Can you have 2 hip replacements at once?
James Craig
Published Jan 15, 2026
A double hip replacement is when both of your hip joints are replaced. People that have a double hip replacement often have damage or degeneration that severely affects both sides of their hips. Double hip replacements can be either simultaneous or staged. During a simultaneous procedure, both joints are replaced.
How long does it take to recover from two hip replacements?
You'll likely be able to return to most of your daily activities, including driving, in about 6 weeks. Full recovery may take 1 year or more. It's important to talk to your doctor about how to prepare for this surgery and what the recovery period involves.
Is second hip replacement easier?
The procedure is technically more difficult than primary hip replacements and the effects on the patient are more significant (longer surgery, more blood loss).
Is the second hip replacement worse than the first?
The procedure is more complex and difficult than the initial hip or knee replacement. Yet, studies show that more than 9 out of 10 people who undergo revision surgery have good to excellent results.
How long does it take to walk after a double hip replacement?
Most hip replacement patients are able to walk within the same day or next day of surgery; most can resume normal routine activities within the first 3 to 6 weeks of their total hip replacement recovery. Once light activity becomes possible, it's important to incorporate healthy exercise into your recovery program.
39 related questions foundCan you have hip surgery on both hips at the same time?
Some patients have degenerative problems in both hips and, with their surgeon's guidance, may consider having both hips replaced at the same time. This is called bilateral total hip replacement. It may also be referred to as simultaneous total hip replacement.
How long are you on bed rest after a hip replacement?
How do I safely rest and sleep after a hip replacement? Elevate both of your legs when sitting to minimize swelling. When resting or sleeping in bed, lie on your non-operative side for the first four to six weeks following surgery.
What is the average age for a hip replacement?
The Arthritis Foundation reports that most people who undergo hip replacement surgery are between ages 50 and 80. Even if you aren't in that age range, a hip replacement can still be a safe and life-changing surgery for people far younger and for people in their 90s.
How do they do a second hip replacement?
Once the original implants have been removed, your surgeon will prepare the bones for the new implant. Revision implants are often larger than the original implants to make up for the bone loss. Metal augments may also be added to the implant for this reason so that the hip is in proper alignment.
How long does it take to walk normally after hip surgery?
3 to 6 Weeks After Hip Replacement Surgery
You'll likely be able to walk without a walker or crutches.
How do you know when you need a second hip replacement?
How Do You Know If You Need a Hip Replacement?
- You Have Chronic and Significant Pain. ...
- Your Hip Disability Makes Completing Routine Tasks Difficult. ...
- Hip Stiffness Limits Your Normal Range of Motion in the Joint. ...
- Conservative Treatments Do Not Adequately Relieve Hip Pain.
Which method of hip replacement is the best?
The posterior approach to total hip replacement is the most commonly used method and allows the surgeon excellent visibility of the joint, more precise placement of implants and is minimally invasive.
How painful is hip replacement surgery?
You can expect to experience some discomfort in the hip region itself, as well as groin pain and thigh pain. This is normal as your body adjusts to changes made to joints in that area. There can also be pain in the thigh and knee that is typically associated with a change in the length of your leg.
Which is more painful hip or knee replacement?
A hip replacement is a much less painful operation. People are on crutches for a while, and then their hips feel normal. But it takes six months to a year to recover from total knee surgery, and even then, the knee just doesn't feel normal.
Can you have both hips resurfaced at the same time?
If you get both done you will be what we call a Bi-lat Hippy. That just means you had bilateral hip resurfacing. Whether they are done on the same day or are separated by days, weeks or months depends a lot on your surgeon and what he/she prefers.
What are the first signs of needing a hip replacement?
Here are some warning signs that it's the right time for surgery
- Stiffness.
- Arthritic or damaged hip joints.
- Persistent pain in the hip or groin.
- Pain that does not respond to other treatments.
- Hips experiencing inflammation or swelling.
What are the disadvantages of hip replacement?
Three Cons of Hip Replacement
- Possible Infections. Dr. Sutphen: A minimal number of surgery patients (roughly around 1%) can develop an infection around their hip replacement. ...
- Potential for Change in Leg Length. Dr. ...
- Possible Mechanical Complications.
Does walking help arthritis in the hip?
Walking: Bone and joint specialists suggest that walking is one of the best forms of exercise for hip arthritis. Walking boosts blood flow to your cartilage, giving it the nutrients necessary to provide cushion to the ends of your joints.
How do you poop after hip surgery?
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat foods high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, to prevent constipation. Use a stool softener while taking pain medication. Take a laxative if you do not have a bowel movement within two to three days. Notify your doctor if you don't have results after taking the laxative.
Can you go home same day after hip replacement?
Same-day surgeries, also called outpatient surgery, are when a patient safely leaves the hospital to recover at home the same day as the surgery. About one-third to one-half of my patients with a knee or hip replacement surgeries can go home the same day as their procedures.
How long do you stay in the hospital after hip surgery?
Recovering from hip replacement surgery
You'll usually be in hospital for 3 to 5 days, but recovery time can vary. Once you're ready to be discharged, your hospital will give you advice about looking after your hip at home.
How often are both hips replaced?
Your new hip is designed to serve you well for a long time, but it won't last forever. If you're young and active, you may need the same hip replaced again down the road. 95% of hip replacements last at least 10 years, about 75% last 15 to 20 years, and just over half last 25 years or more.
Can I go back to work 2 weeks after hip replacement?
Work. If you have a desk job with minimal activity, you can return to work in about two weeks. If your job requires heavy lifting or is otherwise tough on the hips, it is recommended to take off about six weeks to recover.
Can I have an MRI with a hip replacement?
Yes. MRI scans of other parts of your body are safe after hip replacement. Although some old MRI scanning equipment may not be compatible with your prosthesis, the majority of MRI scanning equipment today is safe and compatible with hip replacement parts.