When can I shower?
We used advanced water proof bandages so typically you may take a shower the next day after surgery.
When can I walk after surgery?
The same day! Most people are walking with the assistance of a walker on the day of surgery. Prompt walking has been shown to reduce the risk of a post-operative blood clots and is an important part of your recovery. Within the first month or two after surgery, you may walk using a cane or no walking aids depending on your progress. Despite the rapid progression to moving without assistance, it is typically not recommended that you return to aggressive/sporting activities until the third month after surgery.
When can I drive?
Depending on which leg… the right hip would obviously take a little longer to properly use the brake and gas pedals. All patients have to be off narcotics and no longer depending on a walker before they are able to drive on their own. Most patients are driving at four to six weeks after surgery, and sometimes sooner if the operative leg is the left leg.
When can I return to work?
Returning to work is highly dependent on your general health, activity level and the physical demands of your job. If you have a sedentary job, such as computer work, you can expect to return to work in two to three weeks. If you have a more demanding job that requires lifting, walking, or travel, you may need up to three months for full recovery
What restrictions will I have after surgery?
I generally advise against extremes of positions in the early recovery period but place very few restrictions on my patients after hip replacement. Many go back to skiing, snowboarding, waterskiing, hiking, climbing, golf, yoga, pilates, mixed martial arts and many others. High impact activities such as long distance running are discouraged but not prohibited.
Will my implant set off metal detectors at airports and courthouses?
Usually patients with joint replacements will set off metal detectors. This should not be of great concern. It is reasonable for you to inform the TSA screening agent at the airport that you have had a joint replacement; however, you will still require screening and will need to follow the directions of the screening agent. There are millions of individuals with joint replacements, and screening protocols recognize that people who have had joint replacements may set off detectors. Joint replacement documentation is not required.
Watch This Video and Learn More About Metal Detectors and your new New Joint!
Will I need to take antibiotics prior to seeing a dentist or having other surgical procedures?
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery (AAOS) and American Dental Association (ADA) have generally recommended short-term antibiotics prior to dental procedures (one dose one hour prior to dental procedure) for patients who have had joint replacements. This recommendation continues for up to two years after your joint replacement.
Two or more years after the replacement, continued use of antibiotics prior to dental procedures is based on the discretion of the treating surgeon and the patient. Your surgeon will consider many factors including whether or not you are at increased risk of infection due to immune suppression (i.e. diabetic, transplant patients, and rheumatoid arthritis).
The use of prophylactic antibiotics prior to dental cleanings and other invasive procedures remains controversial. Most orthopaedic surgeons now recommend lifetime prophylaxis. Patients should discuss whether or not they need antibiotics prior to dental or other invasive procedures with their treating orthopedic surgeon.
Should I continue to see my surgeon after I’ve healed?
It is important to follow up with your surgeon after your joint replacement. In most cases, joint replacements last for many years.
The frequency of required follow up visits is dependent on many factors including the age of the patient, the demand levels placed on the joint, and the type of replacement. We will consider all these factors and tailor a follow-up schedule to meet your needs.
In general, seeing your surgeon every three to five years is recommended.
Are there specific instructions for care after surgery?
Yes. We have prepared a document with instructions for your specific care after a total hip replacement.
These instructions cover very important subjects such as:
- ACTIVITY
- PAIN MANAGEMENT
- MEDICATIONS
- WOUND and DRESSING CARE
- SHOWERING
- COMPRESSION STOCKINGS
- COLD THERAPY
- SKIN & NOSE CARE
- DIET
- FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT
- WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR
- AT-HOME EXERCISES
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