@momma2lucy
A good ice machine is an essential part of the early recovery process. Ice packs don't stay as cold and don't provide periodic compression.

The Rolls Royce of ice machines is the NICE machine. If you can find a rental and it is affordable, that is the one to get. My surgeon provided me with a two week rental of the NICE machine four years ago when he replaced my left hip. Seven months ago he provided me with a two week rental of the Game Ready machine for my right total knee replacement. It worked equally well but was less convenient as it did need ice and the NICE machine did not.