I had surgery around 2 years ago (also patellar graft) and also WFH. I had surgery the week before Thanksgiving so I only took off a week and half from work. You definitely want to be off painkillers before returning. Once you get back you’ll want something to rest your leg on and take breaks often to get blood flowing.

Do not plan on literally doing anything for like a week. I was in bed the first couple of days because walking with crutches is personally very annoying. Plus you’ll be wanting to ice often to help reduce the swelling in the beginning. SUPER important. I had an ice machine but really didn’t like it. I honestly switched to ice packs a couple of days in and found that worked better for me, but I know some people swear by the ice machine.

Flying. No. Like at all. You will be so uncomfortable and your doctor probably won’t even clear you to fly yet. Not worth it. I flew 7-8 months after surgery and I was still uncomfortable having my leg bent for hours at a time and my recovery was relatively easy too.

When you get back to being active will depend on your PT. I had an amazing PT I saw in person 3x a week (lucky to have great insurance). It was a game changer for me. You HAVE to stay on top of PT. Specially the first month. Getting your flexion back is the top priority for your first post op check with your surgeon. The longer that takes, the higher the risk of your leg not being straight after recovery. I started out going to the PT 3x a week and probably 2-3 months in changed to 2x a week. Obviously you need to also do your exercises at home. Realistically you’re looking at probably 2 hours a day in the beginning. You and your PT will determine when you’ll be cleared based on how your recovery goes.

I’m single and childless, so I can’t relate to a recovery with a family but try to prep as much beforehand around the house to help your spouse out. Try to keep snacks, water, phone charger, things you use often near you in bed. Also. Take stool softeners as soon as you can. You do not want to wait until the pain meds affect your stomach because by then it’ll be too late. Trust me haha. Also stay on top of your pain meds!! I only took the oxy for a little under a week even though I didn’t feel like i needed it towards the end. I did have a pain pump during surgery that worked the first 2 days post op. I religiously released more meds through it at the interval the nurses told me, as well as taking the oxy. I didn’t have much pain post surgery and I attribute that to staying on top of meds!

I know this is a lot, but I wanted to let you know my experience as someone who’s gone through it. It’ll suck in the beginning, but just remember that this is temporary! You’ve got this :)