What happens during a hip replacement? Demystifying the process
Hip pain can quietly take over daily life, from struggling to put on shoes to avoiding walks you once enjoyed. For many people with advanced arthritis or significant joint damage, hip replacement can offer lasting relief and a return to comfortable movement. However, surgery is rarely the first step. Treatments such as physiotherapy, weight management, pain-relieving medication, and joint injections are often explored first, particularly for hip osteoarthritis.
As Mr Jerome Davidson, Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Hip Surgeon, explains, “Undergoing a private hip replacement means that your care is completely tailored to you, and that you’re well informed at every stage and involved in making decisions about your health. My role as a specialist hip surgeon is not only to perform surgery when it’s needed, but to guide you through every available option, and plan treatment around your lifestyle, goals and long-term joint health.”
When hip replacement does become the right choice, understanding the process can make it feel far less daunting. Mr Jerome Davidson feels that when patients are well informed, they are better equipped for both surgery and the recovery journey. He supports a collaborative approach, where patients are involved in decision-making and understand their choices, rather than decisions being made solely for them.
In this article, we explain the typical process for undergoing a hip replacement with a specialist. However, every case is different and your needs may differ from those of other hip surgery patients. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to book a consultation.
Why choose a specialist for your hip replacement
A hip replacement is a major operation that can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, and outcomes are closely linked to careful planning. Mr Jerome Davidson specialises in minimally invasive hip surgery, and primary and revision hip replacements, with excellent outcomes and high patient satisfaction. He offers:
- Detailed pre-operative planning using advanced imaging
- Modern surgical techniques designed to minimise tissue disruption
- Careful data-based implant selection to complement your anatomy and activity level
- Close follow-up and structured rehabilitation guidance
Private care also allows flexibility in scheduling surgery around work, family commitments and recovery support at home, helping the entire experience feel more manageable and personal.
Before hip replacement surgery: Assessment and preparation
Your hip replacement journey begins with a thorough consultation. This is where your symptoms, lifestyle and expectations are discussed in depth.
You will usually undergo:
- A full review of your medical history
- X-rays (and sometimes further scans) to assess joint damage
- Blood tests and other investigations
You should tell your surgeon about all medications you take, including supplements. Some medicines may need to be paused before surgery. If you have conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, these will be carefully managed to make surgery as safe as possible.
You’ll also be given clear fasting instructions, typically avoiding food and drink for several hours before your operation. If you smoke, you may be advised to stop prior to surgery, and to continue to avoid smoking during and after recovery.
During your consultation, your surgeon will be able to clear up any questions you may have about the procedure.
During a hip replacement procedure
A hip replacement usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes. It is most commonly performed under a spinal anaesthetic, which numbs the lower half of the body. Many patients also receive a sedative so that they feel relaxed and comfortable. If spinal anaesthetic isn’t suitable, a general anaesthetic can be used instead.
Mr Davidson adds: “For some patients anaesthetic is a cause of anxiety and their experience will stay with them long after the surgery. Ensuring my patients are both informed and as comfortable as possible is a really key part of my approach to care. As such, I work with very highly regarded anaesthetists to support positive experiences for each and every patient.”
These experienced professionals are adept at keeping patients relaxed and calm, and managing side effects like nausea and pain relief.
Once you are anaesthetised, a typical surgery proceeds as follows:
An incision is made at the front, side or back of the hip, depending on the chosen surgical approach. Muscles and soft tissues are gently moved aside to reach the joint. Mr Jerome Davidson uses a minimally invasive approach that supports faster recovery.
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The worn femoral head (the ball of the joint) is removed from the socket.
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Damaged cartilage and bone are cleared from the hip socket. A new artificial socket, called an acetabular cup, is placed securely into position.
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The inside of the femur is shaped to hold the stem, which is fixed in place either with surgical cement or a special surface that bonds with your bone.
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A new artificial ball is attached to the top of the stem, creating a smooth, stable new hip joint.
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Mr Davidson can use robotic technology which can improve the precision and accuracy of implant positioning, giving you peace of mind.
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The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches and skin glue then covered with a sterile dressing.
Immediately after surgery
You will be supported while recovering immediately after surgery. A drip may provide fluids and pain relief. Most patients stay in the hospital for between one night. During this time, your pain will be managed with medication; measures are taken to reduce the risk of blood clots (such as blood thinning medication and compression stockings); and you will begin moving the joint early, often standing or taking a few steps on the day of surgery.
A physiotherapist will guide you in walking with a frame or crutches, and show you how to move safely, including getting in and out of beds and chairs, and ascending or descending stairs.
Recovery after hip replacement
Recovery in the first few weeks
Recovery varies from person to person, but most people make steady progress over the first 6 to 8 weeks, with continued improvement for up to a year.
At home, it’s important to:
- Keep the wound clean and dry and check it regularly for signs of infection
- Stay lightly mobile to reduce stiffness and swelling
- Perform your physiotherapy exercises exactly as prescribed
- Avoid extreme positioning of the leg in the early weeks after surgery
You might need to avoid driving for a short period of time until your surgeon confirms it is safe (usually about 4 to 6 weeks).
The long-term outlook
The aim of hip replacement surgery is to relieve pain, improve mobility and help you return to normal daily activities with confidence. Most modern hip replacements last many years, especially when combined with maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and following professional advice.
Read our article on hip replacement recovery for a detailed breakdown of what to expect from week to week.
Reassurance at every stage
It’s completely natural to feel anxious before surgery. A key part of specialist care is making sure you feel informed, prepared and supported throughout. From your first consultation to your final follow-up, the goal is not just a successful operation, but a smooth, confident journey back to comfortable movement and living life on your terms.
To receive expert advice and a tailored treatment plan, consider booking a consultation with Mr Jerome Davidson, who can assess your condition and guide you towards the most appropriate next steps for your hip health. Your wellbeing and peace of mind is our priority.
Book now using our online service, or by calling 020 8168 0111.