Living with hip pain can turn simple, everyday activities into painful challenges. Whether it’s walking, climbing stairs, or even getting out of a chair, the hip joint plays a critical role in mobility. When conservative treatments no longer relieve discomfort, total hip replacement may be the most effective solution. With the help of leading hip replacement surgeons, this procedure can significantly restore joint function and reduce pain, improving quality of life.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what total hip replacement surgery involves, what causes hip degeneration, the recovery timeline, and how to choose the best orthopedic surgeon—particularly if you're seeking expert care from an orthopedic doctor in Montreal.

What is Total Hip Replacement?

Total hip replacement, or total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged portions of the hip joint with artificial components (prostheses). The surgery typically involves removing the femoral head (the “ball” of the ball-and-socket hip joint) and the damaged cartilage and bone within the hip socket (acetabulum), then replacing them with a ceramic or metal ball and a synthetic socket.

This form of hip replacement treatment is designed for patients who suffer from chronic joint pain and stiffness that limits daily activity and is not responsive to medication, therapy, or less invasive options.

Why Do People Need Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip degeneration can result from various conditions and injuries. According to orthopedic experts like Dr. Adam Hart, one of Canada’s renowned hip replacement surgeons, total hip replacement is usually recommended for:

1. Osteoarthritis

This age-related joint wear-and-tear condition erodes the protective cartilage in the hip, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation and tissue damage, making mobility painful and limited.

3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Hip trauma or fractures can lead to joint surface damage that evolves into chronic arthritis over time.

4. Avascular Necrosis

Poor blood supply to the femoral head can lead to bone collapse, a condition seen often in younger, active patients.

5. Hip Dysplasia or Congenital Issues

Some people are born with shallow hip sockets or misaligned joints, which can deteriorate faster than normal.

When these conditions progress, they may severely limit your mobility and quality of life. That’s when hip replacement treatment becomes the most effective path forward.

Who is a Candidate for Total Hip Replacement?

You're likely a good candidate for this procedure if:

You experience severe, consistent hip pain
Everyday movements like walking, bending, or standing are painful
Pain interferes with sleep or leisure activities
You’ve exhausted other treatments like medication, physical therapy, or steroid injections

An experienced orthopedic doctor in Montreal can assess your joint damage through physical exams, X-rays, or MRIs to determine whether surgery is right for you.

Types of Hip Replacement Surgery

There are different surgical techniques based on the patient’s condition and preferences. As advised by Dr Adam Hart, the approach and implants may vary depending on age, activity level, and bone structure.

1. Total Hip Replacement (THR)

Involves replacing both the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) with prosthetic components.

2. Anterior Approach Hip Replacement

This minimally invasive method allows surgeons to reach the hip joint from the front of the body, often resulting in faster recovery and less post-operative pain.

3. Posterior Approach Hip Replacement

A traditional and widely-used approach from the backside of the hip joint. This method provides excellent visibility and flexibility during the operation.

Discussing your options with the best orthopedic surgeon ensures that the approach is tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle.

Surgical Process: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Understanding the procedure can help ease concerns and prepare you for the road ahead.

Step 1: Preoperative Assessment

Your surgeon will order diagnostic tests including bloodwork, X-rays, and possibly a CT scan. This evaluation determines the joint condition and customizes the surgical plan.

Step 2: Anesthesia

You’ll receive either general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia based on your health profile and surgeon’s recommendation.

Step 3: Incision and Joint Preparation

An incision is made, and the damaged femoral head is removed. The acetabular socket is cleaned and reshaped to fit the new component.

Step 4: Implant Placement

The new metal stem is inserted into the femur and topped with a ceramic or metal ball
A polyethylene or ceramic cup is secured into the socket

Step 5: Closure and Recovery

The surgeon closes the incision, and you're moved to a recovery room for monitoring.

The total procedure typically lasts 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on complexity.

Hip Replacement Surgery Cost

The hip replacement surgery cost varies depending on several key factors:

Type of implant (metal, ceramic, hybrid)
Hospital or private surgical center fees
Anesthesia and diagnostic test costs
Post-operative rehab and physiotherapy
Surgeon’s fees

In Canada, public healthcare often covers medically necessary procedures. However, if you're pursuing private care for quicker scheduling or specific implant options, hip replacement surgery cost depending on services chosen.

You can consult an Orthopedic Doctor in Montreal to understand provincial coverage and potential private options for expedited treatment.

Recovery Timeline: What to Expect

According to Dr. Hart and other leading hip replacement surgeons, recovery involves both physical and emotional rehabilitation. Here's a general timeline:

Week 1–2:

Begin walking with the help of a walker or crutches
Start light physiotherapy exercises
Pain and swelling management

Week 3–6:

Improved range of motion and strength
Transition from walker to cane
Increase walking distance

Week 7–12:

Return to light household tasks
Resume driving (if approved)
Enhanced hip stability

After 3–6 Months:

Most patients return to full daily activities
Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling are encouraged
Continued joint strengthening through physical therapy

Full recovery typically occurs within 3 to 6 months, but this varies by age, health, and surgical approach. Working with a certified Orthopedic Doctor in Montreal ensures your recovery stays on track.

Benefits of Hip Replacement

Patients who undergo total hip replacement often experience:

Immediate pain relief
Improved mobility and range of motion
Ability to return to normal activities
Better sleep and mental health
Long-lasting joint function (implants can last 15–25 years)

When performed by the best orthopedic surgeons, the success rate of hip replacement is over 90%, making it one of the most effective orthopedic surgeries.

Risks and Complications

Although rare, complications can occur and should be discussed with your doctor. These may include:

Blood clots
Joint dislocation
Infection
Leg length discrepancy
Implant wear or loosening over time

Choosing an experienced hip replacement surgeon significantly reduces these risks.

Choosing the Right Hip Replacement Surgeon

A successful surgery depends on the surgeon’s expertise and your personalized care plan. When selecting the best orthopedic surgeon, consider the following:

Are they fellowship-trained in joint replacement?
Do they offer anterior or minimally invasive approaches?
What are their complication and revision rates?
Do they practice in a fully accredited facility?

If you’re based in Canada, working with a leading orthopedic doctor in Montreal who combines experience, compassion, and evidence-based techniques can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Total hip replacement is more than just a surgery—it’s a gateway to a pain-free, active life. Whether you’re struggling with arthritis, injury, or another joint condition, exploring hip replacement treatment under the guidance of a skilled hip replacement surgeon is a powerful step toward better mobility and independence.

With modern surgical options, advanced implant technology, and customized recovery plans, you can feel confident in your path to healing. From understanding the hip replacement surgery cost to connecting with the best orthopedic surgeon, being informed is the first step toward lasting joint relief.

What is Total Hip Replacement: Surgery Process, Causes & Recovery