I believe (if I remember correctly!) that I was walking unaided within 3-4 wks. Everyone was amazed at my fast recovery myself included. Your recovery also depends on the procedure your surgeon uses as there are 3 different positions a surgeon may choose to place the incision and also how aggressive the post op therapy is. My surgeon had me up and walking within hours of surgery. I would research the ortho doctors available, their methods and patient reviews and if possible choose someone who was referred to you.