Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery

Preparing for hip replacement surgery begins well before the day of your operation.  While modern hip replacement is one of the most successful procedures in orthopaedic surgery, the weeks leading up to surgery are an excellent opportunity to improve your strength, optimise your health and plan for a smoother recovery.

Research consistently shows that patients who prepare well before surgery often recover more quickly, regain function sooner and feel more confident during rehabilitation.  Small changes before your operation can make a significant difference afterwards.

This guide explains how to prepare physically, medically and practically so you can approach your surgery with confidence.

At a Glance

This article covers:

• What to do in the weeks before surgery

• Why prehabilitation is important

• Optimising your general health

• Nutrition before surgery

• Preparing your home

• What to bring to hospital

• Frequently asked questions

Hip replacement surgery restores mobility, but your recovery depends on more than the operation itself.  Patients who prepare well often experience:

• Greater confidence

• Earlier mobilisation

• Improved muscle strength

• Better pain control

• Smoother rehabilitation

Preparing before surgery is often referred to as prehabilitation, or "prehab."

Although arthritis may limit your activities, maintaining as much movement as possible helps preserve muscle strength before surgery.

Low-impact activities include:

• Walking

• Stationary cycling

• Swimming

• Hydrotherapy

• Gentle stretching

Your physiotherapist may recommend exercises that strengthen the muscles around the hip while avoiding unnecessary pain.

Strong muscles support your recovery after surgery.

Focus on improving:

• Hip muscles

• Gluteal muscles

• Quadriceps

• Core stability

• Balance

Better muscle strength before surgery often makes rehabilitation easier afterwards.

Good nutrition supports:

• Wound healing

• Muscle recovery

• Immune function

• Energy levels

Aim for a balanced diet containing:

• Lean protein

• Fresh fruit and vegetables

• Whole grains

• Dairy or calcium-rich alternatives

• Adequate hydration

If you have experienced recent weight loss or have concerns about your nutrition, discuss this with your GP or dietitian before surgery.

Smoking increases the risk of:

• Wound complications

• Infection

• Delayed healing

• Chest complications

Stopping smoking, even a few weeks before surgery can improve recovery and reduce complications.

Before surgery it is important to ensure medical conditions are well controlled.

This may include:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Heart disease

• Lung conditions

• Anaemia

Your GP, physician and anaesthetist may assist with optimisation before your operation.

Simple changes at home can make recovery much easier.

Consider:

• Removing loose rugs

• Improving lighting

• Clearing walkways

• Preparing meals in advance

• Placing frequently used items at waist height

• Organising help from family or friends

Planning ahead allows you to focus on your recovery.

Most patients benefit from bringing:

• Comfortable loose-fitting clothing

• Supportive walking shoes

• Personal toiletries

• Glasses and hearing aids if required

• Walking aids (if requested)

• A list of your medications

Your hospital will usually provide a detailed checklist before admission.

Your surgeon or anaesthetist will advise which medications should be continued or temporarily stopped before surgery.  Never stop prescription medication without medical advice.

Particular attention may be required for:

• Blood thinners

• Diabetes medications

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Certain supplements

 Recovery begins before surgery.

Think about:

• Who will drive you home?

• Who can help during the first few days?

• Where will you sleep if stairs are difficult?

• Do you have ice packs or a compression device available?

• Have you arranged physiotherapy?

Having a plan reduces stress after surgery.

Your hospital will provide a checklist, but this commonly includes:

• Comfortable clothing

• Supportive walking shoes

• Toiletries

• Glasses or hearing aids if required

• Medication list

• Walking aids (if requested)

Leave valuables at home whenever possible.

The evening before surgery:

✔ Follow fasting instructions provided by your hospital.

✔ Shower as instructed.

✔ Pack your hospital bag.

✔ Take medications only as advised.

✔ Get a good night's sleep if possible.

One of the biggest surprises for many patients is how soon rehabilitation begins.

Most patients:

• Stand on the day of surgery or the following morning.

• Begin walking with a physiotherapist.

• Start simple exercises immediately.

• Return home within two to four days.

Knowing this beforehand helps patients feel prepared and confident.

Should I exercise before surgery?

Yes.  Remaining as active as your symptoms allow is usually beneficial and helps prepare your muscles for recovery. 

Should I lose weight before surgery?

If appropriate, modest weight loss may improve your recovery and reduce surgical risks.  Discuss this with your surgeon.

Do I need physiotherapy before surgery?

Many patients benefit from prehabilitation to improve strength, mobility and confidence before surgery.

Should I stop smoking?

Yes.  Stopping smoking before surgery reduces complications and improves healing.

How long before surgery should I prepare?

Ideally, preparation should begin several weeks before your operation, although even small changes shortly before surgery can still be beneficial.

Will I need help at home?

Most patients benefit from some assistance during the first one to two weeks, particularly with shopping, meal preparation and household tasks.

Is it normal to feel anxious?

Absolutely.  Feeling nervous before surgery is very common.  Learning about the operation and understanding the recovery process often helps patients feel more confident.

Before surgery, ask yourself:

✔ I understand my operation.

✔ I have completed my pre-operative assessment.

✔ My medical conditions are well controlled.

✔ I have arranged transport home.

✔ My home is prepared.

✔ I have organised help if needed.

✔ I have remained as active as possible.

✔ I know what to expect during recovery.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not replace personalised advice from your orthopaedic surgeon, GP or other healthcare professionals. Every patient's circumstances are different, and preparation should be tailored to your individual health and recovery goals.