Take it from another Jean that just had a second knee replacement on the same knee.....about three weeks and you'll be back at your sewing machine! You'll have some swelling but that happens even when you aren't doing anything. You only have to stay on the pain meds as long as you feel the need for them so don't stay on them too long! I only stayed on them for about a week and then off totally. It is what you make it and with a positive attitude and doing your PT exercises for range of motion you will be just fine!!