Hip replacement surgery recovery time and what to expect

Each year in the UK, more than 100,000 people undergo hip replacement surgery – a number that continues to rise as the population ages and mobility-related conditions become more common. While the procedure is now routine and highly effective at reducing pain and improving quality of life, many patients are unsure of what to expect during recovery.

Recovery tends to follow three broad stages: the early recovery phase (weeks 1-6), the intermediate phase (weeks 6-12) and long-term recovery, which typically extends to 12 months. Each comes with its own milestones and challenges.

Understanding this recovery timeline is essential for patients preparing for surgery. Know what’s normal and when you’re likely to feel improvements can help you plan ahead, set realistic expectations, and play an active role in your own rehabilitation. 

Mr Jerome Davidson, consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, specialises in performing minimally invasive total hip replacements, particularly with 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. In Mr Davidson’s words, “the direct superior approach involves less soft tissue dissection during surgery, which helps achieve better balance in the joint replacement. A well-balanced joint is more likely to function effectively. In my experience, patients who undergo this method tend to get back on their feet more quickly, begin mobilising sooner, come off crutches earlier, and return to their usual lifestyle activities faster.”

In this article, we’ll walk through each stage of hip replacement recovery and provide guidance on what to expect at every step.

Immediate post-surgery period (First 24-48 Hours)

The first couple of days after hip replacement surgery are important for setting the tone for your recovery. During this time, patients are closely monitored in hospital, begin to regain movement, and are introduced to early rehabilitation exercises. While it’s a period of rest and healing, it’s also the start of a carefully managed return to mobility.

Hospital stay expectations 

Most people remain in hospital for between one and three days following hip replacement surgery. The exact duration will depend on the individual’s age, health, mobility and how well they respond to the procedure.

Pain management is a priority during this stage. Medications are administered to help control post-operative pain, enabling patients to begin gentle movement as soon as possible. The care team will regularly check vital signs, assess the surgical site and monitor for any signs of complications such as blood clots or infections.

Initial mobility assessments are also carried out during this time. These initial evaluations help determine how well the patient can move and what support they’ll need once they leave the hospital.

First steps toward recovery

Physical therapy usually begins on the day of surgery or the day after. A physiotherapist will guide the patient through basic bed and chair exercises aimed at improving circulation and preventing stiffness. These might include ankle pumps, leg lifts and hip abduction.

Most patients can be introduced to walking aids such as a frame, walker or crutches. Learning to use these safely is an essential step in the early recovery process, with therapists providing training and support to help build confidence and stability.

Although progress may feel slow at first, every movement in these early days lays the groundwork for a smoother recovery in the weeks ahead.

Early recovery phase (weeks 1-6)

The early recovery period is about regaining basic independence, managing discomfort and gradually rebuilding strength. While progress can vary depending on the individual and the type of surgery, most people start to feel more confident moving around and carrying out simple tasks within this timeframe.

Week 1-2: Getting home

Returning home after surgery can feel like a big step. It is often a relief to be back in your own space but it’s still essential to follow your surgeon’s and physiotherapist’s instructions closely during these first two weeks to reduce the risk of complications and support healing. Doing daily exercises and wound care are key to supporting a speedy recovery.

• Pain and swelling management: You’ll likely still need regular pain relief. Swelling is normal and can be eased by elevating the leg and using ice packs as advised.
• Wound care: Keep the wound clean and dry, and monitor it for signs of infection such as redness, increased pain levels, or discharge. Most patients won’t need stitches removed, as dissolvable sutures are typically used.
• Activity restrictions and precautions: After surgery, we will not formally restrict your activities. We recommend continuing your normal daily activities but being careful in your movements to avoid extreme positioning of the leg in the early weeks after surgery. Some people may find using a raised toilet can be helpful. 
• Sleep positioning and comfort tips: We don’t recommend lying on the side of your hip replacement side because it will be sore.

Week 3-6: Building strength

As healing continues, the focus shifts towards improving mobility and strength. Many people begin to feel like themselves, but it’s still important not to rush the process.

• Physical therapy progression: Exercises become more targeted at improving joint flexibility, muscle strength and balance. A physiotherapist will usually adjust your programme each week to suit your recovery pace.
• Gradual increase in daily activities: You may begin to take longer walks, tackle light daily tasks and spend more time on your feet. It’s important to listen to your body and rest as needed.
• Return to driving: Most people can resume driving between 4 to 8 weeks post-surgery, depending on your pain levels (you should be nearly pain-free), independence of walking aids, good range of movement and your ability to perform an emergency stop.
• Managing expectations about progress: It’s common to experience fatigue and good days mixed with more challenging ones. Setting realistic expectations and celebrating small wins, like walking unaided or climbing stairs, can keep you motivated.

Intermediate recovery phase (weeks 6-12)

By weeks 6 to 12 after surgery, most patients find they’re moving beyond the basics of recovery and into a phase of increasing independence. While the hip is still healing, this stage is about regaining strength, stamina and confidence – gradually returning to more everyday activities and working towards long-term mobility goals.

Expanding activities

At this stage, many patients begin to resume familiar routines. Desk-based may have up to 6 weeks off work, whereas individuals with more physical jobs often take up to 12 weeks off work. However, this does vary depending on personal circumstances and recovery progress – some may return to work earlier or take longer. 

Daily activities such as doing the washing, light cooking and shopping become easier, but bending, twisting and lifting heavy objects are best approached with care.

Walking distances typically increase during this time, with endurance steadily improving through gentle, regular movement. Low-impact exercises such as using a stationary bike are usually encouraged from around week 2. Swimming is encouraged from around 6 weeks after surgery – though you will need to wait for confirmation from your surgeon. These help build fitness without putting undue strain on the joint.

Physical therapy milestones

Your physiotherapy plan will usually become more dynamic in this phase. Range of motion should continue to improve, and exercises will begin to focus more on strength, particularly in the glutes, thighs and core. These muscles help stabilise the hip and support confident movement.

Balance and stability training may also be introduced, helping to reduce the risk of falls and also improve posture. A key goal during this time is gait normalisation – retraining your body to walk evenly and naturally, without relying on a limp or overcompensating with the opposite leg.

Progress can vary from person to person, but this phase is often where patients start to feel the benefits of surgery in their daily life, with reduced pain, greater mobility and a growing sense of independence.

Long-term recovery (3-12 months)

Hip replacement recovery is often described as a marathon, not a sprint. While the most intense stages of healing take place in the first two months, the long-term recovery phase – between three and twelve months – is when most patients see the full benefits of their surgery. 

Months 3-6: Significant improvements

By 3 months post-surgery, many patients are back to most of their usual activities. It’s not uncommon to resume recreational pastimes, such as gardening, walking longer distances, light cycling or even gentle dancing, provided these are approved by your care team.

During this time, you’ll likely notice continued improvements in strength, flexibility and overall ease of movement. Physiotherapy may taper off or move to more advanced exercises designed to improve joint function and prevent future problems. You may also have follow-up appointments during this period, including X-rays to assess how the joint is settling and to ensure the implant is functioning correctly.

Months 6-12: Full recovery

By the 6-month mark, the majority of patients feel substantially better. Between 9 and 12 months, full recovery is typically achieved. This includes the complete healing of soft tissues surrounding the joint, which allows for more confident, unrestricted movement. 

Some patients may be able to return to higher impact activities in time. Gentle jogging may be returned to 3 months after surgery, squash or tennis 9 months after, skiing usually after 1 year – though this will depend on your individual progress and should only be carried out under professional guidance. Not everyone will be approved to take up or return to high-impact activities, particularly if there’s a risk of implant wear or dislocation. Mr Jerome Davidson says, “I generally do not recommend patients return to contact martial arts after hip replacements, as there is a higher risk of damaging the implant.”

At this point, it’s important to focus on long-term maintenance: keeping up with gentle exercise, managing body weight and protecting joint health. Ongoing strength and flexibility work can help preserve the benefits of surgery and support your mobility for many years to come.

Factors affecting recovery time

Every hip replacement recovery is unique, shaped by personal, medical and lifestyle factors. While most patients follow a general timeline, individual progress can vary significantly.

Individual variables

Your age and general health play a key role in how quickly and smoothly you recover. Younger patients and those in good overall health often regain mobility and independence more quickly than those with chronic conditions or reduced fitness levels. Similarly, if you were active and fit before surgery, you’re likely to find physical therapy and mobility milestones easier to achieve.

The type of hip replacement also matters – your surgeon will discuss which implant is best for you on an individualised basis. Surgical technique is another factor: minimally invasive procedures, such as those used by Mr Jerome Davidson at JD Hips, tend to cause less tissue damage and may result in a faster and less painful recovery. Robot-assisted approaches are also increasingly used to improve accuracy and reduce the risk of complications.

Lifestyle factors

How well you adhere to your rehabilitation plan is just as important as the surgery itself. Consistent participation in physiotherapy, including exercises at home, helps restore strength, flexibility and stability in the joint.

Recovery is also supported by good nutrition and proper hydration, which aid tissue healing and energy levels. Rest is crucial too – both the quantity and quality of your sleep will influence how your body repairs itself. Patients who balance activity with rest typically experience fewer setbacks and more consistent progress.

What to Expect During Recovery

Normal Experiences

Recovering from hip replacement surgery can vary from person to person, but there are some common experiences that most people share. Pain is expected in the early days and typically decreases steadily as healing progresses. This is often accompanied by swelling and bruising around the hip and thigh, which can take several weeks to fully settle.

Many people notice fluctuations in their energy levels during recovery. Feeling unusually tired is normal: your body is using a lot of energy to heal, and rest is just as important as movement. Emotional ups and downs are also common. You may feel frustrated, anxious or low at times, especially in the early stages. These feelings are part of the recovery journey, and talking to your care team or loved ones can help.

Potential complications

While most people recover from hip replacement surgery without serious issues, it’s important to be aware of signs that could indicate a serious problem. Although hip replacement surgery is considered relatively safe and routine, especially with experienced surgeons, there are risks, as with any surgery.

Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness of the skin, heat or discharge at the incision site, or a fever. Symptoms of blood clot include swelling in the leg (especially if it’s more than expected), warmth, redness or sudden shortness of breath, which requires urgent medical attention.

Hip dislocation, though rare thanks to modern techniques and advancements in technology, is still a possibility. You’ll be given advice on how to avoid this, such as not bending the hip too far or crossing your legs. If your hip feels unstable or you hear a pop or experience sudden pain, seek help immediately.

Always contact your healthcare provider if you experience unexpected or worsening symptoms, or if you’re unsure about anything during your recovery.

Tips for optimal recovery

To help your recovery progress smoothly and successfully, here are some dos and don’ts to be aware of.

Checklist for optimal recovery

• Walk regularly, starting with short distances and building up gradually
• Follow your physiotherapy exercises closely
• follow precautions and restrictions, increase activity gradually.

Recovery from hip replacement surgery is a gradual process that looks different for everyone. While it can be frustrating at times, being patient and consistent with your rehab can make all the difference. There may be setbacks or slower days, but these are normal. Progress is rarely linear.

With the right care and commitment, most people go on to enjoy a significant improvement in their quality of life. Pain is reduced, movement becomes easier, and day-to-day activities feel like less of a struggle.

To book a consultation with Mr Jerome Davidson, please call 020 8168 0111 or book online.