Total Hip Replacement (Hip Arthroplasty)

Thanks to advancements in materials—particularly highly cross-linked polyethylene and ceramics—modern hip implants are extremely durable. For the vast majority of patients (over 85%), a hip replacement will last 15 to 20 years, and often much longer.

Most patients stand and walk with assistance on the same day as their surgery or the day after. Depending on the surgical approach, hospital stays range from outpatient (going home the same day) to a few days. Basic daily activities usually resume within 3 to 6 weeks, with full recovery taking up to 6 to 12 months.

Depending on how the surgeon accesses the hip (the surgical approach, such as posterior or anterior), you may be given specific rules to prevent the new hip from popping out of the socket (dislocating) while the tissues heal. These may include not bending your hip past 90 degrees, not crossing your legs, and not turning your feet excessively inward or outward.

You can typically resume driving 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. However, you must be completely off all narcotic pain medications and have regained enough strength and reflex speed to brake safely.

While a hip replacement drastically improves mobility and quality of life, most surgeons recommend avoiding high-impact activities like running, jumping, or heavy contact sports to prevent the implant from wearing out prematurely or loosening. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, golfing, and hiking are generally highly encouraged.