15 things to know before hip replacement surgery

15 things to know before hip replacement surgery

Are you exploring or due to undergo hip replacement surgery? This routine surgery improves the lives of thousands of individuals in the UK each year, many of whom are over the age 50 and suffering from arthritis, injury or other causes necessitating hip surgery. The overwhelming majority of these surgeries are successful, providing much-needed relief from chronic pain and stiffness, and a drastic improvement in quality of life.

Still, a hip replacement is major surgery, so it’s important to know what to expect and how to prepare. Mr Jerome Davidson, Consultant and Orthopaedic Hip Surgeon, explains, “As with any surgery, the right preparation can improve success rates and reduce downtime, allowing you to reap the benefits of your hip replacement sooner. Not only that, but knowing what to expect following the surgery means brief lifestyle changes, such as daily rehabilitation exercises, won’t come as a surprise.”

Here, we explore the practical and physical preparations for hip replacement surgery, and answer commonly asked questions to help you gain a better understanding of the procedure. Please note that each patient is individual, and if you have a question that is not answered here, we recommend booking a consultation with Mr Jerome Davidson here, or by calling 020 8186 0111.

Hip replacement surgery: Commonly asked questions

1. What is hip replacement surgery?

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure where a damaged or worn hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. It is usually recommended when hip pain and stiffness from arthritis, injury or another condition severely affect daily life, and other treatments no longer help.

2. When should I consider having hip replacement surgery?

You might consider surgery if you have:

  • Persistent hip pain that limits walking, climbing stairs or sleeping
  • Stiffness that makes it hard to move comfortably
  • Reduced quality of life despite trying medication, physiotherapy or mobility aids

A surgeon will confirm if your hip damage is severe enough to benefit from replacement.

3. How long does the surgery take?

The operation itself usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes, but you’ll be in theatre longer to allow for preparation, and most people stay in hospital between one and three days after surgery before returning home.

4. What’s the recovery time after hip replacement?

Recovery varies, but most people:

  • Use crutches or a walking frame for two to six weeks
  • Return to normal daily activities within six to 12 weeks
  • See full recovery and strength improvements over six to 12 months

Your physiotherapy plan will be tailored to your needs to help you heal safely. Mr Davidson uses an advanced form of hip replacement surgery called ‘direct superior approach’. This results in a smaller scar, and minimises the impact on muscles and tendons for speedier recovery. Read detailed information about recovery.

5. How long will my new hip last?

Modern hip replacements can last 15 to 20 years or more, depending on your activity level, weight and overall health. Avoiding high-impact sports and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help extend its lifespan.

The surgery to replace a hip prosthesis is called revision or second hip replacement surgery.

6. What are the risks of hip replacement surgery?

All surgery carries some risks. For hip replacement, these include infection, blood clots, dislocation, differences in leg length, nerve injury or wear and loosening of the joint over time. To mitigate these risks, consider opting for a specialist hip surgeon, who will have access to the latest technology and advanced methods, as well as the experience and expertise to improve chances of a successful surgery.

7. Will I be able to do everything I could do before my hip pain began?

Most people experience major improvements in pain and mobility, allowing them to walk, swim, cycle and enjoy many activities again. Mr Davidson generally does not recommend patients return to contact martial arts after hip replacement, as there is a higher risk of damaging the implant.

Practical preparations

8. Consider waiting times

If you are thinking about opting for public healthcare for your hip replacement surgery, keep in mind that wait times can be several months or more, depending on your location and hospital capacity. Going private can reduce waiting times significantly – sometimes to just a few weeks. When deciding which route to take, weigh up your priorities, budget and how urgently you need surgery.

9. Learn all you can in advance

Hip replacements may be common, but they are still classified as a major surgery. Understanding each stage – from anaesthetic, to hospital stay, to physiotherapy – can help you feel more confident and in control. Ask your consultant questions, read reputable resources, and watch patient information videos so that you are not caught off guard by the recovery process.

10. Make adjustments at home

You will be encouraged to become mobile soon after surgery, so it’s worth setting up your home to make it easier and safer for you to get around. Consider:

  • Raising your bed to a comfortable height, or setting up a temporary ground-floor sleeping arrangement to avoid stairs
  • Placing thick cushions on armchairs and sofas to increase seat height
  • Removing trip hazards like loose rugs or trailing cables
  • Positioning essential items – such as your kettle, house phone, medication and regularly consumed foods – at waist height to avoid bending or reaching
  • Installing grab rails or using a shower chair for bathing
  • Using a raised toilet seat

The more prepared your home is, the smoother your first few weeks will be post-surgery.

11. Plan for help

Arrange for a friend, family member or carer to help with shopping, cooking, cleaning or even just moral support in the early week. If you live alone, you might need to plan for supermarket deliveries or pre-cooked meals.

12. Accept that recovery takes work

While most patients notice a dramatic improvement in pain, the first weeks after surgery can be challenging. You’ll need to follow all medical and physiotherapy advice, and rest when required. Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint, but the end result is worth the time and effort.

Physical preparations

13. Strengthen muscles

Your hip joint is supported by muscles in your legs, hips and core. The stronger these muscles are before surgery, the easier it will be to get moving afterwards. Pre-habilitation exercises (designed to build strength before surgery) can include:

  • Seated leg raises
  • Glute squeezes
  • Gentle resistance band exercises
  • Core strengthening moves

Bearing in mind that your mobility may be limited due to the cause of your hip pain (whether that is arthritis, injury or otherwise), be sure to ask a physiotherapist for a tailored programme that you can safely carry out before your operation.

14. Improve overall health

Lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of complications and improve recovery speed. Consider:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight. This reduces strain on your new hip and improves surgical outcomes.
  • Quitting smoking. Smoking can slow healing and increase infection risk.
  • Improving cardiovascular fitness. Gentle walking, swimming or cycling can help improve stamina.
  • Eating a balanced diet. Aim for natural sources of protein for muscle repair, and calcium and vitamin D for bone health. Supplement where required.

15. Address any other health conditions

If you have diabetes, heart disease or other ongoing medical issues, work with your healthcare provider to ensure they are well-controlled before surgery. This can help to lower your risk of complications.

Hip replacement surgery: What to do next

Hip replacement surgery is a major procedure, which is why it’s important to feel informed and confident before your surgery approaches. If you have further questions, we highly recommend booking a consultation with a specialist in hip replacement surgery, so that you can fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

Please don’t hesitate to arrange an appointment Mr Jerome Davidson by booking online here, or by calling 020 8186 0111. We wish you a safe and successful surgery.