2 at a time, followed by home infusion (we did IV at home with the help of home caring nurses), followed by oral antibiotics, 2 kinds for another 3 weeks. It got rid of the infection, but by then, of course, the digestive system is messed up and sleep habits totally messed up, too. Took another 6 weeks to feel somewhat normal.
I still have pain in my knee when going up or down stairs and am having PT for that. Walking is great - no pain. They tell me the knee cap is still adjusting to it's new form and it will just take time. Also have shin splints in that leg - they say from straightening my knee so it pulls muscles in a different way than it was used to. The shin splints don't hurt for walking - only when pressing on tissue along the shin.
They tell me I need to strengthen my ham string muscles to help with navigating stairs. I'm working on it.
I had lost weight before surgery, but gained some back now with all the inactivity. The old knee still bothers a lot, and the new still has a ways to go.
I would suggest talking to others who have had your Dr do their surgery, and get their opinions. Also, physical therapists who have helped the patients after surgery. Success rates mean a lot, I think. It's a huge step to take, and can mean months of recovery if all does not go well. If all goes smoothly, a person can be back to normal in 6 months.
My sister had a partial knee replacement 4 months ago and is doing great.
I wish you the best, and hope all goes well for you.