[AF Doc]

TFS --

First I should say that this is not my area of expertise. Given that though, the usual course is to start physical therapy shortly after the operation--think hours not days. A reasonable goal is to be up using a walker or crutches in 4-6 weeks or sooner. Moving under your own steam or with a cane in 6-8 weeks. You won't be at 100% yet, but return to modest activity is not out of the question.

Here's the fine print though: "your mileage may vary." Different factors can affect your recovery time. Most important is your will and discipline to do the assigned physical therapy. Somewhere I heard an old adage about the surgeon being only as good as the patient's physical therapy. Not entirely true, but not entirely wrong. As you are a QP, I don't see a problem here.

Most patients are warned that recovery can take up to 6 months. So hold off on booking that skiing holiday in Switzerland just yet. The key is to do the physical therapy--there are no short cuts. Just like life, eh?

Remember, once your new hinges are installed, you can expect to get 10-15 years service out of them. But ask your surgeon what you can realistically expect given your overall health.

Here's wishing you good health and a quick recovery!