i used an ice machine too after my right knee replacement...(may 4) worked great!!
...i plan to buy a small ice machine before my oct 5th left knee replacement so my wife does not have to go buy ice....our refridge does not put out but a quart of ice cubes before dry, we need an ice machine.
i'd love one like the hotels use but will probably find a cheaper one. the cheap one's you have to remove the ice when ready for the next batch to freeze....not super handy, but in my price range.