- A total hip replacement typically takes around one to two hours of surgical time.
- A partial hip replacement typically takes around one hour, while hip resurfacing typically takes around two to three hours.
- The recovery itself takes far longer than the operation: many patients progress through the main phase over roughly six weeks to three months.
- Surgical approach (commonly anterior or posterior) can influence early recovery, though neither is simply “better.”
- Strength and function can continue improving for up to a year after surgery.
If you’re facing hip replacement surgery, it’s natural to want to know how long the operation itself takes, and how long the recovery that follows will be. Both depend on the type of surgery and your individual circumstances, but here’s a general guide to what to expect.
How Long Does the Operation Take?
The length of the operation depends on the type of procedure and individual factors, but as a general guide:
| Procedure | Typical Operating Time |
|---|---|
| Total hip replacement | Around one to two hours |
| Partial hip replacement | Around one hour |
| Hip resurfacing | Around two to three hours |
- Total hip replacement — the most common procedure, replacing both the ball and socket of the joint with artificial components. The operation typically takes around one to two hours of surgical time.
- Partial hip replacement — replacing only one part of the joint, sometimes used in the setting of certain fractures. This also typically takes around one hour.
- Hip resurfacing — rather than removing the femoral head, it is reshaped and capped with a metal component, preserving more of the natural bone. It is suitable only for selected patients. Operating times are broadly similar and depend on the individual case, but typically 2–3 hours is normal.
These are general estimates. The exact time varies with the complexity of your hip, the surgical approach used, and other individual factors.
Surgical Approaches
Hip replacement can be performed through different approaches, most commonly the anterior (front) or posterior (back) approach. The anterior approach works between the muscles rather than cutting through them, which can be associated with a faster early recovery in suitable patients; the posterior approach is reliable, versatile, and more appropriate for some patients. Neither is simply “better”, the right approach depends on your anatomy and circumstances, and is a decision to make with your surgeon.
How Long Is the Recovery?
Recovery takes considerably longer than the operation itself and varies from person to person. As a general guide, many patients progress through the main phase of recovery over roughly six weeks to three months, though strength and function can continue improving for up to a year. The exact timeline depends on factors such as your age, general health, fitness, mobility, and the specific surgery performed.
A typical early recovery often looks like:
- Rehabilitation usually beginning within about a day of surgery, guided by a physiotherapist
- Walking distance and frequency gradually increasing over the following days
- A hospital stay of a few days, though this varies between patients
- Returning to work and other activities as advised by your surgical team, based on your recovery and the nature of your work
Your own team will give you a timeline tailored to your surgery and progress, drawing on general guidance such as healthdirect’s overview of hip replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a hip replacement operation?
A total hip replacement typically takes around one to two hours, though this varies with the individual case and the approach used. The recovery afterwards takes much longer than the operation itself.
How long will I be in hospital?
Many patients stay for 1–2 days after surgery, but the length of stay varies between individuals and is guided by your recovery and your surgical team.
When can I return to work?
This depends on your recovery and the physical demands of your job, so it is guided by your surgical team rather than a fixed date. Office-based work is generally possible sooner than physically demanding work. If you’d like to discuss your situation, get in touch.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is intended as general patient education and does not constitute medical advice. Operation and recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery and your individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your own surgical team.
