I cannot tell you how wonderful total knee was for me. I had it done 7 years ago and never had a post op pain that was any worse than trying to live with the pain before. I would have the other done in a minute if need be. I had a great doctor who told me he expected me to do my part, because if I did not it would make both of us look bad and he does not like to look bad.. I did pre op excerises for 8 weeks and he said I had great muscle tissue for my age (69).
I went to my grandson's wedding in 7 weeks and wore heels most of the evening. I have been on missions trips all over the world since then and have forgotten it is not the knee I was born with. Good luck with your decision! Oh Yes, something else, my anestheologiest who is also a good friend is a strong believer in the "femoral block". By the time you will feel post op pain you are in therapy. The block lasted 48 hours! I am sure that is why I could get up the next morning and shower!