Thane, Maharashtra – May 26, 2025 – Knee pain, whether from arthritis, injury, or wear-and-tear, can be debilitating. As the number of patients opting for knee replacement surgery continues to rise, one common dilemma remains: should patients go for bilateral knee replacement (both knees at once) or single knee replacement (one knee at a time)? Local experts in Thane weigh in to help patients make informed decisions.
According to Dr. Amit Deshmukh, widely regarded as one of the best orthopedic surgeons in Thane, the answer depends on multiple factors including a patient's age, overall health, and the extent of joint damage. “Each case is unique,” says Dr. Deshmukh. “While some patients are ideal candidates for bilateral procedures, others may benefit more from a staged approach.”
Understanding the Difference
Single Knee Replacement, also known as unilateral replacement, involves replacing just one knee joint. It’s typically recommended for patients whose knee pain is isolated to one leg or those who may not be fit for a more extensive procedure.
Bilateral Knee Replacement involves replacing both knees during the same surgery. This method can be more efficient for patients with severe joint issues in both knees, offering a single recovery timeline and a quicker return to normal mobility.
“Patients often ask which procedure is less painful or has a quicker recovery,” explains Dr. Reena Shah, a respected orthopedic doctor in Thane. “With bilateral replacement, the recovery is more intense initially, but it eliminates the need for a second surgery down the line.”
Factors to Consider
The decision between bilateral and single knee replacement isn’t just medical—it’s also personal. Experts recommend evaluating the following:
Overall health: Bilateral procedures are more suitable for younger, healthier patients.


Recovery support: Patients must have strong family or home support for rehabilitation.


Severity of symptoms: If both knees are equally affected, bilateral surgery can be a practical solution.


Dr. Deshmukh adds, “We take into account not just x-rays or MRIs, but how the pain is affecting daily life. Our aim is to offer the best quality of life post-surgery.”
Accessing the Right Expertise
Finding the right surgeon plays a critical role in successful outcomes. Patients in the Thane region are fortunate to have access to a growing number of highly skilled specialists.
If you're exploring your options, consider consulting a board-certified orthopedic doctor in Thane who specializes in joint replacement. Whether you're leaning toward a bilateral procedure or want to understand if a single knee replacement is safer for you, getting a tailored assessment is key.
What Patients Can Expect
Post-surgery, physical therapy is vital. While single knee replacement generally requires about 3–6 months of recovery, bilateral procedures can take longer but save patients from a second operation and additional downtime in the future.
“The long-term success of knee replacement—whether single or bilateral—depends heavily on proper rehabilitation and follow-up care,” says Dr. Shah.
Knee replacement surgery, when done at the right time and by the right hands, can restore mobility, independence, and quality of life. For those dealing with chronic knee pain in both legs, bilateral replacement may be worth considering. But it’s a decision best made with guidance from an experienced medical team.
For more information or to book a consultation with the best orthopedic surgeon in Thane, contact:
Thane OrthoCare Center
Phone: +91-8097555941
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://kaushalyahospitalthane.com