Hip Replacement (Total Hip Arthroplasty) Orthopedic Surgery

Hip replacement, also called total hip arthroplasty, is surgery to remove damaged parts of the hip joint and replace them with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, and plastic.

Hip Replacement (Total Hip Arthroplasty) procedure illustration

Overview

Hip replacement, also called total hip arthroplasty, is surgery to remove damaged parts of the hip joint and replace them with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, and plastic. The goal is to reduce pain, improve movement, and help people return to daily activities. It is most often done for severe arthritis or other damage that keeps getting in the way of walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping, even after trying non-surgical treatments.

Overview Preparation Clinical Info Recovery FAQ References

Also known as: Total hip replacement, THA, Hip arthroplasty

Recovery
42–180 days
Return to Work
14–84 days

Preparation & Next Steps

Everything you need to know before and after your procedure

Before Care

  • Complete preoperative testing as scheduled, such as blood work, EKG, and imaging.
  • Provide an up-to-date list of medicines and supplements and note any allergies or prior reactions.
  • Review instructions about blood thinners, diabetes medicines, and supplements that may need timing changes.
  • Follow fasting instructions for anesthesia on the day of surgery.
  • Shower with any prescribed antiseptic soap as directed and avoid lotions or creams on the surgical leg.
  • Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you the first night.
  • Prepare your home by removing tripping hazards, securing handrails, and setting up a stable chair and raised toilet seat if recommended.
  • Plan help for meals, shopping, pet care, and chores during the first couple of weeks.
  • Discuss tobacco and nicotine use; many programs recommend stopping before surgery and can offer support.
  • Ask about dental care timing and infection prevention steps before surgery.

After Care

  • Keep the incision clean and dry as instructed and avoid soaking until cleared.
  • Use pain control methods as directed, which may include ice, medicine, and elevation.
  • Walk short distances several times per day and increase gradually per your therapy plan.
  • Use your walker or cane until your team advises that it is safe to transition.
  • Follow your blood clot prevention plan, which may include walking, compression stockings, or medicine.
  • Do your prescribed home exercises and attend physical therapy visits if scheduled.
  • Follow any hip precautions provided by your team to reduce the risk of dislocation.
  • Resume driving only after you have been cleared by your clinician.
  • Monitor for signs of infection such as increasing redness, warmth, drainage, or fever and contact a clinician if they occur.
  • Contact a clinician if you notice new calf pain or swelling, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or worsening pain that is not improving.

Clinical Information

Important medical details about this procedure

Indications

  • Severe hip osteoarthritis with pain and stiffness
  • Inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis affecting the hip
  • Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the femoral head)
  • Hip fracture with joint damage or failed prior repair
  • Hip dysplasia with advanced arthritis
  • Persistent pain limiting daily activities after non-surgical care

Alternatives

  • Activity modification and weight management
  • Physical therapy and targeted exercises
  • Assistive devices such as a cane or walker
  • Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Corticosteroid injections into the hip joint
  • Hip resurfacing in select candidates
  • Osteotomy or joint-preserving procedures in select younger patients

Risks

  • Infection at the incision or deep in the joint
  • Blood clots in the legs or lungs
  • Hip dislocation
  • Leg length difference or altered gait
  • Fracture or nerve injury around the implant
  • Ongoing pain or stiffness
  • Implant loosening, wear, or need for revision surgery
  • Bleeding and anesthesia-related risks

Contraindications

  • Active infection in the body or skin infection near the surgical site
  • Uncontrolled heart, lung, or metabolic conditions
  • Severe malnutrition or untreated anemia
  • Inability to participate in early mobilization and rehabilitation
  • Allergy or sensitivity to implant materials without an alternative plan
  • Poor skin or soft tissue condition that cannot support healing

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery

Most people begin walking with assistance the day of or the day after surgery. Early recovery often takes a few weeks, and fuller recovery can take several months.

Typical Range

42–180 days

Return to Work

14–84 days

Recovery Milestones

Day 0–1

Stand and walk with a walker and start simple exercises

Day 1–7

Take short, frequent walks at home and practice stairs with support

Day 7–14

Increase walking distance; many transition to a cane per therapy plan

Day 14–42

Resume light household tasks; many return to desk work when cleared

Day 42–90

Build strength and endurance; return to low-impact activities when incision is healed

Day 90–180

Gradual return to most routine activities as comfort and strength improve

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and expert answers about this procedure

What happens during a hip replacement?

The damaged ball of the hip is removed and replaced with a metal or ceramic ball on a stem placed in the thigh bone. A cup with a plastic or ceramic liner is placed in the hip socket. The parts may be press-fit or cemented depending on bone quality and surgeon preference.

How long do hip implants last?

Many modern hip replacements function well for 15 to 20 years or longer. Longevity depends on factors like activity level, implant materials, bone quality, and wear over time.

How long will I stay in the hospital?

Some people go home the same day, while others stay 1 to 3 days. The plan depends on your overall health, support at home, and how safely you can move after surgery.

When can I drive after hip replacement?

Driving typically resumes after you can safely control the leg, are off medicines that impair reaction time, and have been cleared by your clinician. This often takes a few weeks.

What activities are usually allowed after recovery?

Low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, and swimming are commonly encouraged. High-impact activities can increase wear on the implant.

What are the main risks of hip replacement?

Risks include infection, blood clots, dislocation, leg length difference, fracture, nerve injury, implant wear or loosening, and anesthesia risks.

What is the difference between cemented and cementless implants?

Cemented implants use special bone cement to fix components in place, while cementless implants rely on bone growing into a porous surface. Choice depends on bone quality and surgeon planning.

Will I need physical therapy?

Most programs include early walking, home exercises, and sometimes outpatient therapy to restore motion, strength, and balance.