What to Expect After Hip Replacement Surgery?

by | Jul 24, 2025 | Hip

what to expect after hip replacement surgery

Undergoing hip replacement surgery can be a life-changing decision, one that brings relief from chronic pain and helps you get back to doing the things you love.

But like any major surgery, it comes with questions and concerns, especially about what happens after the operation.

What will recovery feel like? How long before you can walk normally? When can you drive again or return to work?

In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect after hip replacement surgery, from the first steps in hospital to regaining your independence at home. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or supporting someone who is, this guide will help you feel informed and confident about the road ahead.

1. Immediately After Surgery (Hospital Stay)

Hip replacement surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours and is performed under general anaesthetic. Thanks to modern surgical techniques, most patients are discharged the same day, meaning you’ll begin recovery in the comfort of your own home within hours.

Here’s what to expect right after surgery:

  • Same-Day Discharge: Once you’re fully awake, stable, and able to move safely with crutches, you’ll be sent home.
  • Pain Management: You’ll receive pain relief as needed, and your medical team will ensure your discomfort is well controlled before discharge.
  • Use of Crutches: You’ll be walking with crutches immediately after surgery, which you’ll typically use for 1 to 2 weeks.
  • Early Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist will guide you through simple exercises before you leave the hospital, focusing on safe movement and joint mobility.
  • Post-Op Instructions: You’ll be given detailed guidance on caring for your hip, managing pain, and preventing complications like blood clots.

This initial phase sets the foundation for a successful recovery, and even though you’ll be heading home quickly, support continues with physiotherapy and follow-up care.

2. The First Week at Home

The first week after hip replacement surgery is all about healing, staying mobile, and starting your physiotherapy plan, all while giving your body time to adjust.

Here’s what to expect during this stage:

  • Crutches for Support: You’ll continue using crutches for 1 to 2 weeks to help with balance and reduce stress on your new hip.
  • Early Physiotherapy: Guided exercises typically start within the first few days at home. These focus on gentle movement, circulation, and preventing stiffness.
  • Pain & Swelling: Some discomfort is normal and manageable with prescribed medication and ice packs. Swelling should gradually decrease.
  • Daily Activities: You’ll be able to move around with care, getting in and out of bed, using the bathroom, and doing short walks around the house.
  • Safety at Home: A clear walking path, supportive shoes, and grab bars in key areas (like the bathroom) help reduce the risk of falls.
  • Monitoring Recovery: Keep an eye on your incision for any signs of infection such as redness, drainage, or fever.

Although your movement is still limited, this stage is crucial, every small step helps build strength and confidence for the weeks ahead.

3. Weeks 2–6: Building Strength & Mobility

Between weeks 2 and 6, your mobility will steadily improve as you become more confident on your feet and more active in your recovery.

Here’s what typically happens during this stage:

  • Weaning Off Crutches: Most patients gradually stop using crutches by the end of this period, depending on balance, strength, and confidence.
  • Physiotherapy Progress: You’ll continue working closely with your physiotherapist on exercises that build hip strength, improve range of motion, and restore walking ability.
  • Increased Activity: Light household tasks, short walks outdoors, and gentle stretching may now be part of your daily routine, as long as movements are controlled and pain-free.
  • Pain Reduction: Pain levels are usually much lower than in the first week. Occasional discomfort or fatigue is normal, especially after increased activity.
  • Surgeon Follow-up: You’ll likely have a follow-up appointment during this period to review healing, check the incision, and assess your mobility.

This stage sets the pace for returning to normal life. Patients who stay consistent with physiotherapy often experience faster progress and fewer long-term issues.

4. Weeks 6–12: Regaining Independence

By weeks 6 to 12, most patients experience a significant leap forward in recovery. Daily activities feel easier, strength improves, and many people are ready to return to work or light sport, depending on their individual progress and condition.

Here’s what to expect during this stage:

  • Increased Mobility: You’ll likely be walking unaided or using a cane for longer outings. Movements become smoother and more natural.
  • Return to Work: Many patients are able to return to desk-based or light duties at work, with surgeon approval. More physically demanding roles may need a longer break.
  • Resuming Sport or Exercise: Depending on your condition and progress, you may be cleared to resume low-impact activities like golf, cycling, or swimming. Some patients begin this as early as 6–8 weeks.
  • Continued Physiotherapy: Therapy focuses on building endurance, improving balance, and refining your walking pattern.
  • Confidence Boost: Daily tasks such as climbing stairs, getting in and out of a car, or standing for longer periods usually become much easier.

This is often the point where patients feel like they’ve turned a corner, moving from recovery to normal life. However, it’s still important to avoid high-impact activities and follow all professional guidance.

5. 3 Months and Beyond

By the 3-month mark, many hip replacement patients are back to doing the things they enjoy, from walking longer distances to returning to recreational sports or work.

Here’s what to expect in the longer term:

  • Return to Sport or Work: Depending on your pre-surgery condition and the physical demands of your job or sport, you may now be fully cleared to return. Mr Mark Webb advises most patients can resume sport or work within 6 to 12 weeks, though this varies from person to person.
  • Continued Improvement: You may still notice gains in strength, balance, and flexibility as the body continues healing for up to 12 months.
  • No More Crutches: By now, most patients are walking unaided and feel confident navigating stairs, curbs, and uneven ground.
  • Low-Impact Activities Encouraged: Swimming, cycling, golf, and walking are excellent for long-term joint health. High-impact sports should only be resumed with medical clearance.
  • Occasional Stiffness: Some residual stiffness, especially in the morning or after long periods of sitting, may persist, but typically improves with movement.

This stage marks a return to independence and a better quality of life. Staying active and following through with any final physio recommendations will help you get the best long-term result from your surgery.

6. Things to Watch Out For

Although hip replacement surgery has a high success rate, it’s important to know the signs of potential complications during your recovery. Catching issues early helps ensure the best possible outcome.

Here’s what to keep an eye on:

Signs of Infection

  • Redness, warmth, or swelling around the incision
  • Fluid discharge or an unpleasant smell
  • Fever, chills, or feeling unwell

Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

  • Swelling or pain in the calf
  • Red or warm skin on the leg
  • Sudden shortness of breath (could indicate a more serious clot)

Hip Dislocation

  • Sharp pain in the hip or groin
  • Sudden inability to move the leg
  • Leg appears shorter or rotated

Slow Healing or Unusual Pain

  • Persistent or worsening pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
  • Increasing stiffness or difficulty walking after initial improvement

Leg Length Discrepancy

  • Feeling like one leg is longer than the other, often temporary and manageable with physiotherapy or shoe inserts

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your surgeon or GP promptly. Mr Mark Webb and his team are always available to support patients during their recovery journey and can provide guidance on what’s normal and what needs further attention.

7. Long-Term Outlook

Hip replacement surgery is designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and help you return to the activities you enjoy, and with modern surgical techniques, the long-term results are better than ever.

Here’s what you can expect after the initial recovery:

  • Implant Longevity: Most modern hip implants last 15 to 20 years or more, especially when patients stay active and follow their surgeon’s advice.
  • Active Lifestyle: You’ll be encouraged to return to low-impact activities like walking, swimming, cycling, and golf. These help keep the joint strong and flexible without putting stress on the implant.
  • Avoiding High-Impact Movements: Activities like running, jumping, or contact sports are generally discouraged unless approved by your surgeon, as they can wear down the joint over time.
  • Regular Monitoring: Periodic check-ups and imaging (X-ray or CT) may be recommended to ensure the implant is functioning properly and hasn’t shifted or loosened.
  • Rare Need for Revision Surgery: While most patients never need another operation, revision surgery is possible if the implant wears out or complications arise years down the line.

With proper care and ongoing support from your surgeon and physiotherapy team, most people enjoy a return to normal, independent living, without the constant pain that brought them to surgery in the first place.

Conclusion

Hip replacement surgery can feel like a big step, but for many patients, it’s the beginning of a more mobile, pain-free life. With advanced surgical techniques, most people go home the same day and start walking with crutches immediately, beginning physiotherapy within days of the procedure.

By staying active, following your recovery plan, and working closely with your physiotherapist, you can expect to return to work or low-impact sports within 6 to 12 weeks, depending on your individual condition. Full recovery can continue for months, with long-term results that last for years, or even decades.

At every stage, from preparation to long-term care, Mr Mark Webb and his team are here to guide you. If you’re considering hip replacement or want personalised advice about your recovery, don’t hesitate to get in touch.