Dr Julian Yu is a specialist orthopaedic surgeon offering patellofemoral knee replacement for patients in which only the patella (kneecap) is replaced.

What is a patellofemoral knee replacement?

Patellofemoral knee replacement, also known as kneecap replacement, is a type of partial knee replacement where only the damaged area between the kneecap (patella) and the thigh bone (femur) is replaced. This procedure is typically recommended when arthritis or damage is limited to the front of the knee, rather than affecting the entire joint.

Who is a candidate for a patellofemoral knee replacement?

  • Arthritis limited to the front of the knee (patellofemoral arthritis)
  • Other parts of the knee are healthy
  • Non-surgical treatments like medication, injections, or physiotherapy have had limited success
  • Physically active and looking for faster recovery than with a total knee replacement

Benefits of a kneecap replacement

Compared to total knee replacement, patellofemoral replacement has several benefits:

  • Smaller incision and less tissue damage
  • Faster recovery time
  • Less blood loss during surgery
  • More natural knee movement
  • Better preservation of healthy bone and cartilage

What happens during a kneecap replacement?

The procedure usually takes about 1–2 hours. Dr Yu will:

  • Make a small incision is made at the front of the knee.
  • Remove the damaged cartilage and bone in the patellofemoral compartment
  • Place a plastic component on the underside of the kneecap and a metal component on the femur to recreate the joint surface.


Once the new parts are in place, Dr Yu checks knee motion before closing the incision.

After a kneecap replacement

Most patients can go home the same day or the next. You’ll begin walking with support shortly after surgery. A physiotherapist will guide you through gentle exercises to regain strength and motion.

Most people return to normal daily activities within 4–6 weeks. Low-impact activities like walking, cycling, and swimming are encouraged.

Risks of partial knee replacement surgery

As with any surgery, there are some risks, including infection, blood clots, stiffness or instability, loosening of the implant and wear of the replacement parts. Some patients may need further surgery if arthritis develops in other parts of their knee.

For all appointments and enquiries, please phone (02) 8045 5688

Monday to Friday   9am–5pm

  Frenchs Forest

Peninsula Orthopaedics
Suite 20, Level 7
Northern Beaches Hospital
105 Frenchs Forest Rd
Frenchs Forest NSW 2086

  Chatswood

Orthopaedic & Arthritis Specialist Centre
Level 2, Gallery Arcade
445 Victoria Avenue
Chatswood NSW 2067

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