15 Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Knee Replacement in India

Most patients leave surgical consultations having asked almost nothing. The patients who recover best are the ones who arrived prepared. This guide gives you the 15 questions that matter — covering surgeon experience, implant choice, robotic surgery, complication rates, recovery milestones, flying home, and post-operative support — with what a good answer sounds like and what to watch out for.

By Gaf Healthcare Editorial Team

2026-05-08

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<div class="trust-bar"> <span>✅ <strong>Medically Reviewed</strong> — GAF Healthcare Orthopaedic Team</span> <div class="t-div"></div> <span>📅 <strong>Updated:</strong> May 2026</span> <div class="t-div"></div> <span>🕐 <strong>12 min</strong> read</span> <div class="t-div"></div> <span>🌍 <strong>50+ countries</strong> served</span> </div>

<span class="article-label">Orthopedics · Patient Guide</span> <h1>15 Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Knee Replacement in India</h1> <p class="deck">Most patients arrive at a surgical consultation and say yes to whatever they are told. The patients who recover best are the ones who arrived prepared — who asked the right questions, understood the answers, and made decisions based on information rather than assumption. This guide gives you those questions.</p>

<div class="qa-box"> <div class="qa-head">⚡ The 15 Questions — Organised by Category</div> <div class="qa-cats"> <div class="qa-cat g"><div class="qa-clabel">🩺 Surgeon Experience</div><div class="qa-cval">Questions 1–3 · Validate who is operating on you</div></div> <div class="qa-cat g"><div class="qa-clabel">🔩 Implant & Technique</div><div class="qa-cval">Questions 4–7 · Understand what goes into your knee</div></div> <div class="qa-cat g"><div class="qa-clabel">⚠️ Risk & Complications</div><div class="qa-cval">Questions 8–10 · Know what can go wrong and how it's managed</div></div> <div class="qa-cat a"><div class="qa-clabel">🏃 Recovery & Return</div><div class="qa-cval">Questions 11–13 · Plan your return home correctly</div></div> <div class="qa-cat a"><div class="qa-clabel">🌍 International Patient</div><div class="qa-cval">Questions 14–15 · Specific to travelling abroad for surgery</div></div> </div> <p class="qa-note"><strong>How to use this guide:</strong> Read each question and the explanation of why it matters before your consultation. The "Good answer" sections tell you what an experienced, honest surgeon sounds like. The "Watch out for" sections identify responses that should prompt further probing — or reconsideration.</p> </div>

<div class="wa-center"> <a href="https://wa.me/919044346292?text=Hello%2C%20I%20want%20to%20prepare%20for%20my%20knee%20replacement%20consultation%20in%20India" class="wa-btn" target="_blank"> <svg width="18" height="18" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="#fff"><path d="M17.472 14.382c-.297-.149-1.758-.867-2.03-.967-.273-.099-.471-.148-.67.15-.197.297-.767.966-.94 1.164-.173.199-.347.223-.644.075-.297-.15-1.255-.463-2.39-1.475-.883-.788-1.48-1.761-1.653-2.059-.173-.297-.018-.458.13-.606.134-.133.298-.347.446-.52.149-.174.198-.298.298-.497.099-.198.05-.371-.025-.52-.075-.149-.669-1.612-.916-2.207-.242-.579-.487-.5-.669-.51-.173-.008-.371-.01-.57-.01-.198 0-.52.074-.792.372-.272.297-1.04 1.016-1.04 2.479 0 1.462 1.065 2.875 1.213 3.074.149.198 2.096 3.2 5.077 4.487.709.306 1.262.489 1.694.625.712.227 1.36.195 1.871.118.571-.085 1.758-.719 2.006-1.413.248-.694.248-1.289.173-1.413-.074-.124-.272-.198-.57-.347m-5.421 7.403h-.004a9.87 9.87 0 01-5.031-1.378l-.361-.214-3.741.982.998-3.648-.235-.374a9.86 9.86 0 01-1.51-5.26c.001-5.45 4.436-9.884 9.888-9.884 2.64 0 5.122 1.03 6.988 2.898a9.825 9.825 0 012.893 6.994c-.003 5.45-4.437 9.884-9.885 9.884m8.413-18.297A11.815 11.815 0 0012.05 0C5.495 0 .16 5.335.157 11.892c0 2.096.547 4.142 1.588 5.945L.057 24l6.305-1.654a11.882 11.882 0 005.683 1.448h.005c6.554 0 11.89-5.335 11.893-11.893a11.821 11.821 0 00-3.48-8.413z"/></svg> WhatsApp — Ask Anything Before Your Consultation </a> <div class="wa-sub">Arabic · English · Russian · +91 90443 46292</div> </div>

<div class="prose"> <p>The consultation with your surgeon is the single most important conversation of your entire treatment journey. It determines what happens inside your knee, how you recover, and what your life looks like for the next decade or two.</p> <p>And yet most patients leave consultations having asked almost nothing. They nod at the surgeon's recommendation, feel reassured by the hospital's reputation, and sign the consent form.</p> <p>The questions below are not about distrusting your surgeon. They are about becoming an informed participant in your own care — which consistently leads to better outcomes, fewer surprises, and a more honest conversation about what surgery can and cannot deliver. For background on what outcomes to expect, see our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-success-rate-india">knee replacement success rate guide for India</a>.</p>

<div class="callout info"> <div class="callout-icon">💡</div> <p><strong>A note on asking questions:</strong> Every surgeon at India's leading hospitals — <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/apollo-hospitals-new-delhi">Apollo Delhi</a>, <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/fortis-memorial-research-institute-gurgaon">Fortis FMRI Gurgaon</a>, <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/medanta-the-medicity-gurgaon">Medanta Gurgaon</a>, <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/max-super-speciality-hospital-saket">Max Saket Delhi</a> — welcomes informed patients. Questions are a sign of engagement, not suspicion. A surgeon who becomes defensive or dismissive when asked about their experience or outcomes is giving you very useful information. For a detailed comparison of these hospitals, see our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/best-hospitals-knee-replacement">best hospitals for knee replacement in India</a> guide.</p> </div> </div>

<div class="q-section-label">🩺 Surgeon Experience — Questions 1 to 3</div>

<div class="q-card red-flag"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">1</div> <div class="q-text">How many total knee replacements have you personally performed — and how many in the last 12 months?</div> <div class="q-badge">🔴 Essential</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Surgeon volume is the single most evidence-backed predictor of outcomes in joint replacement surgery. Hospitals performing 500+ knee replacements annually have lower infection rates, fewer complications, and better functional outcomes than lower-volume centres. The same logic applies to individual surgeons. A surgeon who performs 200+ knee replacements per year will achieve more consistent implant alignment than one who performs 50. Read the full evidence on this in our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-success-rate-india">knee replacement success rate guide</a> — and see how India's highest-volume surgeons compare globally in our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/best-hospitals-knee-replacement">best hospitals comparison</a>.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "I have performed over 2,000 knee replacements and currently do approximately 300 per year." Specific numbers, no hesitation.</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: Vague responses like "extensive experience" or "many years in the field" without a specific number. Any number below 100 total procedures should prompt a request for a second opinion.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card red-flag"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">2</div> <div class="q-text">What is your personal infection rate for knee replacement surgery?</div> <div class="q-badge">🔴 Essential</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is the most serious complication after knee replacement. At high-volume, JCI-accredited centres, infection rates should be below 1%. The benchmark for world-class orthopaedic programmes is 0.5–0.8%. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-success-rate-india">success rate and outcomes guide</a> covers published infection rate benchmarks at India's JCI hospitals — and how they compare to the UK and USA — in detail.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "Our published infection rate is below 0.7%." A surgeon who tracks this and can cite it is operating in an institution that takes infection prevention seriously.</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "We have very few infections" or "I cannot recall any problems." The absence of a specific tracked figure is itself a red flag. High-volume centres measure everything.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card important"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">3</div> <div class="q-text">Where did you train, and do you hold any fellowships or international certifications in orthopaedics?</div> <div class="q-badge">⚠️ Important</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">India's leading orthopaedic surgeons at JCI-accredited hospitals trained at internationally recognised institutions — often including programmes in the UK, USA, Germany, or Australia. Many hold fellowships from the Royal College of Surgeons, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, or equivalent bodies. GAF Healthcare's pre-consultation briefing verifies surgeon credentials for every patient before the consultation appointment — see the callout below.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: Specific training institutions named, fellowship credentials cited, membership of recognised professional bodies mentioned.</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: Training described only in general terms without specific institutions. Most senior consultants at Apollo, Fortis, Medanta, and Max have internationally verifiable credentials and will share them readily.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-section-label">🔩 Implant & Technique — Questions 4 to 7</div>

<div class="q-card red-flag"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">4</div> <div class="q-text">Which implant brand and model will you use — and why is this the right choice for my anatomy and age?</div> <div class="q-badge">🔴 Essential</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">You have a right to know exactly what goes into your knee before you consent to surgery. The implant brand, model, and specific components determine your implant certificate — which you will carry for the rest of your life. The recommendation should be based on your specific anatomy, activity level, age, and whether you have any metal sensitivity. For a complete breakdown of every major implant brand available in India — Stryker, Zimmer, DePuy, Smith+Nephew, Conformis — and who each one suits, read our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-implants-india">full implant guide for international patients</a>.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "I will use the Stryker Triathlon in a size 3 femoral component. I have chosen this because of your age and activity level — it has the strongest 20-year outcome data and is compatible with MAKO robotic guidance."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "We use a good implant." "The hospital decides." "It is standard." Any response that avoids naming the specific brand and model — or provides one only after prompting — is inadequate. Use our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-implants-india">implant comparison guide</a> to understand what a specific answer should look like.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card important"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">5</div> <div class="q-text">Are you recommending conventional surgery or robotic guidance — and what is your specific clinical reason for that recommendation?</div> <div class="q-badge">⚠️ Important</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Robotic surgery (MAKO or equivalent) is not appropriate for every patient — nor is conventional surgery inferior in all cases. The recommendation should be based on your specific anatomy, the complexity of your case, and the surgeon's high-volume experience with that system. Before your consultation, read our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/robotic-vs-traditional-knee-replacement">robotic vs traditional knee replacement guide</a> — it explains exactly what MAKO does, who benefits most, and what the cost premium is. The <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/robotic-knee-replacement">full MAKO robotic guide</a> covers which hospitals in India have the system.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "Given your slight varus deformity, I am recommending MAKO robotic guidance because it allows me to plan the correction with greater precision. I have performed over 400 MAKO cases."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: Robotic surgery recommended without a specific clinical justification. Or conventional surgery recommended for a complex case with no explanation. Either recommendation without the surgeon's specific case volume for that technique.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card standard"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">6</div> <div class="q-text">Will you resurface my kneecap (patella), and what is your standard practice on this?</div> <div class="q-badge">✅ Standard</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Patellar resurfacing — replacing the undersurface of the kneecap with a polyethylene button — is one of the most debated decisions in knee replacement surgery. Some surgeons routinely resurface; others selectively resurface based on intraoperative findings. Evidence is mixed on whether routine resurfacing improves outcomes. Knowing your surgeon's practice helps you understand their approach and ensures you are not surprised when you review your operation report.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: A clear, specific answer — "I routinely resurface because of data showing reduced anterior knee pain" or "I selectively resurface based on the patella surface condition I find intraoperatively."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: Uncertainty or inability to explain the practice. This is a standard question with a standard decision framework at every high-volume centre.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card standard"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">7</div> <div class="q-text">What anaesthesia will be used, and will I have a nerve block for post-operative pain control?</div> <div class="q-badge">✅ Standard</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Modern knee replacement pain management combines spinal anaesthesia with a nerve block — adductor canal block, periarticular injection, or femoral nerve block — that provides excellent pain control for the first 12–24 hours. This allows physiotherapy to begin earlier and reduces opioid requirements. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-recovery-week-by-week">week-by-week recovery guide</a> explains how pain management on day one affects the entire recovery trajectory.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "We use spinal anaesthesia with an adductor canal block and periarticular injection. This is our standard protocol and allows physiotherapy to begin the next morning comfortably."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: General anaesthesia routinely used without a clear reason. No nerve block in the pain management plan — this is now standard of care at high-volume centres.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-section-label">⚠️ Risk & Complications — Questions 8 to 10</div>

<div class="q-card red-flag"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">8</div> <div class="q-text">Is my case straightforward, or is there a specific complexity you are anticipating?</div> <div class="q-badge">🔴 Essential</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Knee replacement is not the same operation in every patient. Severe deformity, prior knee surgery, unusual bone geometry, significant obesity, or poorly controlled comorbidities all increase surgical complexity. An honest surgeon will identify these factors and discuss them. This is especially relevant if you are considering whether <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/total-vs-partial-knee-replacement">total versus partial replacement</a> is appropriate, or whether <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/bilateral-knee-replacement">bilateral surgery</a> is safe for your health profile.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "Your case is mostly straightforward, but your medial compartment has more bone loss than usual. I will plan for a slightly larger tibial component and may need a metal augment intraoperatively."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "This is very simple, no concerns" — for a patient with severe deformity or prior surgery. Simplicity should prompt further questions, not reassurance.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card important"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">9</div> <div class="q-text">What are the most likely complications for my specific case, and how would each be managed?</div> <div class="q-badge">⚠️ Important</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">For an international patient who will fly home in 3 weeks, knowing the infection warning signs, DVT symptoms, and which complications require immediate return to India versus local management is directly practical. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-success-rate-india">outcomes guide</a> covers complication rates at JCI hospitals in detail. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-recovery-week-by-week">recovery timeline guide</a> has a specific red-flags section listing exactly which symptoms require same-day emergency assessment.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "The main risks for you are DVT — managed with anticoagulation and Doppler ultrasound before flying — and infection. Wound infection signs are increasing redness and warmth. If you see these after returning home, go to your local emergency department and call us immediately."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "Complications are very rare, do not worry." This is unhelpfully dismissive for an international patient who needs the warning signs before boarding a 9-hour flight.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card important"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">10</div> <div class="q-text">What is your revision rate — and what proportion of your patients require re-operation within 5 years?</div> <div class="q-badge">⚠️ Important</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">At high-volume centres, revision rates within 5 years should be below 3–5%. A surgeon who tracks outcomes — as all quality centres do — can give you a figure. This is a quality metric. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-success-rate-india">success rate guide</a> covers published revision and implant survival data for India's JCI hospitals and how they compare to the UK National Joint Registry and Swedish registry benchmarks.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "Our 5-year revision rate is approximately 2.1%. We track all outcomes through our departmental database and publish them annually."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "I cannot recall needing to revise any patients" or inability to provide any figure. High-volume surgeons see revision cases — the question is how often and why.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-section-label">🏃 Recovery & Return Home — Questions 11 to 13</div>

<div class="q-card red-flag"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">11</div> <div class="q-text">When will you clear me to fly home — and what specific criteria determine that decision?</div> <div class="q-badge">🔴 Essential for International Patients</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">This is the most practically important question for an international patient. Flying too early significantly increases DVT risk. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-recovery-week-by-week">week-by-week recovery timeline guide</a> covers the week 3–4 fitness-to-fly assessment in detail — what criteria surgeons apply, what the Doppler ultrasound involves, and what the flight protocol should be for long-haul travel. Read it before your consultation so you know exactly what the answer should contain.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "I clear patients to fly when: the Doppler shows no DVT, the wound is fully healed and dry, walking is safe with a stick, and flexion is above 90°. For long-haul flights over 6 hours, I prefer to wait 4–6 weeks."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "You can fly home after 2 weeks" without any mention of a Doppler scan. Any timeline that does not include specific clinical criteria — not just a calendar date.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card important"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">12</div> <div class="q-text">What degree of flexion and what walking distance should I expect at 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months?</div> <div class="q-badge">⚠️ Important</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Recovery follows a trajectory with measurable milestones. A surgeon who gives you specific targets — "90° by Week 2, 110° by Week 6, walking without a stick by Week 4–6" — is giving you the information to monitor your own recovery and identify when you fall behind. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-recovery-week-by-week">week-by-week recovery guide</a> has the full physiotherapy milestone table — including the ROM targets for every stage from day one through month six. Print it and bring it to your consultation.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "By 3 months, most of my patients are walking without a stick and have 110–120° of flexion. By 6 months, most are doing light recreation — cycling, swimming, golf. Full recovery is 6–12 months."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "It depends" without any guidance. Recovery does vary — but a surgeon with outcome data can give you a realistic range.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card standard"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">13</div> <div class="q-text">What activities will I be able to return to — and what should I permanently avoid to protect the implant?</div> <div class="q-badge">✅ Standard</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Implant longevity is partly determined by how the patient uses their new knee. High-impact activities accelerate polyethylene wear and reduce implant lifespan. Understanding the permanent restrictions before surgery allows you to make an informed decision. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-recovery-week-by-week">recovery guide</a> covers the month 3–6 return-to-activity phase in detail — including which activities are typically cleared and when.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "You can return to walking, swimming, cycling, golf, and light hiking. I advise permanently avoiding running on hard surfaces, heavy impact sports, and deep full squats beyond 120°."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "You can do anything after recovery." This is not accurate for any total knee replacement. Some activity restriction is always appropriate to maximise implant longevity.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-section-label">🌍 International Patient Specific — Questions 14 to 15</div>

<div class="q-card red-flag"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">14</div> <div class="q-text">How do I reach you or your team if I have a concern after returning home — and what is your policy for remote follow-up?</div> <div class="q-badge">🔴 Essential for International Patients</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Once you fly home, your access to your Indian surgeon is entirely dependent on what communication channel they are willing to support. For specific guidance on what post-operative red flags to watch for — wound changes, DVT signs, fever — our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-recovery-week-by-week">recovery guide's red flags section</a> gives the complete list. GAF Healthcare's standard service includes a 24-hour WhatsApp contact for clinical queries and coordinated video follow-up at 6 weeks and 3 months — these should be confirmed at your consultation.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "My patient coordinator's WhatsApp is available 24 hours. For clinical concerns after you leave, send a photo of the wound or a description of the symptom and we respond within 4 hours. Your local doctor can also contact our team directly."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: "Your local doctor will manage everything after discharge." This is inadequate as a general policy for an international patient returning to a different healthcare system.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="q-card red-flag"> <div class="q-header"> <div class="q-num">15</div> <div class="q-text">What does my implant certificate say — and will a copy be permanently retained in your hospital records?</div> <div class="q-badge">🔴 Essential</div> </div> <div class="q-body"> <div class="q-why">Why This Matters</div> <div class="q-explanation">Your implant certificate is the most important document you leave India with. It specifies the exact brand, model, component sizes, fixation method, and batch number of every piece of hardware inside your knee. Any future orthopaedic surgeon anywhere in the world needs this document. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-implants-india">implant guide</a> explains what your certificate should contain for each major brand — use it to verify that the information you are given at discharge is complete.</div> <div class="q-good-answer">✅ Good answer: "Your implant certificate will be prepared before discharge. It specifies the Stryker Triathlon size 3 femoral component, size 3 tibial tray, and 9mm insert. A copy is permanently filed in our records and entered in the national implant registry."</div> <div class="q-red-answer">⚠️ Watch out for: Uncertainty about the implant certificate process or a promise to "have someone send it later." Request it in person before leaving the hospital — it should be in your standard discharge paperwork.</div> </div> </div>

<div class="prose"> <h2>Your Pre-Consultation Checklist</h2> <p>Print this and take it to your surgical consultation. Use the checkboxes to track which questions you have asked and which answers you still need. Our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-guide">complete knee replacement guide for international patients</a> covers the full planning process — including what to do before, during, and after your consultation.</p> </div>

<div class="checklist"> <div class="cl-head">✅ Pre-Consultation Checklist — 15 Questions</div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q1.</strong> How many TKRs have you performed personally — and how many last year?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q2.</strong> What is your personal infection rate for knee replacement?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q3.</strong> Where did you train and do you hold international fellowship credentials?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q4.</strong> Which implant brand and model will you use — and why?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q5.</strong> Are you recommending conventional or robotic surgery for me — and why?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q6.</strong> Will you resurface my kneecap — and what is your standard practice?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q7.</strong> What anaesthesia and nerve block protocol will be used?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q8.</strong> Is my case straightforward, or is there a specific complexity you anticipate?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q9.</strong> What are the most likely complications for my case — and how would each be managed?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q10.</strong> What is your revision rate within 5 years?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q11.</strong> When will you clear me to fly home — and what criteria determine that?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q12.</strong> What flexion and walking targets should I expect at 3, 6, and 12 months?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q13.</strong> What activities can I return to — and what must I permanently avoid?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q14.</strong> How do I contact your team after returning home — and what is the response time?</span></div> <div class="cl-item"><div class="cl-box"></div><span><strong>Q15.</strong> What does my implant certificate say — and is a copy filed in your records?</span></div> </div>

<div class="callout tip"> <div class="callout-icon">✅</div> <p><strong>GAF Healthcare pre-consultation briefing:</strong> Before your in-person consultation at any of our partner hospitals, we provide a written summary of your surgeon's credentials, case volume, published infection rate, and the implant system they use most. This means you arrive at the consultation already informed. <a href="https://wa.me/919044346292">WhatsApp us</a> to arrange your pre-travel consultation today.</p> </div>

<div class="prose"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq"> <div class="fq"> <div class="fq-q">Will my surgeon be offended if I ask these questions?</div> <div class="fq-a">No — and if they are, that is itself important information. Every surgeon at <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/apollo-hospitals-new-delhi">Apollo Delhi</a>, <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/fortis-memorial-research-institute-gurgaon">Fortis FMRI Gurgaon</a>, <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/medanta-the-medicity-gurgaon">Medanta Gurgaon</a>, and <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/hospitals/max-super-speciality-hospital-saket">Max Saket Delhi</a> has answered these questions many times. A surgeon who becomes uncomfortable when asked about their infection rate or case volume is not operating from a position of confidence in their own outcomes data. For independent validation of which hospitals have the strongest documented programmes, see our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/best-hospitals-knee-replacement">best hospitals guide</a>.</div> </div> <div class="fq"> <div class="fq-q">Can I ask these questions before I arrive in India — during a remote consultation?</div> <div class="fq-a">Yes — and this is the best way to do it. GAF Healthcare arranges pre-travel remote consultations with your surgeon via video call before you book your flights. This allows you to go through these questions, review your imaging together, and confirm the surgical plan before committing to travel. Read our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-guide">complete India knee replacement guide</a> for the full planning sequence — from first contact through to flying home.</div> </div> <div class="fq"> <div class="fq-q">What if I do not understand the answer to one of these questions?</div> <div class="fq-a">Ask the surgeon to explain it differently — and keep asking until you understand. Your GAF Healthcare coordinator is also available during consultations and can help translate medical terminology into plain language. Our related guides — including the <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-implants-india">implant guide</a> and the <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-success-rate-india">outcomes guide</a> — are written specifically to give you the background knowledge to understand surgical conversations.</div> </div> <div class="fq"> <div class="fq-q">What if I am not satisfied with the answers I receive?</div> <div class="fq-a">Request a second surgical opinion. GAF Healthcare can arrange an independent assessment from a different senior consultant at the same or a different hospital. See our <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/best-hospitals-knee-replacement">best hospitals comparison</a> for the alternative options — Apollo, Fortis, Medanta, Max, Artemis, and Kokilaben all have senior consultants available for second opinion consultations. A surgeon who actively discourages a second opinion is giving you very useful information about their confidence in their own recommendation.</div> </div> </div>

<h2>Related Guides</h2>

<div class="related-section-head">Planning and Preparation</div> <div class="related-grid"> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-guide" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Complete Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Knee Replacement in India — Full International Patient Guide</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/best-hospitals-knee-replacement" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Hospital Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Best Hospitals for Knee Replacement — All Compared</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-cost" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Cost Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Knee Replacement Cost in India — City-by-City Breakdown</div> </a> </div>

<div class="related-section-head">Implants and Surgery Type</div> <div class="related-grid"> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-implants-india" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Implant Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Stryker, Zimmer, DePuy, Conformis — Full Implant Comparison</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/robotic-vs-traditional-knee-replacement" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Decision Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Robotic vs Traditional Knee Replacement — Is MAKO Worth It?</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/robotic-knee-replacement" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Robotic Surgery</div> <div class="rel-title">MAKO Robotic Knee Replacement in India — Full Guide</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/total-vs-partial-knee-replacement" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Decision Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Total vs Partial Knee Replacement — Which Do You Need?</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/partial-knee-replacement" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Procedure Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Partial Knee Replacement India — Eligibility and Cost</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/bilateral-knee-replacement" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Procedure Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Bilateral Knee Replacement — Both Knees, One Trip</div> </a> </div>

<div class="related-section-head">Outcomes and Recovery</div> <div class="related-grid"> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-success-rate-india" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Outcomes</div> <div class="rel-title">Success Rate in India — Infection Rates, Implant Survival, Surgeon Volume</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/blogs/knee-replacement-recovery-week-by-week" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Recovery Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Recovery Week by Week — Day 1 to Month 6, Red Flags</div> </a> </div>

<div class="related-section-head">International Patient Guides</div> <div class="related-grid"> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-uk-us-patients" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Patient Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">UK and US Patients — GBP/USD Savings, NHS Waiting List</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-nigeria" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Patient Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Nigerian Patients — Visa, Cost in Naira, Hospitals</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-kenya" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Patient Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Kenyan Patients — e-Visa Online, KES Cost, Flights</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/knee-replacement-gcc-iraq" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">Patient Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">GCC and Iraqi Patients — Arabic Support, USD Pricing</div> </a> </div>

<div class="related-section-head">City Guides</div> <div class="related-grid"> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/delhi/knee-replacement-guide" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">City Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Knee Replacement in Delhi NCR — Apollo, Fortis, Medanta, Max</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/mumbai/knee-replacement-guide" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">City Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Knee Replacement in Mumbai — Kokilaben, Fortis, Nanavati</div> </a> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/orthopedics/india/hyderabad/knee-replacement-guide" class="rel-card"> <div class="rel-label">City Guide</div> <div class="rel-title">Knee Replacement in Hyderabad — Apollo, Medicover</div> </a> </div>

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<div class="cta"> <h3>Arrive Prepared. Leave Confident.</h3> <p>GAF Healthcare provides a written pre-consultation briefing for every patient — your surgeon's credentials, case volume, infection rate, and implant system — before you leave home. So you spend your consultation on the questions that matter for your specific case. Send your reports and we'll set up your pre-travel consultation within <strong>24 hours</strong>. No fees.</p> <a href="https://gafhealthcare.in/treatments/total-knee-replacement" class="cta-btn">Book My Pre-Travel Consultation →</a><br> <a href="https://wa.me/919044346292?text=Hello%2C%20I%20want%20to%20prepare%20for%20my%20knee%20replacement%20consultation%20in%20India" class="wa-btn" style="margin-top:12px;display:inline-flex;" target="_blank"> <svg width="16" height="16" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="#fff"><path d="M17.472 14.382c-.297-.149-1.758-.867-2.03-.967-.273-.099-.471-.148-.67.15-.197.297-.767.966-.94 1.164-.173.199-.347.223-.644.075-.297-.15-1.255-.463-2.39-1.475-.883-.788-1.48-1.761-1.653-2.059-.173-.297-.018-.458.13-.606.134-.133.298-.347.446-.52.149-.174.198-.298.298-.497.099-.198.05-.371-.025-.52-.075-.149-.669-1.612-.916-2.207-.242-.579-.487-.5-.669-.51-.173-.008-.371-.01-.57-.01-.198 0-.52.074-.792.372-.272.297-1.04 1.016-1.04 2.479 0 1.462 1.065 2.875 1.213 3.074.149.198 2.096 3.2 5.077 4.487.709.306 1.262.489 1.694.625.712.227 1.36.195 1.871.118.571-.085 1.758-.719 2.006-1.413.248-.694.248-1.289.173-1.413-.074-.124-.272-.198-.57-.347m-5.421 7.403h-.004a9.87 9.87 0 01-5.031-1.378l-.361-.214-3.741.982.998-3.648-.235-.374a9.86 9.86 0 01-1.51-5.26c.001-5.45 4.436-9.884 9.888-9.884 2.64 0 5.122 1.03 6.988 2.898a9.825 9.825 0 012.893 6.994c-.003 5.45-4.437 9.884-9.885 9.884m8.413-18.297A11.815 11.815 0 0012.05 0C5.495 0 .16 5.335.157 11.892c0 2.096.547 4.142 1.588 5.945L.057 24l6.305-1.654a11.882 11.882 0 005.683 1.448h.005c6.554 0 11.89-5.335 11.893-11.893a11.821 11.821 0 00-3.48-8.413z"/></svg> WhatsApp +91 90443 46292 </a> </div>

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