Your Hip Replacement Journey: Step-by-Step Timeline
If you’re thinking about private hip replacement surgery, knowing what to expect at each stage can make the process feel more manageable. At Transform Medical, your care is structured, consultant-led and fully supported from your first appointment through to full recovery.
Here’s a clear timeline of what your surgery journey looks like.
Consultation with Your Orthopaedic Surgeon
Your journey begins with a one-to-one consultation with a specialist orthopaedic consultant. At this appointment, your consultant will:
- Review your symptoms, medical history and level of mobility
- Examine your hip joint and discuss how it impacts your daily life
- Arrange or assess imaging such as an X-ray
- Explain your diagnosis and whether hip replacement surgery is appropriate
If surgery is recommended, your consultant will talk you through your treatment plan, including implant type, anaesthetic options and what recovery involves.
Pre-Assessment and Planning
After confirming that you’d like to proceed with surgery, we’ll schedule a surgery date and organise your pre-assessment, which usually takes place two to three weeks before your procedure.
During your pre-assessment:
- Blood pressure, heart rhythm and general fitness are reviewed
- Blood tests and other checks are completed
- Your anaesthetist will explain pain relief and sedation options
- You’ll be given instructions about fasting, medication changes and preparing your home for recovery
We’ll also advise you on what to bring and how to prepare for the day of surgery.
Surgery Day
On the day of surgery, you’ll be admitted to the hospital and welcomed by your care team. Your consultant will go through the final steps and mark the surgical site. You’ll also speak to the anaesthetist and be given time to ask any last-minute questions.
The operation usually takes one to two hours. Most patients receive a spinal anaesthetic with sedation, but some may have general anaesthesia depending on the case.
After surgery, you’ll be taken to recovery where your vital signs are closely monitored.
In-Hospital Recovery
You’ll stay in hospital for one to two nights. During this time:
- Your physiotherapy team will help you begin walking using a frame or crutches
- Pain is managed with medication and optional nerve blocks
- Nursing staff will assist with your care and wound dressing
- You’ll be guided through safe ways to sit, stand and use stairs
Before discharge, we ensure you are confident in managing mobility, personal care and following your rehabilitation plan at home.
Recovery at Home
Most patients feel comfortable walking short distances by six to eight weeks and can return to seated or desk-based work if appropriate. If your job is more physical, your consultant will advise when it’s safe to return.
By three months, most patients are walking more confidently, sleeping better and managing stairs and everyday tasks with ease.
It may take up to twelve months to fully regain muscle strength, joint flexibility and long-term comfort, but steady progress begins right away.
Returning to Activity
Most patients feel comfortable walking short distances by six to eight weeks and can return to seated or desk-based work if appropriate. If your job is more physical, your consultant will advise when it’s safe to return.
By three months, most patients are walking more confidently, sleeping better and managing stairs and everyday tasks with ease.
It may take up to twelve months to fully regain muscle strength, joint flexibility and long-term comfort, but steady progress begins right away.
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.