I've recommended this procedure because it gives us the best path to getting you back to the activities you love — with minimal disruption to your life. Knee arthroscopy is one of the safest, most effective procedures I perform. I've dedicated my career to helping patients just like you recover fully and return to wellness. We are with you every step of the way.
What Is Knee Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy means "looking inside the joint." Using a thin, pencil-sized instrument fitted with a tiny camera (an arthroscope), Dr. Berkowitz can see, diagnose, and treat problems inside your knee — without making a large cut. It is a well-established, proven technique that has helped millions of patients worldwide recover successfully.
Common Reasons for Knee Arthroscopy
- Torn or damaged meniscus cartilage (a very common, highly treatable issue)
- Loose fragments of bone or cartilage within the joint
- Inflamed or damaged joint lining (synovitis)
- Torn or misaligned ligaments
- Persistent knee pain, swelling, stiffness, or "locking" of the joint
Safety & Track Record
Knee arthroscopy has an excellent safety profile and is one of the most frequently performed orthopaedic procedures in the world. Dr. Berkowitz and our team at Advanced Orthopaedics use the most innovative technology available to make your procedure as safe and comfortable as possible. You are in highly experienced hands.
What Happens on Surgery Day
The procedure typically takes up to half an hour. You will be at the surgery center for approximately 2–4 hours total, then go home the same day. Here is exactly what to expect:
Will It Hurt?
You will not feel anything during the procedure. Afterward, some soreness, swelling, and stiffness are completely normal. Dr. Berkowitz will prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable as you heal. Please do not take additional Tylenol on top of your prescription medications. Apply ice to help with swelling and discomfort.
Your Road to Recovery
Rest at Home
Have a responsible adult stay with you. Keep leg elevated as much as possible. Take prescribed medication. Apply ice.
Dressing Care
Remove the dressing 3 days after surgery, shower, dry thoroughly, then cover each incision with a band-aid.
Follow-Up Visit
Return to Dr. Berkowitz's office. He will review the procedure, remove sutures, and guide your next steps.
Physical Therapy
PT 2–3x per week for 6–8 weeks (unless Dr. Berkowitz advises otherwise). Builds strength and restores motion.
CPM Machine
Use your CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machine at home for 4–6 weeks. A company rep will deliver it to you.
Return to Life
Most patients resume normal activities. Athletes begin sport-specific rehabilitation with guidance from Dr. Berkowitz.
About Your CPM Machine
A CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machine gently and continuously moves your knee while you rest. It significantly accelerates recovery by improving range of motion, preventing the formation of scar tissue (adhesions), and decreasing stiffness. A company representative will contact you after surgery to deliver and set it up at your home. Important: The CPM machine does NOT replace physical therapy — both are essential. If you had an ACL Reconstruction, do NOT use the CPM machine or start physical therapy until Dr. Berkowitz specifically instructs you to.
⚠️ Call Our Office Immediately If You Experience:
- Fever above 101°F
- Excessive bleeding from the incision site
- Chills, persistent nausea, or vomiting
- Rash or allergic reaction
- Excessive swelling or redness around the incision
- Pus or discharge from the incision
- Calf pain, redness, or leg swelling (possible blood clot)
Call us immediately: 718-575-5454
How to Prepare
Pre-Surgery Checklist — tap each item to check off
Prepare Your Home
- Set up a comfortable recovery area; ideally on the ground floor to avoid stairs initially
- Stock up on ice packs (or frozen peas), pillows for elevation, and easy-to-prepare meals
- Place essentials within easy reach: remote, phone charger, water, medication
- Have a responsible adult available to drive you home and stay the first night
- Prepare loose, comfortable clothing — shorts or athletic pants work best
Medications — Important
Inform Dr. Berkowitz of all medications, supplements, and vitamins you currently take. You may be asked to stop certain blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs several days before surgery. Never stop prescription medications without guidance from our office. After surgery, do not take additional Tylenol on top of your prescription pain medication.
Surgery Centers
🏥 Surgicore Surgical Center
550 Newark Ave, Suite 501
Jersey City, NJ 07306
🏥 Fifth Ave Surgery Center
305 East 47th St
New York, NY 10017
Dr. Berkowitz's office will confirm which location your procedure is scheduled at.
Dr. Dov J. Berkowitz, MD
Dr. Dov J. Berkowitz, MD, founder of Advanced Orthopaedics, PLLC, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon who has dedicated his life to healing by providing high-quality medical care and personal attention — before, during, and after surgery. With four decades of experience in orthopaedic medicine, Dr. Berkowitz understands that acute, accident, and sports-related injuries can be incredibly debilitating. He takes a holistic treatment approach to heal each patient's injuries and place them on a path to recovery and long-term wellness.
Training & Background
Dr. Berkowitz began his career in 1983 at the prestigious Mount Sinai Hospital in New York as a Chief Resident of Orthopaedic Surgery. The following year, he completed his fellowship training in arthroscopic surgery — learning from some of the brightest minds in orthopaedic medicine, who inspired him to become the highly respected surgeon he is today.
Areas of Expertise
- Renowned expert in shoulder and knee arthroscopic surgery
- Sports medicine — treating athletes at all levels
- Hip, knee, and hand osteoarthritis
- Acute and accident-related orthopaedic injuries
- Minimally invasive techniques using the latest technology
Recognition
Dr. Berkowitz was recognized with the Vitals Patients' Choice Award and the Compassionate Doctor Recognition for three consecutive years (2012, 2013, and 2014). The Patients' Choice Award is granted to only the top 5% of doctors nationwide annually, honoring the positive impact made on patients' lives. The Compassionate Doctor Recognition is awarded to physicians highly rated for their bedside manner and commitment to treating patients with kindness and respect.
Dr. Berkowitz is a proud member of the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA).
Our Locations
Queens
80-02 Kew Gardens Rd, 5th Floor
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
Brooklyn
50 Court St, 11th Fl, Suite 1108-09
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Bronx
2356 University Ave
Bronx, NY 10468
Long Island
1570 Old Country Rd
Westbury, NY 11590
Ask Us Anything
Our AI assistant — trained on Dr. Berkowitz's actual surgical instructions — can answer your questions about the procedure, recovery, preparation, and more. For urgent concerns, call us at 718-575-5454.