What Happens During Your Private Hip Replacement Surgery?
If you’re preparing for a private hip replacement, it’s natural to want to understand what happens on the day of your surgery. Feeling informed can reduce anxiety and help you feel more in control.
Here’s what typically happens, from the moment you arrive at the hospital to when you begin recovery after surgery.
On Arrival at the Hospital
You’ll be given a specific arrival time, usually in the morning. After checking in, you’ll meet your consultant surgeon, anaesthetist and nursing team. They’ll go through final checks, review your consent form, and answer any remaining questions. Your hip will be marked to confirm the surgical site, and you’ll change into a hospital gown before being taken to the anaesthetic area.
Anaesthesia Options
Most hip replacement patients receive spinal anaesthesia, which numbs the lower half of your body. This is usually combined with light sedation so you feel calm and relaxed. In some cases, a general anaesthetic is used instead, which means you’ll be fully asleep during the operation.
The anaesthetist will also discuss whether you’ll receive additional pain relief methods, such as a nerve block or local anaesthetic injection, to keep you comfortable after the procedure.
The Hip Replacement Procedure
The operation usually takes between one and two hours. Once you’re in theatre, your consultant surgeon will begin by cleaning and preparing the hip area.
Here’s what happens during the procedure:
- An incision is made over the side or front of the hip, depending on the surgical approach
- Damaged bone and cartilage from the ball and socket joint are carefully removed
- A smooth artificial implant is fixed in place to restore joint function
- The new joint is tested for movement and stability
- The wound is then closed using stitches or surgical glue, and covered with a sterile dressing
Throughout the surgery, we use advanced surgical tools and precise techniques to ensure the implant fits securely and functions well.
After Surgery in Recovery
When the surgery is complete, you’ll be taken to a recovery room where your vital signs are monitored. You’ll still feel drowsy at first. Most patients have a drip for fluids, and some have compression boots to support circulation. Your hip will be bandaged, and pain relief will be carefully managed.
You’ll stay in the recovery area until you’re stable and ready to move to your hospital room.
Early Physiotherapy and Mobilisation
Many patients are helped to sit up, stand, or take a few steps on the same day of surgery or the morning after. This early movement is important to help reduce the risk of blood clots and to begin rebuilding strength in the joint.
You’ll be supported by a physiotherapist, and all exercises will be explained clearly and adapted to your comfort level.
Why Choose Our Hip Replacement Treatment?
We understand the urgency of your needs, and we commit to providing direct access to advanced treatments without any waiting lists.
Meet Our Surgeon
Dr. Hazem Hassouna
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Specialist in Hip and Knee Surgery | GMC Registered (No. 6070956)
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Hazem Hassouna specialises in hip and knee replacements, arthroscopy, and complex lower limb procedures. He is known for his precision, advanced training, and a patient-first approach to orthopaedic care.
Consultant Insight
This article was written by the Transform Medical team, based on real questions we hear every week in our consultations. We’ve worked closely with our orthopaedic and clinical care teams to make sure this reflects the concerns and decisions real patients face.