Hip Resurfacing Perth: Patient Information and Benefits

Hip pain can quietly take control of daily life. Whether it’s struggling to walk long distances, feeling stiff when getting out of bed, or avoiding activities you once loved, the impact of hip arthritis or damage can be overwhelming. While total hip replacement has long been the standard solution, many patients are now considering hip resurfacing as a bone-preserving alternative.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know about hip resurfacing in Perth, from how the procedure works to its benefits, risks, and recovery process.

What Is Hip Resurfacing?

A Modern Alternative to Hip Replacement

Hip resurfacing is a surgical procedure where the damaged surfaces of the hip joint are trimmed and capped with smooth metal coverings. Unlike a total hip replacement, which removes the entire femoral head, hip resurfacing keeps more of your natural bone intact.

This makes it especially attractive for younger, active patients who may outlive a traditional implant and need revision surgery in the future.

Who Is It For?

Hip resurfacing is most commonly recommended for:

• Younger patients (often under 60)

• Active individuals wanting to return to sports or physically demanding jobs

• Patients with strong bone quality and no severe osteoporosis

How Hip Resurfacing Works

Step-by-Step Overview

1. Damaged cartilage on the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) is carefully shaved down.

2. A metal cap is placed over the reshaped femoral head.

3. The hip socket (acetabulum) is lined with a metal cup.

4. Together, these create a smooth, low-friction joint surface.

Because the femoral head is preserved rather than replaced, the procedure maintains natural bone structure, which is especially helpful if a total hip replacement is required later in life.

Surgical Time

The surgery usually takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Why Patients in Perth Consider Hip Resurfacing

Living with hip arthritis or injury doesn’t just limit movement—it impacts mental well-being, work, and relationships. Many patients in Perth choose hip resurfacing because it:

• Preserves more bone compared to total hip replacement

• Provides a greater range of motion

• Reduces the risk of dislocation (a common complication of hip replacement)

• May last longer in active patients

According to international studies, 10-year survival rates for hip resurfacing implants are as high as 96%, particularly among male patients under 55.

Benefits of Hip Resurfacing

Bone Preservation

The most significant advantage is that the femoral head is not removed. This means if another surgery is needed in the future, the revision is simpler compared to a failed hip replacement.

Improved Stability

Because the resurfaced femoral head is larger than the artificial ball used in total hip replacement, the joint tends to be more stable and less prone to dislocation.

Better Range of Motion

Many patients report being able to sit cross-legged, squat, and return to sports after recovery—movements sometimes limited after total replacement.

Longevity

Research suggests that in carefully selected patients, hip resurfacing can last 15–20 years or longer, making it a durable option for younger patients.

Risks and Limitations

Like all surgeries, hip resurfacing carries risks. While complications are relatively uncommon, patients should be aware of:

• Metal Ion Release: Because the implant uses metal-on-metal surfaces, tiny particles can be released into the bloodstream. Regular monitoring is often recommended.

• Femoral Neck Fracture: Rare but possible, particularly in patients with weaker bone quality.

• Infection: Occurs in about 1–2% of hip surgeries.

• Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury: Very rare, but a potential risk in any major joint surgery.

Not everyone is a candidate. For example, patients with osteoporosis, small bone structure, or severe deformity may be better suited for total hip replacement.

The Hip Resurfacing Procedure

Before Surgery

Preparation usually includes:

• Medical evaluations (blood tests, ECG, imaging)

• Pre-surgery physiotherapy (“prehab”)

• Lifestyle adjustments such as quitting smoking or reducing alcohol consumption

During Surgery

• Performed under spinal or general anaesthesia

• Damaged bone and cartilage are carefully removed

• Metal caps and sockets are implanted

• Incision is closed and dressing applied

After Surgery

• Hospital stay is typically 2–4 days

• Physiotherapy begins within 24 hours

• Walking aids are used for the first few weeks

Recovery Timeline

First Few Weeks

• Pain and swelling improve gradually

• Patients walk with support from crutches or a walker

• Stitches or staples are removed at 10–14 days

6 Weeks

• Most patients can walk independently

• Driving is usually safe to resume

• Low-impact exercises are introduced

3–6 Months

• Significant improvements in strength and flexibility

• Return to office jobs and light physical activities

• Some patients resume sports like swimming, cycling, or golf

Long-Term

• Many patients enjoy pain-free movement for 15 years or more

• Regular check-ups ensure the implant is functioning well

Comparing Hip Resurfacing and Hip Replacement

Success Rates and Statistics

• According to the AOANJRR (Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry), hip resurfacing is less common than total hip replacement but still delivers excellent outcomes in selected patients.

• International research shows that over 90% of patients are satisfied with their resurfacing results after 10 years.

• Men under 55 have the best long-term outcomes, with implants lasting 15+ years in most cases.

Life After Hip Resurfacing

Activities You Can Do

• Swimming

• Walking

• Golf

• Cycling

• Light jogging (with clearance from your surgeon)

Activities to Avoid

• High-impact sports like basketball or marathon running

• Heavy lifting that strains the hip joint

Maintaining an active lifestyle without overloading the joint is key to long-term success.

Choosing the Right Surgeon in Perth

One of the most important steps in your journey is selecting the right specialist. Hip resurfacing requires precision and experience, as it’s a more technically demanding procedure than hip replacement. Many patients prefer consulting an experienced orthopaedic surgeon Perth who has a track record with joint resurfacing and joint replacement surgeries.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Follow your physiotherapy plan closely

• Use walking aids as instructed

• Maintain a healthy diet for healing and bone strength

• Keep follow-up appointments to monitor progress

• Stay active, but avoid overloading the new joint

Patient Satisfaction

Research highlights that patients who undergo hip resurfacing often enjoy:

• Greater confidence in movement

• Reduced pain and stiffness

• High satisfaction rates, with 85–95% reporting positive results

• The ability to return to hobbies and sports that once seemed impossible

Conclusion

Hip resurfacing offers an exciting alternative to traditional hip replacement, especially for younger and more active patients in Perth. With benefits such as bone preservation, improved stability, and a greater range of motion, it’s no surprise that many people are exploring this option. While it isn’t suitable for everyone, the procedure provides excellent results in the right candidates.