Is your knee pain stopping you from walking, climbing stairs, or enjoying daily life? If yes, you may need a knee replacement. Many people in Kolkata live with knee pain for years. But they do not have to. Knee replacement surgery can give you your life back.

In this blog, Dr. Siddhant Gupta explains everything you need to know about knee replacement surgery in Kolkata — in simple words.

What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is also called knee arthroplasty. In this surgery, the damaged parts of your knee are removed. Then, they are replaced with artificial parts made of metal and plastic.

These artificial parts work just like your natural knee. As a result, you can walk, bend, and move without pain.

Why Do People Need Knee Replacement?

The most common reason is arthritis. Arthritis slowly damages the knee joint. Over time, the cartilage (the soft cushion inside the knee) wears away. When this happens, the bones rub against each other. This causes severe pain and stiffness.

Other reasons include:

• Osteoarthritis — the most common type in people above 50
• Rheumatoid arthritis — when the immune system attacks the joints
• Post-injury arthritis — damage caused by an old fracture or injury
• Severe knee deformity — when the knee bends inward or outward

Signs That You May Need Knee Replacement

You should see an orthopaedic doctor if:

• Your knee pain is constant and severe
• Pain medicines and physiotherapy are no longer helping
• You cannot walk more than a few minutes without pain
• Your knee is swollen most of the time
• You find it hard to climb stairs or get up from a chair
• Your knee pain disturbs your sleep

However, surgery is always the last option. First, your doctor will try all non-surgical methods. Surgery is only recommended when other treatments have failed.

Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

There are two main types:

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

This is the most common type. The entire knee joint is replaced. It is done when both sides of the knee are damaged.

2. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)

In this type, only the damaged part of the knee is replaced. Therefore, it is a smaller surgery. Recovery is also faster. It is suitable for patients where only one part of the knee is affected.

Your doctor will decide which type is best for you after examining your knee and X-rays.

What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery?

Here is a step-by-step look at what happens:

1. Anaesthesia — You are given anaesthesia so you feel no pain during surgery.
2. Incision — The surgeon makes a cut over the knee to access the joint.
3. Removing Damaged Bone — The damaged bone and cartilage are carefully removed.
4. Placing the Implant — The new artificial joint (implant) is fixed in place.
5. Closing the Wound — The cut is stitched and bandaged.

The entire surgery takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery

Recovery happens in stages. Here is what most patients experience:

Day 1–3 (In Hospital)

• You will be encouraged to sit up and move your leg gently.
• A physiotherapist will visit you and start basic exercises.
• Pain is managed with medicines.

Week 1–2 (At Home)

• You will walk with the help of a walker.
• You must do your exercises daily.
• Swelling and mild pain are normal at this stage.

Week 3–6

• Most patients walk without support.
• Physiotherapy continues at a clinic.
• You can slowly resume daily activities.

Month 3–6

• You feel much stronger and more confident.
• Most patients can climb stairs and move freely.
• Pain reduces significantly.

Month 6 and Beyond

• Usually it takes 6 to 12 months to achieve full recovery.
• Most patients say their quality of life has improved greatly.

How Long Does a Knee Implant Last?

Modern knee implants last 15 to 25 years in most patients. After that, some patients may need a revision surgery. However, with proper care and a healthy weight, your implant can last even longer.

Knee Replacement Surgery Cost in Kolkata

The cost of knee replacement surgery in Kolkata is much lower than in other cities like Mumbai or Delhi.  The final cost depends on the hospital, type of implant, and the patient’s condition. Health insurance and TPA cashless facilities are available at most hospitals in Kolkata.

Why Choose Dr. Siddhant Gupta for Knee Replacement in Kolkata?

Dr. Siddhant Gupta is an experienced orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeon in Kolkata. He uses the latest techniques and high-quality implants. Therefore, his patients recover faster and experience less pain.

He practices at:

• Binayak Hospital, Baranagar, Kolkata
• Mayfair Hospital, North Kolkata

FAQs — Knee Replacement Surgery in Kolkata

At what age can I get a knee replacement?

Knee replacement is most common in people aged 55 to 80. However, if a younger person has severe knee damage, surgery can be done earlier. There is no strict age limit.

Is knee replacement surgery painful?

During surgery, you will not feel anything because of anaesthesia. After surgery, there is discomfort and swelling. But medicines and physiotherapy help manage the pain well. Most patients feel much better within a few weeks.

How long will I stay in the hospital after knee replacement?

Most patients stay in the hospital for 3 to 5 days after surgery. After that, they go home and continue recovery with physiotherapy.

Will I be able to sit cross-legged after knee replacement?

After a total knee replacement, sitting cross-legged or squatting may be difficult. However, with modern implants and good physiotherapy, many patients achieve a good range of movement.

Can I walk normally after knee replacement?

Yes! Most patients walk normally within 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. Full recovery, including climbing stairs and long walks, is usually achieved by 3 to 6 months.

What is the success rate of knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement is one of the most successful surgeries in orthopaedics. The success rate is above 95%. Most patients report a significant reduction in pain and improvement in quality of life.

Is knee replacement covered by health insurance in India?

Yes. Most health insurance plans in India cover knee replacement surgery. You should check your policy details. Cashless TPA facilities are available at many hospitals in Kolkata.

What are the risks of knee replacement surgery?

Like all surgeries, knee replacement carries some risks. These include infection, blood clots, and stiffness. However, serious complications are rare. Your doctor will take all precautions to keep you safe.

Which is the best hospital for knee replacement in Kolkata?

Dr. Siddhant Gupta performs knee replacement surgery at Binayak Hospital (Baranagar) and Mayfair Hospital (North Kolkata). Both offer advanced orthopaedic facilities and experienced care teams.

Final Thoughts

Knee pain should not stop you from living your life. If medicines and physiotherapy are no longer working, knee replacement surgery may be the answer. It is safe, effective, and life-changing for most patients.

So do not wait too long. The sooner you see a doctor, the better your chances of a full and fast recovery.