Top 7 Questions to Ask Your Knee Surgeon Before Surgery in Manchester

Introduction

Undergoing knee surgery can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to. By preparing the right questions in advance, you can feel confident, informed, and in control of your care. As a trusted knee surgeon serving patients in Manchester, I recommend asking these seven important questions before any procedure.

These questions not only help you understand the process but also build trust with your specialist.

1. What Exactly Is the Diagnosis and Why Is Surgery Needed?

Understanding Your Condition

Whether it’s an ACL tear, osteoarthritis, or meniscal damage, your knee surgeon should clearly explain why surgery is the best option and what non-surgical treatments have been considered or tried.

Tip: Bring copies of previous scans or reports to your consultation.

2. What Type of Surgery Will You Perform?

Knowing the Procedure

Not all knee surgeries are the same. Ask if the procedure is minimally invasive (like arthroscopy), reconstructive (like ACL repair), or joint replacement. Knowing what’s being done and why helps manage expectations and recovery planning.

Read more about ACL Reconstruction and Knee Replacement Surgery on our website.

3. What Are the Risks and Benefits of This Knee Surgery?

Understanding Pros and Cons

Every surgery carries some risk. Your knee surgeon should explain potential complications like infection, blood clots, or stiffness. On the flip side, ask about the benefits—relief from pain, improved mobility, and return to activity.

This ensures you give truly informed consent.

You can also refer to the NHS guide on knee surgery for a broader perspective.

4. What Will Recovery Look Like?

Timeline and Expectations

Recovery can vary depending on the procedure and your overall health. Will you need crutches? How long will physiotherapy last? When can you return to work or sport?

At The Knee Clinic Manchester, recovery plans are tailored for each patient’s lifestyle and goals.

5. What Is Your Experience With This Procedure?

Evaluating Surgeon Expertise

Ask your surgeon about their experience. How many of these surgeries have they performed? What are their success and complication rates? This speaks to their credibility and helps build trust.

Mr. Bilal Barkatali has performed hundreds of successful ACL reconstructions and knee replacements.


6. Are There Alternatives to Surgery?

Exploring Non-Surgical Options

A responsible knee surgeon will always discuss non-surgical options if appropriate. These may include physiotherapy, bracing, injections, or lifestyle changes.

If you’ve searched for a private knee specialist near me, you’re likely exploring second opinions or less invasive solutions.

Explore our non-surgical treatments for more options.

7. What Can I Do to Improve My Outcome?

Optimising Recovery Results

Recovery isn’t just about the surgeon’s skill—it’s also about your commitment. Ask about prehabilitation exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle changes to improve your post-op results and overall knee health.

Stronger muscles and a healthier body help speed up healing.

Conclusion

Asking these seven questions helps you take an active role in your care and ensures you're working with a transparent, experienced, and supportive knee surgeon.

At The Knee Clinic Manchester, we believe informed patients experience better recoveries. Book a consultation today to discuss your options with Mr. Bilal Barkatali, an expert in personalised knee treatments.

FAQs

Should I get a second opinion before knee surgery?

Yes, especially for major procedures like knee replacement. A second opinion helps confirm your diagnosis and explore all available treatment options.

How long does it take to recover from knee surgery?

Recovery time varies. ACL reconstruction can take 6–9 months, while total knee replacement may require 12–18 months with physiotherapy.

Is knee surgery painful?

Post-operative pain is common but manageable. Surgeons use anaesthesia and prescribe medications to keep you comfortable during recovery.

What should I bring to my consultation?

Bring previous medical records, imaging results (MRI/X-rays), a list of medications, and your questions. This helps your surgeon assess your condition effectively.

Can I avoid surgery with non-surgical treatments?

In some cases, yes. Physiotherapy, weight management, and injections can delay or eliminate the need for surgery if the condition is caught early.

About the Author

Mr. Bilal Barkatali is a leading knee surgeon in Manchester, specialising in ligament reconstruction and knee replacement surgery. With extensive experience and a commitment to patient-centred care, he is the trusted consultant at The Knee Clinic Manchester.

Location: 170 Barlow Moor Rd, West Didsbury, Manchester M20 2AF, UK

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