What to Expect After Robotic Subvastus Knee Replacement: A Realistic Recovery Timeline

If you are considering knee replacement surgery, you probably have one big question above.

The answer depends on the surgical approach, your overall health, and the precision of the procedure. At my practice in Franklin, Tennessee, I perform robotic-assisted total knee replacement using the subvastus approach—also called the SubV technique.

This combination—muscle-sparing subvastus and robotics like the Mako system—is designed to help you recover faster, with less pain and a quicker return to movement.

Let's walk through exactly what you can expect week by week.

Day of Surgery: Out of Bed, On Your Feet

Most patients are up and walking the same day as surgery. Because the subvastus approach preserves the quadriceps, you do not have the same weakness that often follows traditional knee surgery.

Expect to walk with a walker or cane with the help of your physical therapy team before going home.

Typical goals before discharge:

• Full weight-bearing with assistance
• Bend the knee to at least 90 degrees
• Climb a few stairs with support
• Manage pain with oral medication

Week 1: Swelling, Sleep, and Small Wins

This is the toughest week—but also where the benefits of robotic subvastus surgery start to show.

Patients typically experience:

• Pain and swelling around the incision
• Sleep disruption for the first few nights
• Increasing independence with walking
• Ability to do basic daily tasks like dressing and showering

Many tell me they feel more stable, less sore, and stronger than expected—especially compared to stories they have heard from friends who had traditional surgery.

Week 2 to 3: Walking Further, Sleeping Better

You will notice a shift during this window. Swelling goes down. Your motion improves. You may switch from a walker to a cane—or no device at all for short walks at home.

Most patients by the end of week 3 can:

• Walk unaided indoors
• Go up and down stairs
• Sleep through the night
• Ride in a car comfortably
• Return to part-time work (desk jobs) or light errands

Week 4 to 6: Back to Work and Real Life

This is where recovery accelerates. You are walking without assistance, doing physical therapy 2–3 times per week, and regaining confidence.

By the end of week 6, many robotic subvastus patients can:

• Return to full-time desk or light-duty work
• Walk over a mile with minimal discomfort
• Perform household chores
• Drive independently
• Begin light exercise such as biking or swimming

3 Months: Back to Activities You Love

At 12 weeks, most patients feel 80–90% back to normal. The knee may still feel "tight" or stiff at times, but that improves with continued movement and strengthening.

At this stage, many are:

• Traveling comfortably
• Resuming golf, yoga, or long walks
• Enjoying social outings without assistance
• Able to kneel carefully if needed
• Feeling like "it was worth it"

6–12 Months: Full Recovery and Long-Term Success

While most recovery happens in the first 12 weeks, full healing takes time. You will continue to gain strength, balance, and flexibility over the next several months.

Long-term, the benefits of robotic subvastus surgery include:

• Better joint alignment
• Longer implant lifespan
• Lower chance of limping or imbalance
• Less risk of complications

Real Patient Feedback

Here is what I often hear:

"I was walking so fast, my therapist had to slow me down."

"This recovery is nothing like what my neighbor went through a few years ago."

"I was nervous, but this has been easier than I thought."

This is exactly what we aim for with the SubV technique and Mako robotic precision.

What Affects Your Recovery Timeline?

Every patient is unique, but a few factors make a difference:

• Fitness level before surgery
• BMI and joint flexibility
• Commitment to rehab and walking daily
• Managing swelling with ice and elevation
• Nutrition, sleep, and pain control

I guide each patient through a personalized plan that sets the right expectations and keeps you moving forward.

By Cory Calendine, M.D., Hip and Knee Replacement Specialist , Franklin, TN

I perform robotic total knee replacements at our surgical center in Franklin, TN and care for patients across Brentwood, Nashville, Spring Hill, and surrounding areas. If you are searching for a knee replacement expert in Tennessee who uses advanced techniques like SubV with Mako, I would be happy to discuss your options in a personal consultation.