If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve made the decision or are close to making the decision to undergo hip surgery. Maybe you’ve been living with pain for years. Maybe you’ve tried everything: physical therapy, injections, medication. And now, you’re hoping this surgery will bring back your mobility, independence, and quality of life.
That’s a big step and one that comes with a lot of questions.
In this guide, we walk you through the full hip surgery experience: from preparation and hospital day to recovery and beyond. Whether you’re undergoing total hip replacement or a more minimally invasive technique, knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety, improve outcomes, and help you take charge of your healing.
Before Hip Surgery
Preparation doesn’t start on the operating table it starts weeks before. The stronger and more informed you are going into surgery, the better your recovery will be.
1. Pre-Surgical Assessments
You’ll typically undergo a series of evaluations to ensure you’re ready for surgery:
- Blood tests
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
- X-rays or MRI of the hip
- General medical check-up (especially if you have conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or heart issues)
Your surgeon will use this data to design the safest and most effective surgical approach for your body and condition.
2. Prehab: Pre-Surgery Physical Therapy
Many hospitals now recommend a few weeks of “prehab” light, supervised exercises to strengthen your muscles and improve flexibility before surgery. A stronger body supports better surgical outcomes and speeds up healing.
3. Medication Review
Tell your healthcare team about all medications and supplements you take. You may need to stop certain drugs (especially blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medications) days before surgery to reduce bleeding risk.
4. Home Prep Checklist
Since your mobility will be limited initially, make your living space recovery-ready:
- Clear walkways of rugs, cords, or clutter
- Arrange a sleeping space on the ground floor if you have stairs
- Install grab bars in the bathroom if possible
- Use a raised toilet seat and shower chair
- Place commonly used items within arm’s reach
Think of it like baby-proofing only for adult healing.
5. Fasting and Hygiene Instructions
The hospital will give you specific instructions about:
- When to stop eating or drinking (usually 8–12 hours before surgery)
- How to bathe with antiseptic soap to reduce infection risk
- What to bring on surgery day (comfortable clothes, ID, medication list)
What Happens in the Operating Room
Knowing what to expect on the day of surgery can ease nerves and help you feel more in control.
1. Arrival and Check-In
You’ll likely arrive 1–2 hours before the scheduled surgery time. Nurses will review your history, insert an IV, and give you preoperative medications to relax you and prevent infection.
2. Anesthesia Options
You’ll discuss anesthesia with your care team beforehand. Most patients receive spinal anesthesia with light sedation (so you won’t feel anything but aren’t fully “under”), though general anesthesia is also common.
3. The Procedure Itself
Depending on the surgical approach anterior, posterior, or minimally invasive the procedure typically takes 1–2 hours.
What’s replaced during total hip arthroplasty:
- The femoral head (ball) is removed and replaced with a metal stem and ceramic or metal ball.
- The acetabulum (socket) is resurfaced and lined with a high-grade plastic or ceramic cup.
Robot-assisted techniques may also be used for greater precision and alignment.
4. Recovery Room
Once surgery is complete, you’ll spend about an hour in recovery as the anesthesia wears off. Your vital signs will be monitored closely, and you’ll begin to feel the effects of post-op pain relief.
What to Expect in Recovery
Contrary to old assumptions, today’s patients are encouraged to get up and move almost immediately after surgery. Early mobility reduces the risk of blood clots, improves circulation, and jumpstarts healing.
1. Hospital Stay: 1–3 Days
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 nights. Here’s what typically happens during your stay:
- Pain Management: Medications via IV or pills will keep discomfort in check.
- Physical Therapy: You’ll start walking (with a walker or crutches) within 24 hours.
- Monitoring: The team will watch for signs of complications (infection, bleeding, blood clots).
Your care team will also train you on how to move safely, how to sit, lie down, use stairs, and avoid dislocating your new hip.
The First Weeks at Home
The real work begins when you get home. This period is critical for proper healing, so be prepared both mentally and physically.
1. Mobility Aids
You’ll likely use a walker or crutches for the first couple of weeks. Gradually, you’ll transition to a cane, and eventually walk unaided.
2. Pain and Swelling
You may experience some pain, stiffness, or swelling especially at the end of the day. Keep ice packs on hand, and take medications as prescribed. Don’t try to “tough it out.”
3. Wound Care
Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Follow instructions on when you can shower and how to dress the wound. Look for signs of infection, such as redness, heat, or unusual drainage.
4. Physical Therapy at Home or Outpatient
A physiotherapist will guide you through exercises designed to:
- Strengthen the hip and surrounding muscles
- Improve flexibility and range of motion
- Prevent limping or imbalance
- Get you back to walking with confidence
Most patients do 4–6 weeks of structured therapy. Stick with it, it’s worth every minute.
Returning to Your Normal Life
Recovery is a journey, not a race. Depending on your age, fitness level, and surgical technique, your timeline may vary but here’s a rough guide:
- Drive again: Usually within 2–4 weeks (as long as you’re not on narcotics and can control the leg)
- Go back to work: Office jobs within 2–4 weeks; physical jobs might take longer
- Light exercise: Walking is encouraged early. Swimming and cycling after 4–6 weeks. High-impact sports? That’s a conversation with your surgeon.
- Full recovery: Most people return to full activity in 3–6 months.
What surprises many patients is how much better they feel not just physically, but emotionally. Pain relief can boost confidence, improve sleep, and renew social and family life.
Red Flags to Watch For
While complications are rare, it’s important to know when to call your doctor. Contact your provider if you experience:
- Sudden increase in pain or swelling
- Fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
- Redness or warmth around the incision
- Shortness of breath or chest pain (could signal a clot)
- Unusual drainage or bleeding
Early intervention helps prevent minor issues from becoming serious.
The Power of Being Prepared
Preparing for hip surgery isn’t just about booking a date, it’s about taking ownership of your health, setting realistic expectations, and building the habits that will support your recovery.
Whether you’re 45 and hoping to return to running, or 75 and simply want to walk without pain again, modern hip surgery offers a second chance at the life you deserve. But preparation makes all the difference.
Get informed. Get supported. Get moving.
Ready to Begin Your Hip Surgery Journey?
Speak with an experienced orthopedic team that takes time to understand your goals and guides you every step of the way before, during, and after surgery.
Because healing is more than physical. It’s about reclaiming your independence, your comfort, and your confidence.