About the Procedure
Understanding what will actually happen during surgery helps reduce anxiety and lets you make informed decisions.
What surgical approach do you use, and why is it right for me?
How long will the surgery take?
What type of anesthesia will I receive?
Will I need a blood transfusion? What is your policy on autologous donation?
What are the most common complications with this procedure, and how do you manage them?
What is your personal complication rate for hip replacement?
How many hip replacements do you perform each year?
Will you personally perform the entire surgery, or will a resident or fellow assist?
What hospital or surgical center will be used, and why?
About Implant Choices
Hip implants vary in material, design, and expected longevity. You have the right to understand what is going into your body.
What implant system do you use, and why do you prefer it?
What are the implant components made of?
What is the expected lifespan of this implant?
Is this implant appropriate for my age and activity level?
Are there alternative implant options I should consider?
What is your experience with this specific implant system?
Is this implant part of any ongoing registry or study?
What happens if the implant needs to be revised in the future?
About Recovery Expectations
Recovery timelines vary. Getting realistic expectations from your surgeon helps you plan and avoids unnecessary worry.
How long will I be in the hospital?
When will I be able to bear full weight on my leg?
What does the first week at home typically look like for your patients?
When can I expect to walk without a walker? Without a cane?
What is a realistic timeline for returning to normal daily activities?
What factors in my situation might affect my recovery timeline?
What are the signs that my recovery is going well?
What signs should prompt me to call your office?
What signs should prompt me to go to the emergency room?
About Activity Restrictions
Knowing what you can and cannot do — and for how long — helps you plan your home setup, work schedule, and support needs.
What are my hip precautions after surgery, and how long do they last?
When can I drive?
When can I return to work? Does it matter what kind of work I do?
Are there activities I should avoid permanently with this implant?
When can I resume exercise? What types are safe?
When can I travel by car? By plane?
Are there any sexual activity restrictions, and for how long?
What are the long-term activity guidelines for someone with a hip replacement?
About Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a critical part of recovery. Understanding the plan in advance helps you prepare.
Will I have physical therapy in the hospital before I go home?
Will I need home PT, outpatient PT, or both?
How soon after surgery does PT typically begin?
How many PT sessions will I need, and over what timeframe?
What exercises should I be doing before surgery to prepare?
Do you have a preferred PT practice or therapist you recommend?
What should I look for in a physical therapist for hip replacement recovery?
About Follow-Up Care
Your relationship with your surgeon does not end at discharge. Understanding the follow-up plan keeps you on track.
When is my first post-operative appointment?
What will be checked at that appointment?
How often will I need follow-up appointments in the first year?
What long-term follow-up is recommended for hip replacement patients?
Will I need periodic imaging to monitor the implant?
Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns between appointments?
What is the after-hours protocol if I have an urgent concern?
Are there any lifetime precautions I should know about — for example, regarding dental procedures or other surgeries?