WHAT TO EXPECT …
YOUR HIP REPLACMENT JOURNEY
This guide outlines the journey of your hip replacement - from preparation, through surgery day, to recovery at home. It’s designed to help you feel confident, prepared, and supported every step of the way.
PREPARING FOR SURGERY
In the Days Before Surgery
Ensure all scans have been done.
Follow instructions from your pre-op appointment (blood tests, medication changes).
Stop eating and drinking at the time advised by Gace Hospital.
Arrange transport to and from the hospital.
Arrange for a support person and let them know what to expect.
Hygiene & Skin Prep
Shower the night before and morning of surgery using antibacterial soap, as explained by Grace Hospital.
Do not shave the surgical area—staff will do this if needed.
Remove nail polish and avoid lotions or creams on your skin.
Getting Your Home Ready
Set up a recovery space with easy access to essentials (bed, bathroom, phone charger).
Remove trip hazards like rugs or cords.
Place frequently used items within reach—avoid bending or stretching.
Prepare meals for the freezer or arrange support for cooking and groceries.
Consider equipment such as a raised toilet seat, shower chair, or walker.
What to Bring to Hospital
Your signed consent form.
Loose, comfortable clothing (wide-leg pants are best after hip surgery).
Toiletries and any mobility aids you normally use (walker, crutches, etc). Any additional aids will be provided by Grace Hospital
All current medications.
YOUR SURGERY DAY
Arrival & Check-In
Arrive at the hospital at the time provided in your pre-op instructions.
Check in at reception and you’ll be guided to the pre-operative area.
A nurse will confirm your details and help you get settled and changed into a hospital gown.
Meeting Your Surgical Team
You’ll meet your anaesthetist and surgeon before the procedure.
They’ll review your consent form and answer any final questions.
Anaesthesia options will be confirmed.
In the Operating Theatre
You’ll be taken to theatre once everything is ready.
The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours.
You’ll be closely monitored throughout by the surgical and anaesthesia teams.
Recovery Room
After surgery, you’ll wake up in the recovery area.
Nurses will monitor your vital signs and manage your comfort.
Once stable, you’ll be transferred to the ward to begin recovery.
Support Person Information
Your support person may wait in the designated area, usually your room in the ward.
Staff will provide updates after surgery and let them know when you’re ready to be seen.
Please ensure they bring any essentials you may need post-op.
RECOVERY IN HOSPITAL
Pain Management
Nurses will help manage pain with medication and comfort measures.
Tell staff if your pain isn’t controlled—they can adjust your plan.
Early Mobility
You’ll begin gentle movement soon after surgery.
Physiotherapists will guide you through safe exercises.
Follow hip precautions: no bending past 90°, no crossing legs, no twisting.
Physiotherapy
Simple exercises like glute squeezes, ankle pumps, and gentle hip abduction.
These help circulation, prevent stiffness, and build strength.
Occupational Therapy
Learn safe ways to get in and out of bed, dress, and bathe.
Practice using aids like reachers or sock helpers.
Discharge Planning
Staff will confirm your home setup and support arrangements.
You’ll be discharged once you’re safe to manage daily tasks with support.
RECOVERY AT HOME
Wound Care & Hygiene
Keep your dressing clean and dry.
Follow instructions for showering and wound checks.
Mobility & Walking Aids
Use crutches or a walker as advised.
Gradually increase walking distance each day.
Daily Routines
Avoid bending or twisting at the hip.
Use raised seating and aids to reduce strain.
Ask for help with cooking, cleaning, and groceries.
Nutrition & Emotional Wellbeing
Eat balanced meals to support healing.
Rest, but keep moving gently to avoid stiffness.
Stay connected with friends and family for support.
FOLLOW-UP & LONG-TERM RECOVERY
Clinic Visits
You’ll return for check-ups at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year.
Milestones
Walking unaided, driving, and returning to work are gradual goals.
Your surgeon and physiotherapist will guide you.
Long-Term Hip Precautions
Avoid pivoting or deep bending.
Keep strengthening exercises part of your routine.
Exercise Progression
Move from gentle exercises to more active rehabilitation.
Swimming and cycling are often recommended once cleared.