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What is a hip replacement?

A hip replacement, also called hip arthroplasty, is a procedure where the damaged parts of your hip joint are replaced with artificial parts. It’s usually recommended if you have severe hip pain from conditions like arthritis that hasn’t improved with other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy.

The goal of hip replacement surgery is to relieve your discomfort, improve how your hip works and help you move better, making it easier for you to return to everyday activities with less pain and more mobility.

couple hiking after recovering from hip replacement surgery

How long does a hip replacement last?

A hip replacement usually lasts at least 15 to 20 years, and likely even longer, depending on the type of implant and your age. Most people keep their implants for life, but in some cases, another surgery might be needed later on.

Types of hip replacement

Your doctor will consider several factors to determine the best type of hip replacement for you, including your overall health and specific needs.

  • Total hip replacement: The surgeon replaces the entire hip joint, including the top of your thighbone (femoral head) and the socket in your pelvis (acetabulum). This is the most common type of hip replacement.
  • Partial hip replacement: This is less common and usually done to fix specific hip fractures or remove certain tumors. Only part of the hip joint is replaced.

Your surgeon will perform either a total or partial hip replacement through:

  • A traditional side, or posterior approach
  • A front, or anterior approach
  • Robotic technology
couple walking their dog after recovering from hip replacement surgery

How do I know if I need a hip replacement?

If hip discomfort is making it difficult to do your daily activities, a hip replacement might be a good option for you. Before considering surgery, most people try less invasive treatments like medication, physical therapy, or using a cane or walker. Your doctor will likely suggest these options first before recommending a hip replacement.

Arthritis is the most common cause of hip pain that leads to a hip replacement. Some of the most common types of arthritis that affect the hip include:

Other conditions that can damage the hip joint enough to require a replacement include:

  • Osteonecrosis
  • Injuries from accidents or falls
  • Hip impingement (femoroacetabular impingement syndrome)
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Benign tumors
  • Cancer
  • Perthes disease
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How to prepare for hip replacement surgery

Before your hip replacement surgery, your surgeon will do a physical exam and run tests to understand your condition better. They’ll ask you about your symptoms and check how well you can move your hip. Be sure to let your surgeon know about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they can affect the surgery.

Your surgeon will compare your damaged hip to the healthy one. They’ll ask you to move your hips in different ways to check how well your muscles and joints are working.

To make sure you’re ready for surgery and to help your surgeon make the best decisions for your treatment, you'll likely need a few tests, including:

  • X-rays: These help the surgeon get clear images of your hip and see how much damage has occurred to the joint.
  • Blood tests: These may include blood counts and a basic metabolic panel (BMP) to check your overall health and make sure everything is functioning properly.
  • Urinalysis: This test checks your urine for any signs of infection or other potential issues.

Depending on your needs, your surgeon may recommend additional tests, like an MRI scan to check the soft tissues around your hip, a CT scan for a closer look at your hip joint, or an EKG to ensure your heart is healthy enough for surgery.

Using tobacco can slow down the healing process, so it's a good idea to stop using tobacco products before your surgery. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor for support and resources.

The hip replacement procedure

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Here’s what you can expect before, during and after hip replacement surgery.

Before the procedure

Before your hip replacement surgery, your doctor will likely ask you to stop eating and drinking for up to 12 hours to ensure your safety during the procedure.

When you check in for your surgery, you'll change into a hospital gown. The medical team will then get you ready for the procedure. You’ll receive one of two types of anesthesia: a spinal block, which numbs the lower half of your body, or general anesthesia, which will put you into a sleep-like state, so you are asleep throughout the surgery.

To help manage pain after the surgery, your surgeon may also inject numbing medicine around the nerves or directly into the hip joint. This will help reduce discomfort as you begin your recovery.

During the procedure

Hip replacements usually take one to two hours. Your surgeon will tell you how long your surgery will take based on which type of hip replacement you’ll need.

During a hip replacement, your surgeon makes a small incision in your thigh to remove the damaged bone and cartilage from the hip joint. They then replace the top of your thigh bone (femur) and the hip socket (acetabulum) with artificial parts.

Most parts used in hip replacements, like the ball, socket and stem, are made of metal. The surface that moves (called the bearing surface) can be made of metal, ceramic or plastic. Surgeons usually avoid using metal-on-metal surfaces because of potential complications.

Your surgeon will choose the best materials and attachment method to fit your needs and help ensure a successful outcome.

After the procedure

After your surgery, the anesthesiologist will ensure you wake up safely from anesthesia and monitor you for any immediate complications.

You will either stay in the hospital for at least one night or go home the same day as your surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the plan with you prior to the day of your surgery. Some people, especially those who live alone, might benefit from a stay in an inpatient rehab facility before going home.

Hip replacement recovery 

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Your recovery from hip replacement surgery starts right away. You'll be encouraged to move around as soon as possible. Your doctor or therapist will help guide you on when to walk with or without assistance, how to manage pain and what to expect during your recovery.

Here’s what you can do during your recovery:

  • Keep the surgery area clean and dry
  • Take your medications as directed
  • Keep follow-up appointments with your doctor
  • Attend physical therapy and do your exercises at home
  • Eat normally unless your doctor advises otherwise
  • Elevate your legs and use ice to reduce swelling
  • Wait for your doctor’s approval before driving

You will likely be able to return to most light daily activities within three to six weeks after your surgery. Some pain or discomfort is normal with activity or at night for several weeks. Full hip replacement surgery recovery time is usually about three months.

High-impact activities like running or playing basketball may put too much stress on your new joint. However, most people can gradually return to lower-impact activities, such as swimming, golfing and biking, once they’ve fully recovered.

Blood clot prevention

After hip replacement surgery, you may be at higher risk for blood clots in your legs. To help prevent this, your doctor might recommend the following:

  • Moving early: You’ll be encouraged to sit up and start walking with crutches or a walker as soon as possible after surgery.
  • Using pressure devices: You may wear compression stockings or inflatable air sleeves on your legs. These help improve circulation and prevent blood from collecting in your veins.
  • Blood-thinning medications: Your doctor may prescribe blood thinners, either as an injection or pill, to help prevent clots. Depending on how active you are, you might need these for a few weeks after surgery.

Physical therapy

Staying active and doing exercises every day will help you regain strength and mobility in your hip. A physical therapist will show you exercises to strengthen your muscles and help you learn how to use a walker, cane or crutches. As you progress, you'll slowly put more weight on your leg until you're able to walk on your own.

Safety tips

Here are some tips to help prevent falls and stay safe.

  1. Use a cane or walker if needed for extra support when you're outside. Wear shoes with good support and nonslip soles—avoid slippers or athletic shoes with deep treads. When walking on slippery sidewalks, try walking on grass if you can, and in winter, use salt, sand or kitty litter to help with ice. Always stop at curbs and check their height before stepping up or down.

  2. Keep your floors free of clutter indoors and avoid running electrical cords where you walk. Use plastic or carpet runners to prevent slipping if you have slippery floors. Always wear shoes with nonslip soles, even indoors, and avoid walking in socks, stockings or slippers. Be careful not to trip over pets, and be cautious on polished floors, especially when wet. Ensure rugs are secure using skid-proof backing or double-stick tape to keep them in place.

  3. For added safety on stairs, ensure they are well-lit and have rails on both sides. Install grab bars in your bathroom near the tub, shower and toilet, and use a rubber bathmat or slip-proof seat in the shower or tub. Improve lighting in your home by using nightlights or keeping a flashlight next to your bed. Use ceiling lights or lamps near room entrances for easy access.

  4. To avoid accidents, use a sturdy stepstool with a handrail for reaching things high up, and keep a cordless phone or cell phone with you in case you need to call for help. You might also want to consider a personal emergency-response system so you can easily call for help if you fall.

Care Companion

If you have surgery at Baylor Scott & White, Care Companion is a digital resource tool within the MyBSWHealth app that connects you or your proxy to your surgeon and care team. Care Companion provides daily task lists, noting your recovery progress, and keeping your healthcare team informed of your success, so you can feel confident healing at home.

portrait of senior woman looking from the balcony

What are the risks of hip replacement surgery?

Complications from a hip replacement are rare, but as with any surgery, there are some risks both during and after the procedure. The most common risks include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Blood clots in the legs or lungs
  • Difference in leg length
  • Nerve injury
  • Fracture
  • Ongoing pain or stiffness
  • Dislocation
  • Loosening or wearing out of the parts
  • Unresolved joint pain (this may be temporary)

Artificial hip parts may wear out over time, especially if you're younger and more active. If that happens, you might need a second replacement. However, newer materials are making hip implants last longer.

Frequently asked questions

  • How long does hip replacement surgery take?

    Hip replacement surgery usually takes about one to two hours. The exact time can vary depending on how complex the surgery is, your age and health, any complications, and the type of anesthesia used.

  • Will an X-ray show if I need a hip replacement?

    An X-ray can show joint damage or narrowing, which might indicate the need for a hip replacement. However, your doctor will also consider your symptoms and how you respond to other treatments to decide if surgery is right for you. An X-ray alone can't determine if you need a hip replacement.

  • How long after hip replacement can I tie my shoes?

    After hip replacement surgery, it usually takes about six to eight weeks before you can tie your shoes on your own. Your body needs time to heal, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice. Recovery time can vary based on your health and healing process.

  • How long after hip replacement can you drive?

    You can usually start driving four to six weeks after hip replacement surgery. You’ll need to be pain-free, have full movement in your hip, and feel confident with your balance and reflexes. If your surgery was on your right hip or you drive a manual car, it may take longer.

  • Is hip replacement major surgery?

    Yes, hip replacement surgery is a major procedure. It involves removing the damaged hip joint and replacing it with an artificial one to help reduce pain and improve movement.

  • Can you run after hip replacement?

    Yes, you can run after a hip replacement but wait six to 12 months for healing. Get your doctor’s approval, build strength and start slow. Gradually increase intensity and stop if you feel pain. Consider low-impact alternatives like swimming, biking or walking if running doesn’t feel right.

  • Is hip replacement outpatient?

    Hip replacement is usually done as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day. Most people can walk and move around a few hours after surgery, but some may need to stay overnight for observation or if they have other health concerns.