Hi Aussie123, firstly you are correct in that it is advisable to have a reconstruction as you are very likely to damage the Wikipedia reference-linkmeniscus if you don't. That would lead to early onset of degenerative changes to the articular cartilage of the bone and could lead to arthritis/arthrosis a little early than usual.

Thing is you are having an operation, either a general anesthetic or a spinal block. Also perhaps a graft from the hamstring. You'll have a fair amount of pain meds in the system following, knee swelling, a drain (24hrs probably). All in all you'll be feeling groggy for the first few days to a week. You simple won't be there mentally for work within 7 days.

I would think though that if you are super keen you could begin to work on the laptop in the second week. This would be better from home where you have access to keeping the leg up and you'll have a lot of exercises to do to get the leg moving again. Plus regular physio during the week.

I would say the ability to have a total week off, then work from home via the laptop for about 3 further weeks would be best.

The idea of a few days unfortunately isn't realistic. For a meniscal operation and clean-out perhaps but not for a reconstruction. The are drill holes in your bones you know and that takes a good 6 weeks to heal up.

Hope this helps and I am sure others have some comments. Do remember a job is just that. The health of your knees are of life long importance.