What to Expect After Anterior Hip Replacement Surgery

If you or a loved one is preparing for anterior total hip replacement surgery, one of the most common questions is: what does recovery actually look like? Dr. Zachary Weidner, an anterior hip replacement specialist serving the broader Northern Virginia area, walks you through what to expect.

Why Anterior Hip Replacement Is Different

Traditional hip replacement approaches (posterior or lateral) require cutting through major muscles around the hip. The anterior approach — which Dr. Weidner specializes in — accesses the hip joint from the front, working between muscle groups rather than through them. This means less damage to the surrounding tissue, less post-operative pain, and a faster return to normal activity for most patients.

The Day of Surgery

Most anterior hip replacements take 60–90 minutes. Many patients are walking with a walker just a few hours after surgery. Depending on your health and home situation, you may go home the same day (outpatient surgery) or after one overnight stay in the hospital.

Week 1–2: Getting Mobile

The first two weeks focus on safe movement and pain management. Most patients are able to:

•        Walk with a walker or cane

•        Climb stairs with assistance or handrails

•        Manage most daily activities with some help

•        Sleep comfortably with positional adjustments

Unlike posterior hip replacement, many anterior hip replacement patients have fewer movement restrictions — there is typically no 'hip precautions' list prohibiting bending or crossing legs.

Weeks 3–6: Gaining Strength

Physical therapy ramps up during this phase. Most patients transition off the walker and begin walking with a cane, many patients stop using a cane around 3 weeks or so after surgery. Pain and swelling continue to decrease. Many patients are driving (with the non-operative leg) by week 2-4.

3–6 Months: Full Recovery

By three to six months, most patients have returned to normal daily activities, recreational walking, golf, and light exercise. Full recovery — including the ability to do higher-impact activities — typically occurs by six to twelve months.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

•        Follow your physical therapy plan consistently

•        Keep the incision clean and dry as directed

•        Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Weidner

•        Ask questions — there are no silly questions during recovery

•        Reach out to the office at 703-393-1667 if you have concerns

Ready to Learn More?

If you live in Manassas, Haymarket, Gainesville, Woodbridge, Warrenton, or Centreville and are dealing with hip arthritis, Dr. Weidner offers consultations at his Manassas and Fair Oaks offices. Call 703-393-1667 or schedule online today.