Did you know that over 450,000 hip replacement surgeries are performed each year in the United States? This procedure has become increasingly common as advancements in medical technology make it safer and more effective for patients seeking relief from chronic hip pain and mobility issues.
At Kevin McCarthy, MD, Dr. Kevin McCarthy and the team specialize in advanced joint care, including hip replacement surgery, in Hollywood, FL. With years of experience and a patient-centered approach, we provide comprehensive care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life. If you’re considering hip replacement surgery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn about your options and start your journey toward recovery.
Understanding what to expect before, during, and after hip replacement surgery can help you feel more prepared and confident as you move forward.
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is a surgical procedure designed to replace the damaged components of your ball and socket joint—the part of your body that makes walking, bending, and everyday movement possible. There are two main types of procedures:
- Total hip replacement surgery replaces both the femoral head (the ball at the top of your thigh bone) and the socket in your pelvis.
- Partial hip replacement replaces only the damaged femoral head while leaving the socket intact. This may be recommended for specific injuries or conditions.
Such procedures are often ideal for individuals with an arthritic hip, severe joint deterioration, or fractures that haven’t responded to other treatments. The goal is simple yet life-changing—to alleviate pain and restore a healthy hip that supports your daily activities.
Key Things to Know Before Undergoing Hip Replacement
Preparing for any surgery can feel overwhelming, but taking things step by step can ease the pressure. If you’ve been struggling with chronic hip pain or reduced mobility, a total hip replacement—or total hip arthroplasty—may be a solution worth considering.
This procedure involves replacing the damaged parts of your hip joint with a durable artificial implant. It’s typically recommended for conditions like severe arthritis, hip fractures, or other degenerative joint issues that haven’t improved with non-surgical treatments.
Before surgery, your doctor will likely recommend a few important preparatory steps:
- Thorough Evaluation: Your medical history will be reviewed to ensure you’re a good candidate for surgery. Imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs may help assess the condition of your hip.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: To minimize risks, you may be advised to manage weight or stop smoking beforehand. These small changes can significantly improve your recovery prospects.
- Strengthening Exercises: Physical therapy exercises to build muscle strength around your hip improve post-surgery rehabilitation success.
- Home Modifications: Simple tools like a raised toilet seat or shower chair can make navigating your home safer as you recover. Planning ahead will ensure that your space is recovery-friendly.
The clearer you are on what to expect, the better prepared you’ll be—and Dr. McCarthy will be there to guide you through every question and concern.
What Happens During Hip Replacement Surgery?
On the day of your surgery, a caring team of healthcare professionals will guide you through the process. The procedure itself typically lasts one to two hours and is designed to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Here’s what to expect:
- Anesthesia will be administered to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. This could be general anesthesia or regional anesthesia (such as a spinal block).
- Joint replacement involves removing damaged bone and cartilage from your hip. Using advanced tools like the EMPOWR Acetabular System, Dr. McCarthy replaces the affected areas with an artificial hip joint tailored to your anatomy.
- Precision alignment is ensured through tools like the EMPOWR Dual Mobility implant, which reduces the risk of dislocation while enhancing range of motion and joint longevity.
Dr. McCarthy also employs technologies like ARVIS Augmented Reality to ensure superior implant placement, further improving recovery times and overall outcomes for his patients. Many patients benefit from minimally invasive techniques, resulting in smaller incisions, less discomfort, and a quicker return to normal activities.
Recovery Expectations and Timelines
After hip replacement surgery, most patients notice significant improvements in pain levels and mobility within a few weeks. However, recovery is still a step-by-step process that requires patience and commitment. Here’s what a typical timeline looks like:
First Few Days
Right after surgery, you’ll be closely monitored in the hospital or a recovery center. Physical therapy typically begins within 24 hours to restore gentle movement. Early recovery aids like a shower chair or walking aids may be useful during this period.
Weeks 1–4
At home, you’ll continue physical therapy exercises and avoid movements that could strain your healing hip. Most patients can walk with the assistance of a walker or cane during this period.
Weeks 4–12
By the second or third month, many patients begin resuming everyday activities, like driving or lightly exercising. Sticking to your rehabilitation plan is key to building strength and stability.
3–6 Months and Beyond
By combining personalized care and advanced implants like the EXPRT Revision Hip for long-lasting support, most patients fully heal within six months and return to enjoying activities like swimming, gardening, or golf with your healthy hip fully supporting you.
It’s important to remember that recovery times vary depending on factors like age, overall health, and adherence to a rehabilitation program. Rest assured, Dr. McCarthy and the team will closely monitor your progress and guide you at every stage.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care
Your rehabilitation program is one of the most important parts of the recovery process. Physical therapy focuses on restoring your range of motion, building strength, and helping you walk with ease again. Along the way, your therapist will customize exercises to your needs and make adjustments as you gain more mobility.
For the long term, caring for your new hip is essential to maintaining your results. Here are a few tips to help:
- Stick to safe activities like walking, swimming, or cycling to keep your joints moving without putting excess pressure on your hip.
- Watch your posture and avoid bending or twisting motions that could strain your joint.
- Maintain a healthy weight, which minimizes stress on your new hip and protects it from wear and tear.
With continued care and regular follow-ups with Dr. McCarthy, your artificial hip can provide decades of improved mobility and relief from pain.
Regain the Freedom to Move with Dr. McCarthy
Choosing the right care for orthopedic concerns can make all the difference in achieving mobility and comfort. Dr. Kevin McCarthy's expertise, paired with advanced solutions like the EMPOWR Acetabular System, ensures you receive tailored treatment that supports your recovery and long-term success.
Schedule an appointment today to learn more about your treatment options and begin your path to a healthier, more comfortable life. Together, we’ll help you get back to doing what you love!
