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London Cartilage Clinic IconLondon Cartilage Clinic66 Harley Street
Patient experiencing hip joint pain

Hip Replacement

From £18,500
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Guide price only. Final cost is confirmed after assessment.

Hip replacement surgery removes the damaged surfaces of the hip joint and replaces them with precision-engineered prosthetic components. It is one of the most successful operations in modern medicine for relieving pain and restoring mobility. At London Cartilage Clinic, we offer total and partial hip replacement using patient-specific planning. Every patient is first assessed for biological and joint-preserving alternatives, because replacement should be the right decision, not the default one.

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Prof Paul LeeReviewed byProf Paul LeeLast reviewed 1 May 2026
Surgeon demonstrating hip anatomy on pelvic model

Surgical approach and implant selection

Hip replacement involves removing the damaged femoral head and lining the acetabulum with a new socket. A prosthetic stem is placed in the femur with a new ball that articulates within the socket.

  • Anterior or posterior approach selected based on anatomy and clinical factors.
  • Bearing surfaces chosen for durability relative to patient age and activity level.
  • Pre-operative templating to optimise leg length, offset, and implant fit.

Precision in implant positioning is one of the strongest predictors of long-term success. Our planning process ensures each component is placed to match your individual anatomy.

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Recovery and long-term outcomes

Hip replacement recovery is well-structured and predictable for most patients. The goal is early mobilisation, progressive strengthening, and a confident return to daily life and recreation.

  • Walking with support from day one, typically home within one to two days.
  • Driving and desk work resume around four to six weeks.
  • Recreational activity including walking, cycling, and swimming from six to twelve weeks.

Most patients describe hip replacement as life-changing. The aim is to eliminate the pain that limited your life and restore the mobility to enjoy it again.

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Active lifestyle after hip replacement surgery

You may have more options than you think

Most patients have more treatment options than they have been told

At London Cartilage Clinic we follow a structured clinical framework across four areas of treatment. Before recommending a single procedure, we assess which combination of approaches gives you the best outcome.

Preserve

Protect what you have. Slow degeneration and manage symptoms.

Repair

Fix specific damage. Torn tissue, unstable joints, structural problems.

Regenerate

Rebuild lost tissue. Biological treatments that stimulate new growth.

Replace

When other options are exhausted. Joint replacement as a last resort.

Explore the full range of treatments available for your joint. Each hub page shows every option we offer, organised by clinical approach.

Explore Hip Options
consulting-in-office-with-pen

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between anterior and posterior approach hip replacement?

The anterior approach accesses the hip from the front, working between muscles rather than cutting through them. This can support faster early recovery. The posterior approach is the most established technique and provides excellent exposure for complex cases. Your surgeon will recommend the approach best suited to your anatomy and condition.

What are the bearing surface options?

Modern hip replacements use combinations of ceramic, metal, and highly cross-linked polyethylene. Ceramic-on-ceramic and ceramic-on-polyethylene are the most common pairings. The choice depends on patient age, activity level, and anatomy. Your surgeon will discuss which combination is most appropriate.

How long does a hip replacement implant last?

Current data shows that over 90% of modern hip replacements are still functioning well at 15 to 20 years. Advances in bearing materials and surgical technique continue to improve longevity. Younger, more active patients benefit from careful implant selection to maximise durability.

When can I walk normally after hip replacement?

Most patients walk with a frame or crutches from the day of surgery. The walking aid is typically discarded within two to six weeks. A normal gait pattern usually returns within two to three months, though strength continues to improve for up to a year.

Why does London Cartilage Clinic try biological options before recommending hip replacement?

Hip replacement is a well-proven procedure, but it is a major operation with a finite implant lifespan. For many patients, biological treatments such as mFat, PRP, or hyaluronic acid injections can provide meaningful relief and delay the need for surgery. We ensure you have explored these options before proceeding.

Still have more specific concerns?

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London Cartilage Clinic

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