Performed by Dr. Hari Prakash at Dr Hariprakash
Total hip replacement is a surgery that removes the damaged parts of your hip joint and replaces them with artificial parts, usually made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. It is performed when severe arthritis or injury has damaged the hip so much that pain and stiffness make daily activities difficult. Dr Hariprakash evaluates each patient individually to determine if this surgery is the right option.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
You receive general anaesthesia, which puts you to sleep, or spinal anaesthesia, which numbs the lower half of your body while you remain awake.
The surgeon makes an incision on the side or back of your hip and moves muscles aside to reach the hip joint.
The damaged ball at the top of the thigh bone and the damaged socket in the pelvic bone are cut away and removed.
A metal stem is inserted into the thigh bone and a metal or ceramic ball is attached to it. A metal socket lined with plastic or ceramic is fixed into the pelvic bone.
The muscles are repositioned, and the incision is closed with stitches or staples. A dressing is applied over the wound.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Hariprakash reviews your medical history, examines your hip, and studies X-rays or other scans to choose the right size and type of implant for you.
The procedure is performed using careful techniques to position the implant accurately and protect surrounding tissues.
After surgery, pain relief is provided and you are monitored for any complications. Physiotherapy begins within a day or two to help you start moving safely.
Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to check wound healing, implant position, and your progress with walking and rehabilitation.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
In the first few weeks, you use a walker or crutches and focus on gentle exercises to regain strength and movement. Pain and swelling are normal and gradually improve. Individual instructions from your clinical team take priority over general timelines.
Between 6 and 12 weeks, most people can walk without aids and resume many daily activities. Physiotherapy continues to improve hip strength, flexibility, and balance.
By 3 to 6 months, most people feel significant improvement in pain and function. Some activities may need to be modified to protect the new joint. Recovery pace varies based on individual health and rehabilitation effort.
The procedure aims to significantly reduce or eliminate hip pain that has not responded to other treatments, improving comfort during daily activities.
Many people regain the ability to walk, climb stairs, and perform tasks that were limited by hip stiffness and pain.
The artificial joint may not tolerate high-impact activities like running or jumping. Some movements that risk dislocation may need to be avoided, especially in the first few months.
Artificial hip joints can wear out over time and may need revision surgery after 15 to 20 years, depending on activity level and implant type. Outcomes vary for each person.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and targeted exercises may help manage symptoms in early or moderate arthritis. This option is considered when joint damage is not yet severe.
A procedure that reshapes and caps the damaged bone rather than replacing it entirely. It may be considered for younger, active patients with good bone quality, depending on individual anatomy and risks.
Using a cane, losing weight, and avoiding activities that stress the hip can reduce pain and delay the need for surgery. The choice depends on the degree of joint damage, symptoms, and personal circumstances.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about total hip replacement.
Get a personalised assessment from an experienced specialist. Understand your options, ask your questions, and decide with confidence.
