I had a full replacement 5 years ago. I was in lots of pain for 12 years prior as it was not recommended as I was too young. I must tell you it is life changing. Prior I couldn't walk very far and I was used to golf, tennis and travel and I couldn't do any of them. Now I do it all.
I will tell you that it is a painful process. I did the surgery at Greenwich Hospital in CT and they were fantastic. I had an epidural which eliminated complications from general. I started therapy immediately after surgery and was in the hospital for 3 days. Went from the hospital to a rehab center for 10 days and had therapy twice per day. I highly recommend that as you are not very mobile after surgery.
I was on Vicodin but personally stopped after 2 weeks. After the rehab center I had therapy three time a week for 6 weeks. Was using a cane for about another 4 weeks after.
So as you can see it is a lengthy process but well worth it. Don't let anybody tell you that it's not painful because it is but worth it.
Best of luck with yours.
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Richard C 
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