Hip replacement surgery has come a long way in the past two decades. Still, many people hesitate to move forward because of outdated information or misconceptions about the procedure. If you are considering hip surgery or simply want to understand more, we have put together this guide to debunk some of the most common myths.
In fact, many myths about joint replacement, from how long you’ll be in hospital to how long your implant will last, are no longer true; thanks to modern surgical techniques and recovery protocols like ours at Orthopaedic Innovation.
Myth 1: “You’re too young to need a hip replacement”
Reality:
While hip replacements were once thought to be a procedure reserved for older adults, they are now increasingly common among younger patients in their 40s and 50s. Thanks to major advancements in implant materials and surgical techniques, hip replacements now last longer and perform better; making them a viable option for active adults suffering from joint damage.
Age alone is not a deciding factor. According to NICE guidelines1, hip replacement should be considered only based on a patient's level of pain, mobility, and impact on daily life: not their age.
Delaying surgery can sometimes lead to worse outcomes, including chronic pain, reduced mobility, and muscle deterioration.
Myth 2: “You’ll be in hospital for weeks”
Reality:
This may have been true decades ago, but today’s minimally invasive techniques and enhanced recovery protocols significantly shorten hospital stays. At Orthopaedic Innovation, most patients go home the same day following a Kley Rapid Hip replacement. Long hospital stays are now the exception, not the rule.
Learn more about our Kley Rapid Hip approach.
Myth 3: “You’ll never be able to move the same again”
Reality:
The goal of modern hip replacement is to restore full function; and most patients report better mobility than they had before surgery.
With physical therapy and appropriate post-op care, you can return to walking, swimming, cycling, and many other activities within weeks.
While a stick or frame may be used briefly during recovery, the majority of patients regain full independence and mobility without aids; especially when following a structured physiotherapy plan.
Myth 4: “The recovery process is long and painful”
Reality:
Recovery is significantly easier today thanks to less invasive surgical techniques and better pain management.
Approaches like Orthopaedic Innovation’s, focus on early mobilisation, reduced need for strong painkillers, and personalised rehabilitation.
Following the Kley Rapid Hip pathway, patients often walk within hours and return to normal activities within two to four weeks; often telling our team they are surprised by how manageable the recovery is.
Myth 5: “Hip replacements don’t last very long”
Reality:
Are you wondering how long does a hip replacement last in active adults? With good joint care and implant choice, active individuals can often expect decades of function from their prosthesis.
Read more on our blog: How Long Does a Hip Replacement Last?
Myth 6: “Hip replacements are only for severe cases”
Reality:
You don’t have to wait until your quality of life is significantly compromised or impaired to consider a hip replacement. Early intervention can help prevent further joint damage and preserve muscle strength; both of which can improve your long-term recovery.
If you're experiencing persistent pain, stiffness, or difficulty with everyday tasks, it might be time to talk to a specialist.
Myth 7: “Surgery is risky and should only be a last resort”
Reality:
While all surgeries carry risk, hip replacement is one of the safest and most effective and life changing procedures in orthopaedics today.
At Orthopaedic Innovation, our Kley Rapid Hip programme is designed to reduce those risks dramatically. Through minimally invasive techniques, modified surgical approaches, and enhanced post-op care, we have achieved:
- 0% infection rate in the UK
- 0% dislocation or fracture rate in the UK
- 0% blood clot rate in the UK
These outcomes are the result of years of research, specialist expertise (Over 15 years with this technique alone), and continuous improvement.
Our programme is led by internationally recognised surgeons including Doctor Kristian Kley and Professor Adrian Wilson, who are pioneers in minimally invasive hip surgery.
You can read more on our Kley Rapid Hip page.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Held Back by Misinformation
If you have been living with hip pain, struggling with mobility, or feel unsure about what surgery might involve, separating fact from fiction is essential. These myths about joint replacement can prevent people from seeking treatment that could dramatically improve their quality of life.
We are here to answer your questions and guide you through what to expect.
Visit our Contact page to talk with a member of our surgical team.
