Top Questions Patients Ask About Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

Hip and knee replacements (total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty) are among the most successful orthopedic procedures, relieving severe arthritis pain and restoring mobility for millions each year. Still, deciding on surgery brings many questions. Drawing from leading sources like Mayo Clinic, AAOS, Johns Hopkins, and patient surveys, here are the most common questions patients ask—along with clear answers.

1.  Am I a good candidate for hip or knee replacement? When is the right time?

You’re likely a candidate if pain severely limits daily activities (walking, climbing stairs, sleeping), doesn’t respond to non-surgical options like physical therapy, injections, medications, or weight loss, and X-rays show advanced arthritis. There’s no strict age cutoff—people in their 20s to 100s have successful replacements—but surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail and quality of life suffers. Waiting too long can lead to muscle weakness or more complications, but rushing isn’t ideal either.

2.  What are the risks and potential complications?

Risks include infection (about 1%), blood clots (DVT or PE), dislocation (more common in hips), implant loosening over time, nerve damage, or uneven leg lengths. Major complications occur in roughly 9-14% of cases within months, but most are manageable. Success rates exceed 90-95%, with high patient satisfaction.

3.  How long does the surgery take, and what type of anesthesia is used?

Procedures usually last 45-90 minutes (sometimes up to 2-3 hours). Spinal/epidural or general anesthesia is common, chosen based on your health.

4.  What is the recovery timeline? When can I walk, drive, return to work, or play sports?

Many go home the same day or within 1-3 days. Walking with assistance starts immediately. Driving often resumes in 6 weeks. Full recovery takes 3-6 months for daily activities, up to a year for optimal strength. Low-impact sports like pickleball are possible after clearance (often 3-6 months).

5.  How long will the implant last?

Modern implants last 15-20+ years in most patients, with 90%+ survival at 10-15 years. Longevity depends on age, weight, activity level, and avoiding high-impact sports. Younger, active patients may need revision later.

6.  Will it relieve my pain and restore function? What about returning to activities?

Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility. Many return to golf, swimming, walking, or even pickleball at pre-surgery levels or better—pain-free.

7.  What should I do before and after surgery?

Pre-surgery (“prehab”): Strengthen muscles, lose weight if needed, optimize health. Post-surgery: Follow PT diligently, manage pain, prevent clots (meds/stockings), and adhere to precautions (e.g., hip: avoid crossing legs).

These questions highlight patients’ top concerns: pain relief, safety, recovery speed, and lifestyle return. Outcomes are excellent with proper preparation.

If hip or knee pain is holding you back, get personalized answers. Contact Dr. Dustin Hambright in Charleston to schedule a consultation. As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacements, he helps active individuals understand options and reclaim pain-free movement—whether that’s dominating the pickleball court or enjoying everyday life. Don’t let questions keep you sidelined—reach out today.