What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is a medical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial implant, known as a prosthesis. This surgery helps relieve chronic pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life for patients suffering from arthritis, fractures, or degenerative joint disease. It is one of the most common and successful orthopedic surgeries performed globally, with a high long-term success rate.
In this procedure, surgeons remove the worn-out parts of the hip joint, the ball (femoral head) and the socket (acetabulum) and replace them with durable metal, ceramic, or polyethylene components that function like a natural joint.
Step-by-Step Hip Replacement Procedure Explained
Understanding how the surgery works helps ease patient anxiety and sets realistic expectations. Here’s what typically happens inside the operating room during hip replacement surgery:
- Anesthesia: The patient is given spinal or general anesthesia to ensure a painless procedure.
- Incision: Depending on the surgical technique (posterior, lateral, or anterior), a small incision is made to access the hip joint.
- Removal of Damaged Bone: The surgeon removes the diseased bone and cartilage.
- Implant Placement: An artificial socket is placed into the pelvic bone, followed by fitting a new ball component at the top of the femur.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.
- Recovery Room: Patients are closely monitored for vital signs and initial pain management before being moved to their recovery ward.
If you’re wondering how long hip replacement surgery takes, it typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the surgical method and individual case complexity.
Types of Hip Replacement Surgery
Imperium Health Group connects patients with top orthopedic specialists offering a range of types of hip replacement based on condition and lifestyle:
- Total Hip Replacement Surgery: Both the ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced with artificial implants.
- Partial Hip Replacement Surgery: Only the damaged femoral head (the ball) is replaced, typically recommended after fractures.
- Anterior Hip Replacement Surgery: A minimally invasive approach that enters through the front of the hip, resulting in faster healing, less muscle damage, and quicker mobility.
Each type offers unique advantages, and the right choice depends on the patient’s diagnosis, activity level, and overall health.
Why Choose Hip Replacement Surgery?
People opt for hip replacement when chronic pain, stiffness, or limited movement severely affects daily life. The benefits of hip replacements include:
- Significant reduction or elimination of hip pain
- Improved range of motion and balance
- Enhanced quality of sleep and overall activity level
- Long-lasting results, most hip implants last 15–20 years or longer
- A return to normal physical activities such as walking, swimming, or light sports
Who is a Good Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?
Patients may be recommended for surgery if they experience:
- Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with Osteoarthritis Medication or physical therapy
- Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs
- Hip stiffness that limits mobility
- Structural damage visible on X-rays or MRI scans
Candidates should also be healthy enough to undergo anesthesia and follow post-operative rehabilitation routines.
Recovery Timeline & What to Expect After Hip Replacement
Hip replacement surgery recovery time varies for each patient but generally follows this timeline:
- First 24 hours: Pain is controlled with medication; gentle movements begin with assistance.
- 2 weeks after hip replacement surgery: Most patients can walk short distances using support and begin light exercises.
- 6 to 12 weeks: Patients gain strength, balance, and range of motion; many resume daily activities.
- 6 months onward: Full recovery and implant stabilization are typically achieved.
It’s common to experience mild soreness or stiffness; knowing what is normal pain after hip replacement surgery can help patients monitor healing and prevent complications.
Imperium’s partner hospitals also offer customized hip replacement physical therapy programs to support long-term recovery and prevent stiffness or imbalance.
Challenges After Hip Replacement Surgery
While most patients recover successfully, there are certain hip replacement risks to consider, including infection, dislocation, leg-length differences, or implant loosening. However, when performed by skilled orthopedic surgeons in accredited hospitals, these risks are minimal and manageable.
Patients are advised to follow all post-surgical instructions, attend physiotherapy sessions, and avoid high-impact movements during recovery.
When is Hip Replacement Necessary?
Surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments like Osteoarthritis Medication, physical therapy, or joint injections no longer relieve pain. Common conditions requiring surgery include:
- Severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Hip fractures from accidents or falls
- Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to bone tissue)
- Developmental hip dysplasia
Hip Replacement Cost and Insurance
The hip replacement surgery cost varies depending on location, implant material, and hospital package.
- In Turkey, the average cost ranges from $6,000 to $10,000, compared to $30,000–$45,000 in the US or UK, making it an affordable alternative without compromising quality.
- Some Hip Replacement Doctors and Clinics include accommodation, airport transfers, and follow-up visits in their packages. Patients are encouraged to check whether medical insurance or orthopedic travel coverage applies to their chosen treatment plan.
Choosing Your Hip Replacement Surgeon & Surgical Center
Selecting the right medical partner is essential for a safe and successful outcome. Imperium Health Group connects patients with highly qualified orthopedic surgeons and internationally accredited clinics offering advanced techniques, including robot-assisted and anterior hip replacement surgery.
Every step, from consultation to recovery is supported by Imperium’s care team, ensuring seamless coordination, transparency, and comfort throughout your treatment journey.
Final Thoughts
Hip replacement surgery can be life-changing restoring movement, independence, and comfort for those suffering from chronic pain. Whether you’re inquiring about recovery, cost, or choosing between partial or anterior hip replacement surgery, Imperium Health Group ensures you have access to the best orthopedic specialists worldwide.
Your journey toward a pain-free, active life begins with a single consultation.
Book your free assessment today with Imperium Health Group.
FAQ’s
- How long are you on bed rest after a hip replacement?
Most patients are encouraged to get out of bed and start gentle movement within 24 hours after surgery. Complete bed rest is rarely needed, but rest and gradual activity are important in the first few days. - What is normal pain after hip replacement surgery?
Mild to moderate soreness, stiffness, or swelling is normal for the first few weeks. Pain usually improves with prescribed medications and physical therapy. - What can I expect 2 weeks after hip replacement surgery?
By two weeks, many patients can walk short distances with support and perform light exercises. Swelling should reduce, and mobility gradually improves under guidance from your physical therapist. - How much does hip replacement surgery cost in Turkey? What will my insurance cover?
Hip replacement in Turkey typically costs $6,000–$10,000, often including surgery, hospital stay, and post-op care. Insurance coverage varies, so check if your plan reimburses international orthopedic procedures. - Are there any permanent restrictions after hip replacement?
Most patients can resume normal activities, but high-impact sports or heavy lifting may be limited to protect the implant. Daily activities like walking, swimming, and light exercise are usually safe. - How do you know if you need a hip replacement?
Surgery is recommended when chronic hip pain limits mobility and conservative treatments no longer help. Imaging and evaluation by an orthopedic specialist confirm if replacement is necessary.
