What is the quickest possible recovery time after knee surgery for a torn meniscus?

The quickest recovery time after knee surgery for a torn meniscus is a month, although several months may elapse before a patient can return to full physical activity that includes heavy stress on the knee. More specific timetables for particular activities depend on the success of rehab, according to WebMD.

While open surgery is an option for the surgeon, an arthroscopic procedure is more common because it is less invasive. The surgeon slides a narrow tube (the arthroscope) inside the incision, using a camera and light to guide the insertion of small implements to complete the operation. Arthroscopic surgery reduces recovery time significantly, as stated by WebMD.