Discover what to expect before, during, and after hip and knee replacement surgery. Dr. Amir Azam, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon in North Wales, explains everything patients need to know.
As an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in hip and knee surgery, one of the most common conversations I have with patients in North Wales is about joint replacement. Most people have heard about hip or knee replacements, but very few actually know what the journey looks like – from the first consultation to walking confidently again.
Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery in North Wales – Expert Guide
If you’re struggling with daily pain, stiffness, or limited mobility, I want to share with you what you really need to know before considering hip or knee replacement surgery.
When is it time to consider surgery?
Not every patient with hip or knee pain needs a replacement. In fact, many can be managed with physiotherapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. I usually recommend surgery only when:
- Pain persists despite non-surgical treatment
- Daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sleeping are difficult
- The joint is severely damaged due to arthritis, injury, or wear-and-tear
It’s important to understand that surgery is never the “first step.” It’s the step we take when nothing else works — and the aim is always to improve your quality of life.
What actually happens during the procedure?
Many patients feel anxious because of uncertainty. A hip or knee replacement essentially involves removing the damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with a prosthetic implant designed to mimic natural movement.
- Hip replacement: The ball-and-socket joint is replaced with a prosthetic ball and the socket.
- Knee replacement: Damaged cartilage and bone are resurfaced with a metal and plastic implant.
These implants are designed to last 10 – 15 years (often longer), meaning many patients only need the surgery once in their lifetime.
What does recovery look like?
This is the most common question I get. Recovery is a team effort between the surgeon, physiotherapists, and most importantly, the patient.
- Hospital stay is usually short – many patients go home within 2–3 days.
- You’ll start moving the same day or the next day after surgery.
- Physiotherapy is crucial to regain strength and mobility.
- Most patients walk more comfortably within 6-8 weeks.
The key message: hip and knee replacement is not about “getting surgery done” but about “working together for a new life after surgery.”
Patient outcomes and success rates
Modern hip and knee replacement surgeries have success rates of over 80-90%. The vast majority of my patients return to activities they thought were lost forever – walking in the countryside, biking, travelling, or even playing with grandchildren without pain.
Hearing them say, “I wish I had done this earlier” is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
Common fears patients share with me
I want to address some concerns patients usually hesitate to talk about:
- Fear of pain: With modern anaesthesia and pain management, pain is controlled effectively.
- Fear of complications: Risks exist, but with the right precautions and experienced hands, complications are rare and overall risk is low.
- Fear of failure: Replacement surgeries are among the most successful procedures in modern medicine with a success rate of over 80-90%.
Final Thoughts
If you are living with constant joint pain, hip and knee replacement can truly transform your life. My goal as your surgeon is not only to perform a successful operation but to ensure you feel supported at every step – before, during, and long after surgery.
Don’t let joint pain define your future. The right time to seek help is now.
Struggling with Hip or Knee Pain? I’m Dr. Amir Azam, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon (MBBS, MS (Orth), MRCS, FRCS (Orth)) in North Wales. With years of experience in hip and knee surgery, my focus is on providing safe, effective treatments tailored to you.
Book your consultation today and take the first step towards safe and effective recovery.
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