Here is the link to the thread about my Bella's experience with luxating patella surgery:
http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/sic...a-surgery.html
It's been three months now, and she has made a full recovery. They recover rapidly once the stitches are out, but you have to make sure they don't jump and re-injure themselves during the recovery period. A lot of confining to a crate or x-pen may be required during the first 8 weeks or so, and the doctor will also have guidelines on physical therapy (exercises and range-of-motion) during the recovery period.
My vet said that the success rate of the surgery is around 90%. Have an experienced veterinary orthopedic specialist evaluate your dog and perform the surgery, if that's the route you take.