Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the natural hip joint with artificial implants. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, and recovery can take up to 12 weeks. Most patients live comfortably with their hip replacement for the rest of their lives.
What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is a type of joint replacement procedure in which the natural hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant to restore function and relieve pain.
Signs you may need a hip replacement
You may need hip replacement surgery if hip-related symptoms make it difficult or unsafe to carry out your everyday activities. Persistent hip pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion are the most common reasons people consider undergoing a hip replacement.
Any condition or injury that damages the hip joint can lead to these symptoms, though hip arthritis is the most common cause. Before recommending surgery, your healthcare provider will likely suggest other treatment options such as medications, physical therapy, or the use of assistive devices like a cane or walker.
Types of hip replacements
An orthopedic surgeon may replace either part or all of your hip joint, depending on your condition:
Total Hip Replacement: The surgeon replaces the entire hip joint with a prosthetic implant, including the top of the thigh bone (femoral head) and the hip socket. This is the most common type of hip replacement surgery.
Partial Hip Replacement: In this less common procedure, only a portion of the hip joint is replaced. It’s typically performed to treat certain hip fractures or remove specific types of tumors.
Treatment Details
How should I prepare for a hip replacement?
Before your hip replacement surgery, your surgeon will conduct a physical examination and order a few tests. They’ll discuss your symptoms and assess your current range of motion. Be sure to inform your surgeon about all the medications and supplements you’re taking.
During the exam, your surgeon will compare your affected hip with the healthy one, asking you to move it in various directions. These movements help evaluate the strength and function of the muscles supporting your hip and leg.
Before your hip replacement surgery, you’ll likely need to undergo several tests to ensure you’re healthy enough for the procedure. These may include:
Blood tests (such as a basic metabolic panel)
Hip X-rays
Urinalysis (to check for infections or other issues)
In some cases, your surgeon may also recommend additional imaging or diagnostic tests, such as:
CT scan
MRI
EKG (electrocardiogram) to assess your heart function
What happens during hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement surgery typically involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: You’ll receive regional anesthesia, which numbs the lower part of your body without putting you completely to sleep. This type of anesthesia is often called a spinal or spinal block.
Joint Preparation: Your surgeon will remove the damaged bone and cartilage from the affected hip joint.
Implant Placement: The artificial hip, usually made of metal, plastic, or ceramic components, is then inserted and securely positioned.
Closure: Once the prosthesis is in place, your surgeon will close the incision with stitches or surgical staples.
Hip replacements usually take one to two hours. Your surgeon will tell you how long your surgery will take based on the type you need.
What are the potential benefits and risks of this procedure?
Hip replacement surgery is generally very successful, with most patients experiencing a significant reduction in pain and stiffness. Once recovery is complete, you can expect improved mobility, making it easier to walk, climb stairs, and perform other physical activities.
However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. Although complications are rare, they may include:
Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism)
Fractures or broken bones around the prosthesis
Infections at the surgical site or around the implant
Prosthesis complications, such as loosening, wear, or dislocation
Joint stiffness that may limit movement
Recovery and Outlook
What happens after hip replacement surgery?
Your anesthesiologist will ensure you wake up safely from anesthesia and that no immediate complications arise after surgery.
Most hip replacement procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can usually go home the same day. In some cases, you may need to stay overnight for extended recovery monitoring.
Within 24 hours after surgery, your surgeon or physical therapist will guide you through gentle stretches and exercises to begin regaining strength and flexibility in your hip and leg. They’ll also monitor your ability to sit, stand, and move safely.
Be sure to ask your surgeon or physical therapist for advice on navigating your home after surgery. They can teach you how to:
- Bathe or shower
- Get dressed
- Go to the bathroom
- Sit down and stand up
- Use stairs
- Walk and move
What is the recovery time?
Recovery from a hip replacement typically takes several months and includes a few months of physical therapy.
Most people can use their new hip without major restrictions after six to twelve weeks, though this can vary. During this period, you’ll perform exercises designed to strengthen and stretch the muscles around your hip joint, gradually regaining your ability to walk, climb stairs, and bend comfortably. Over time, your strength and range of motion will continue to improve.
While older adults—especially those over 70—may take longer to recover, healing time varies from person to person. Age alone doesn’t determine recovery speed; overall health, fitness level, and commitment to physical therapy play a big role.
The best indicator of progress is how you feel. As you advance through rehabilitation, you should notice improved movement, less discomfort, and greater ease in using your hip compared to before surgery.
What things shouldn’t you do after this procedure?
After your surgery, your care team will provide you with a list of specific dos and don’ts to help ensure a safe recovery. In general, avoid the following:
Crossing your legs or ankles
Driving until your surgeon confirms it’s safe
Pulling your knees higher than your waist
Twisting your legs or ankles too far inward or outward
Remember, everyone’s recovery is different, and these restrictions are temporary. Your surgeon will guide you on when it’s safe to resume normal movements and activities, including driving.
How long does a hip replacement last?
Prosthetic hip implants used in hip replacement surgeries are generally long-lasting, and many people keep them for the rest of their lives.
Although it’s uncommon, some patients may require additional hip surgeries in the future. Your surgeon will provide guidance on what to expect over time.
When should I call my healthcare provider?
Contact your surgeon right away if you notice any of the following after a hip replacement:
- Bleeding or other drainage at your surgery site
- Discoloration or redness around your surgery site
- Drainage or pus at your surgery site (especially if it has a foul odor)
- Severe pain
- Swelling
