Hip Replacement Types: Total, Partial, and Revision

Different types of hip replacements include Hip Replacement: Candidates, Implant Types, and Recovery Expectations" class="ahp-ilk">total hip replacement, partial hip replacement, hip resurfacing and revision hip replacement. The most suitable operation depends on the cause of hip damage, bone quality, age, activity needs, general health and the condition of the joint.

Overview: what are the different types of hip replacements?

Different types of hip replacements are designed to restore movement and reduce pain when the hip joint is severely damaged. In a hip replacement, a surgeon removes and replaces damaged joint surfaces with artificial components, called implants. The operation may be recommended when non-surgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief or when a fracture has disrupted the joint.

The main procedures are total hip replacement, partial hip replacement, hip resurfacing and revision hip replacement. They differ in how much bone and joint surface is replaced, why surgery is needed and who may be a suitable candidate. A specialist considers the person’s diagnosis, symptoms, imaging results, bone strength, medical history and everyday activity goals before making a recommendation.

Hip replacement is commonly used for advanced osteoarthritis, but it may also help people with inflammatory arthritis, osteonecrosis, some fractures and certain hip deformities. The goal is not to select the most extensive procedure, but to choose the operation that appropriately addresses the individual hip problem.

How the hip joint works and why replacement may be needed

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The rounded top of the thigh bone, called the femoral head, fits into a cup-shaped part of the pelvis called the acetabulum. Smooth cartilage normally covers the joint surfaces, allowing the hip to move with little friction.

With arthritis or injury, cartilage may wear away and the underlying bone can become irritated or altered. This can cause persistent groin, buttock or thigh pain, stiffness, reduced walking tolerance and difficulty with activities such as putting on shoes, climbing stairs or getting out of a chair. Hip symptoms can also affect sleep and independence.

Doctors generally begin with a careful assessment and non-surgical measures where appropriate. These may include activity adjustment, physiotherapy, weight management when relevant, walking aids and medicines recommended by a clinician. When pain and loss of function remain substantial despite these measures, hip replacement surgery may be discussed.

Total hip replacement: replacing the ball and socket

Total hip replacement, also called total hip arthroplasty, is the most frequently performed form of hip replacement. It replaces both damaged sides of the joint: the femoral head is removed and replaced with a stem and ball component, while the damaged socket is fitted with a cup-shaped component. A liner sits within the cup to create a smooth bearing surface.

The implants may be made from combinations of metal, ceramic and durable plastic. Components can be secured using bone cement or designed for bone to grow into their surface over time. The choice of implant materials and fixation method is individualized; it is based on factors such as bone quality, anatomy, age and the surgeon’s clinical judgement.

Total hip replacement is often considered for severe osteoarthritis affecting both the ball and socket, as well as some cases of inflammatory arthritis, osteonecrosis or major joint damage. Many people experience improved pain and mobility after recovery, although results vary and the new joint still needs sensible lifelong care.

Partial hip replacement, hip resurfacing and revision surgery

Partial hip replacement, also called hemiarthroplasty, replaces the femoral head but does not replace the socket. It is most often used for selected hip fractures, particularly fractures of the femoral neck in older adults. It may be preferred when the socket cartilage is not significantly damaged and replacing the femoral side is sufficient to restore stability and function.

Hip resurfacing is a bone-conserving alternative to total replacement for a limited group of patients. Rather than removing the entire femoral head, the surgeon reshapes and caps it with a metal component, while also replacing the socket surface. It is not suitable for everyone, especially people with poor bone quality, certain anatomical features or medical factors that increase the risk of complications. The surgeon will explain the specific implant considerations and follow-up needs.

Revision hip replacement is a further operation performed when a previous hip implant has a problem. Reasons can include wear, loosening, instability, infection around the implant, fracture near the implant or persistent symptoms with an identified cause. Revision procedures can be more complex than a first replacement because bone and soft tissue may need additional reconstruction.

• Total replacement: replaces both the femoral head and socket.
• Partial replacement: replaces the femoral head only, commonly for selected fractures.
• Resurfacing: preserves more femoral bone in carefully selected candidates.
• Revision replacement: repairs or replaces part or all of an existing implant.

Choosing an approach and preparing for surgery

Hip replacements can be performed through different surgical approaches, meaning different paths through the muscles and tissues around the hip. Common approaches include posterior, lateral and anterior approaches. Each can be effective in appropriate hands, and no single approach is best for every person.

The choice depends on the underlying hip condition, body shape, previous surgery, implant plan, bone quality and the surgeon’s expertise. It is useful for patients to ask why a particular approach is being recommended, what rehabilitation may involve and whether any individual precautions are advised during early recovery.

Preparation usually includes a medical review, imaging such as X-rays, and blood tests or other assessments when needed. Smoking cessation, management of long-term conditions, nutrition support and strengthening exercises may help prepare the body for surgery. The care team also reviews current medicines, including blood-thinning medication, and gives individualized instructions before the procedure.

Recovery, rehabilitation and expected results

Recovery begins soon after surgery. Most people are encouraged to start moving with support from a physiotherapist or trained healthcare professional as soon as it is safe. Early movement helps restore confidence, circulation and muscle function, while a walking aid may be used temporarily.

Rehabilitation focuses on safe walking, transfers, strengthening, balance and gradually returning to everyday activities. The pace of recovery differs between individuals and may be influenced by the reason for surgery, preoperative fitness, the type of procedure, pain control, home support and other health conditions. Patients should follow their surgical team’s advice about wound care, bathing, driving, work, exercise and movement precautions.

Many people have meaningful improvement in pain and daily function after hip replacement, but it is important to have realistic expectations. Full recovery can take several months, and some activities may remain more comfortable than others. Low-impact activity is often encouraged after recovery, while the surgical team can advise on sports, heavy lifting and movements that may place stress on the new joint.

Hip implants are designed for long-term use, but they do not last indefinitely for every person. Regular follow-up can help monitor function and identify concerns early, particularly if pain, instability or reduced mobility develops after an initially successful recovery.

Risks, self-care and protecting the new hip

Like all major surgery, hip replacement has potential risks. These can include infection, blood clots, bleeding, dislocation, leg-length difference, nerve or blood vessel injury, fracture and problems with the implant over time. Serious complications are not inevitable, and the surgical team takes steps to reduce risk, but patients should understand the potential benefits and limitations before consenting to surgery.

After discharge, taking prescribed medicines as directed, attending rehabilitation, caring for the wound and following activity guidance are important parts of recovery. Keeping pathways clear at home, using recommended mobility aids and arranging support for meals or personal tasks can reduce the risk of falls in the early weeks.

Longer-term self-care includes maintaining regular physical activity appropriate for the new joint, protecting bone health and discussing any new symptoms promptly with a doctor. Dental, skin and urinary infections should be treated appropriately because infections can occasionally spread through the bloodstream. Patients should tell healthcare professionals that they have a joint implant when receiving medical or dental care.

When to seek medical care

People should arrange a medical assessment for persistent hip pain, worsening stiffness, reduced ability to walk, pain that disrupts sleep or difficulty managing normal daily activities. A doctor can determine whether symptoms come from the hip itself or from another source, such as the lower back, pelvis or surrounding muscles.

Urgent medical care is important after hip surgery if there is increasing redness, warmth, swelling or drainage from the wound; fever or feeling unwell; sudden worsening pain; a new inability to bear weight; chest pain; shortness of breath; or painful swelling in one calf or leg. These symptoms need prompt assessment, as they may indicate a complication requiring treatment.

For people considering surgery, an orthopedic evaluation provides an opportunity to review all options and make an informed decision. Acıbadem Health Point’s multidisciplinary specialists and JCI-accredited hospitals diagnose and treat hip conditions for international patients, with care plans tailored to clinical needs and recovery goals.

Frequently asked questions