ACL Reconstruction

At Core Alliance, we offer advanced ACL reconstruction to help restore knee stability, prevent long-term damage, and support your return to the active life you love.

Expert ACL Reconstruction Regain Knee Stability and Confidence

At Core Alliance, we specialize in advanced orthopedic procedures that restore movement, relieve pain, and help you return to an active lifestyle. ACL reconstruction is a key solution for patients with ligament tears that affect the stability and function of the knee joint.

Dr. Aron Rovner and our experienced team perform this procedure with a minimally invasive approach whenever possible, combining clinical precision with compassionate care. Schedule your consultation today to find out if ACL reconstruction is the right path forward.

What Is ACL Reconstruction?

ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure that repairs a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), one of the primary stabilizers of the knee.

The ACL connects the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shinbone), and when torn, it can result in joint instability, pain, and an increased risk of future injuries.

Rather than stitching the torn ligament back together, reconstruction replaces the damaged ACL with a graft—typically using tissue from the patient’s own hamstring or patellar tendon, or from a donor. This restores the ligament’s function and allows patients to regain knee strength and stability. The procedure is typically performed arthroscopically using small incisions and a camera for precision and faster recovery. ACL reconstruction is especially common among athletes, but it can be essential for anyone with significant ACL damage that affects day-to-day movement.

Benefits of ACL Reconstruction

Rebuilding the ACL not only restores stability but also protects the knee joint from further injury. Undergoing this procedure at Core Alliance can offer all of the following benefits:

Improved Knee Stability

ACL reconstruction restores the knee’s structural support, reducing episodes of buckling or giving out.

Enhanced Athletic Performance

For athletes, this procedure allows a safer return to sports and physical activity.

Reduced Risk of Future Injury

Repairing the ligament reduces the likelihood of additional meniscal tears or cartilage damage.

Minimally Invasive Approach

When done arthroscopically, ACL reconstruction involves less trauma to the surrounding tissue and smaller scars.

Long-Term Joint Health

By stabilizing the joint, reconstruction can prevent early-onset osteoarthritis.

Customized Graft Selection

Surgeons can tailor the graft choice to meet the patient’s needs, anatomy, and activity level.

Who Is a Good Candidate for ACL Reconstruction?

You may be a strong candidate for ACL reconstruction if you have a complete or partial ACL tear that’s causing instability in your knee. Common signs include the knee buckling during activity, swelling, and loss of full motion. Many patients are athletes or active individuals who want to return to sports, but anyone with persistent knee instability after conservative treatments (like physical therapy) may benefit. Surgery is typically recommended if the injury is accompanied by other structural damage (like meniscal tears), or if the patient wishes to avoid long-term complications. After a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, imaging studies, and lifestyle goals, we’ll help you determine if ACL reconstruction is appropriate.

Your Consultation

During your consultation at Core Alliance, Dr. Rovner will conduct a thorough evaluation of your knee and review your MRI or other imaging results. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, activity level, and goals. We’ll walk you through graft options, surgical technique, and expected outcomes to help you make an informed decision. For added flexibility, you have the option to choose between a virtual or in-person consultation.

“Dr. Rovner is the best. He is quick and efficient at getting to the root of the issue and, more importantly, getting you whatever help you need. Definitely recommend.”

– Orlando Perez

Schedule A Consultation Tailored Solutions for Every Spine

What to Expect During ACL Reconstruction

ACL reconstruction is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. The surgery typically lasts one to two hours. Dr. Rovner begins by making a few small incisions around the knee to insert the arthroscope and surgical instruments. The damaged ACL is carefully removed, and the chosen graft (autograft or allograft) is prepared and inserted through tunnels drilled into the femur and tibia.

Once in place, the graft is secured with screws or other fixation devices.

After the graft is anchored, the incisions are closed, and the knee is dressed and braced. Most patients return home the same day with post-op instructions and a physical therapy plan already in place.

What Is the Recovery Like After ACL Reconstruction?

Recovery timelines vary, but most patients begin walking with crutches and a brace shortly after surgery. Physical therapy begins within the first week to regain motion and strength.

Initial Recovery (0–2 weeks): Focus on pain control, swelling reduction, and gentle motion.
Rehabilitation (2–12 weeks): Progressive strengthening, weight-bearing, and range-of-motion exercises.
Advanced Recovery (3–6 months): Rebuilding stability and function through neuromuscular training.
Return to Sports: Most patients resume full sports activity between 6 and 9 months, depending on healing and strength progress.

Following your rehab plan closely is essential to ensure graft integration and long-term knee health.

How Much Does ACL Reconstruction Cost?

The cost of ACL reconstruction can vary depending on insurance coverage, surgical complexity, and graft type. Core Alliance accepts most major insurance providers and can help verify your benefits during your consultation. Our team will provide a cost estimate and discuss financial options based on your personalized treatment plan.

Alternatives to ACL Reconstruction

Not every ACL tear requires surgery. Non-surgical options include:

Physical Therapy: Strengthening the surrounding muscles can improve stability for some patients.
Bracing: Knee braces may help stabilize the joint during activity.
Activity Modification: Avoiding pivoting sports or high-risk movements can reduce symptoms.

However, for active individuals or those with instability despite conservative care, reconstruction often provides the best long-term outcome.

Why Choose Core Alliance?

At Core Alliance, your care is led by Dr. Aron Rovner, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon with decades of experience in minimally invasive techniques. Our approach emphasizes customized treatment, advanced surgical technology, and supportive recovery planning to help you return to what matters most. Take the next step toward knee stability and schedule your consultation with Core Alliance today.

Frequently Asked Questions ACL Reconstruction

How long does the ACL graft take to heal?

The graft typically takes between 4 and 6 months to fully incorporate into the bone tunnels and function like a normal ligament.

What kind of graft is best for me?

Your graft type will be chosen based on your age, activity level, anatomy, and personal preferences. Dr. Rovner will help guide your decision during your consultation.

Will I need physical therapy after ACL reconstruction?

Yes, a structured rehabilitation program is essential for restoring strength, range of motion, and knee function.

Can ACL tears heal on their own?

Complete ACL tears do not typically heal on their own because the ligament has a limited blood supply. Partial tears may be managed non-surgically depending on symptoms.

When can I return to driving?

Most patients can resume driving within 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, depending on which leg was operated on and whether they are taking pain medications.