Where is the scar for posterior hip replacement?
Sarah Smith
Published Jan 20, 2026
Patients who have had a posterior approach typically have a curved scar on the outside of the thigh with a top part of the scar curving into the buttock.
Where is the incision for a posterior hip replacement?
Overview. The posterior approach to hip replacement is the more common approach of the two. During this procedure, an incision is made behind the hip joint, in the low back/buttock region. After the incision is made, the hip surgeon will need to access the hip by cutting through muscle and tissue.
How long is the incision for a posterior hip replacement?
The surgeon makes a 4-6 inch incision just behind the hip, along the buttock area. The surgery takes 60-70 minutes. It is the most common approach and provides the greatest patient safety.
Is posterior hip replacement more painful than anterior?
Advantages of anterior hip replacement:
Less pain. Less chance of hip dislocation. Less chance of long-term limping.
What muscles are cut in posterior hip replacement surgery?
Posterior Hip Replacement Method
Cuts are made through the gluteus maximus and some external hip rotators, which are major muscles. This can take longer to heal.
22 related questions foundWhat are the disadvantages of posterior hip replacement?
Disadvantages
- Not everyone is a good candidate. The surgery might not be appropriate for the very obese. ...
- It is a longer procedure. The surgery takes about 90-100 minutes versus 60-70 minutes for a posterior hip replacement.
- The surgery has a steep learning curve.
Are there permanent restrictions after posterior hip replacement?
You need to remain under total hip precautions for about 12 weeks. During this period, don't turn your toes in or out. Avoid crossing your legs as well. Make sure you keep all your follow-up appointments and ask your surgeon to tell you when you're free to bend beyond 90 degrees or bend down to pick things up.
What are advantages of posterior hip replacement?
The advantages of posterior approach include:
- High success rate.
- Minimally invasive.
- No muscle damage.
- More precise placement of implants.
- Allows excellent visibility of the joint.
Why would a surgeon do a posterior hip replacement?
Posterior hip replacement is the most common approach to total hip replacement surgery. The incision is made behind the hip avoiding the major walking muscles. Posterior hip replacement surgery helps to regain the normal function and stability of the hip joint in patients with arthritis.
Which hip replacement approach is best anterior or posterior?
The anterior approach to hip replacement tends to provide the surgeon with a more limited view of the hip joint during surgery, making the surgery technically challenging, especially for less experienced surgeons. The posterior and direct lateral approaches provide the surgeon with a better view of the hip joint.
What happens after posterior hip replacement?
Four weeks after a posterior approach you will usually be able to walk without assisting devices. Your walking distance will vary between 5 and 25 blocks. You should be able to reach your shoes and socks after your four-week appointment. You also should be able to drive a car after four weeks.
What is the newest procedure for hip replacement?
The latest advanced technology, a percutaneously-assisted “SUPERPATH™” approach, involves sparing the surrounding muscles and tendons when performing total hip replacement surgery. This technique builds a traditional hip implant in-place without cutting any muscles or tendons.
How should I sleep after posterior hip replacement?
Sleeping Position Tips After Total Hip Replacement Surgery
- Sleep on a firm bed or mattress.
- Use a pillow(s) between your knees to avoid crossing your surgical leg across the middle of your body.
- Change positions as you become uncomfortable.
What can you never do again after a hip replacement?
Some common things to avoid after hip replacement surgery include:
- Don't resist getting up and moving around. ...
- Don't bend at the waist more than 90 degrees. ...
- Don't lift your knees up past your hips. ...
- Don't cross your legs. ...
- Don't twist or pivot at the hip. ...
- Don't rotate your feet too far inward or outward.
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.
What is the best hip replacement to have?
The Taperloc femoral hip replacement is one of the best hip replacements used in the world – for any age and activity level. As the most successful titanium hip, the Taperloc femoral component has proven to stay firmly attached even after 28 years, allowing countless people to live life on their terms.
How far should I walk each day after hip replacement?
We recommend that you walk two to three times a day for about 20-30 minutes each time. You should get up and walk around the house every 1-2 hours. Eventually you will be able to walk and stand for more than 10 minutes without putting weight on your walker or crutches. Then you can graduate to a cane.
How far should I be walking 4 weeks after hip replacement?
During weeks 3-5, walking endurance usually increases if you have been consistent with your home program. Weeks 4-5: Ambulation distances up to 1 mile (2-3 city blocks), resting as needed. Weeks 5-6: Ambulation distances of 1-2 miles; able to meet shopping needs once released to driving.
Is a recliner good after hip replacement?
Try to sit in a straight back chair (avoid low sofas, recliners, or zero-gravity chairs) for the first 6 weeks. Do NOT sleep in a recliner. Your hip will get stiff in a flexed position and be harder to straighten out. Do not extend your hip or leg backwards for 6 weeks.
Is posterior hip replacement minimally invasive?
The posterior approach to total hip replacement is a minimally invasive surgical technique where the replacement of the damaged hip joint is made through the side of the hip, along the outer buttock area, and is the most commonly used approach.
What is the average age of a hip replacement patient?
Today, the average hip replacement age is younger than ever. Thanks to baby boomers looking for a continued active lifestyle and the advancement of artificial joints, the average age of hip replacement patients is just under 65 years old and continues to decline.
How big is the incision for total hip replacement?
With traditional hip replacement, surgeons cut a six to 12-inch incision along the thigh, cutting through the muscle and tendon, to reach the hip joint, causing more blood loss.
What are the hip precautions for posterior approach?
What are some precautions for self-care after hip replacement surgery (posterior)?
- Keep your toes pointing forward or slightly out. Don't rotate your leg too far to the inside.
- Do not bend your hip more than 90 degrees.
- Keep your knees apart. Don't cross your legs.
What's the youngest person to have a hip replacement?
What is the youngest age that someone can have a hip replacement? The youngest patient that I have performed a hip replacement on was 20 years of age. We obviously try to avoid doing hip replacements on such young patients.
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.