By Mr Philip Dobson, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Newcastle Hospitals NHS and Nuffield Health Newcastle.

Hip replacement surgery is one of the most successful procedures for relieving pain and improving mobility when arthritis or injury has damaged the joint. Knowing what to expect after your operation can help you feel more confident and recover more smoothly.

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Philip Dobson explains what typical recovery looks like following modern hip replacement surgery.

The Day of Surgery

Most patients are up and moving within a few hours of their operation. Thanks to advances in anaesthetic and surgical techniques, many people now go home the same day as their surgery. Others may stay one night depending on progress and home support.

During this time:

• The team will monitor your wound, movement and pain levels.
• You’ll begin walking with the physiotherapy team using crutches.
• You’ll learn basic hip exercises to start your recovery safely.

Pain and swelling are normal, but we aim to keep both well controlled with a combination of medication, ice therapy, and early gentle movement.

Going Home

You’ll be discharged once you’re walking safely with crutches and can manage stairs.

Before you go home, your physiotherapist will give you a tailored exercise plan — this is key to regaining strength and flexibility.

At home:

• Keep your wound clean and dry until the dressing is removed (usually around 10–14 days).
• Use your walking aids as advised, gradually reducing them as confidence improves.
• Elevate your leg when resting to help reduce swelling.

You’ll need a friend or family member with you for the first 24 hours if you’ve gone home the same day.

The First Six Weeks

Most patients make steady progress during this period. You’ll notice:

• Less stiffness and swelling each week.
• Gradual return of strength and balance.
• Improved walking distance and confidence.

Driving can usually resume at around six weeks once you’re comfortable, off strong pain medication, and can perform an emergency stop safely.

Returning to Everyday Activities

By three months, most people walk independently and enjoy much less pain.

Light activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking can usually resume once your wound has healed — your surgeon or physiotherapist will guide you.

High-impact activities and running aren’t advised, but most daily and recreational activities are fine.

Long-Term Outlook

A well-performed hip replacement should last 20 years or more.

Keeping your weight healthy, staying active, and following your exercise plan all help protect the new joint and maintain mobility long-term.

When to Seek Advice

Contact your healthcare team if you notice:

• Increasing pain, redness, or swelling around the wound.
• Any fluid or discharge from the incision.
• Fever or feeling generally unwell.

Early review helps prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.

Final Thoughts

Hip replacement surgery can be life-changing — relieving pain, restoring movement, and helping you return to the activities you enjoy.

Good preparation, effective pain control, and commitment to your physiotherapy all make a real difference to your recovery and long-term outcome.