Hip · Total Replacement
A hip designed for your life.
Hip replacement is one of the most successful operations in modern medicine, but success is measured by more than an X-ray.
When hip replacement makes sense
Most patients begin with conservative treatment: activity modification, medications, injections, or physical therapy. When pain begins limiting daily life despite these treatments, hip replacement may provide lasting relief.
The decision is based on your symptoms, examination, imaging, and personal goals, not imaging alone.
How your procedure is personalized
No two hips are identical. Implant selection, component positioning, leg length, stability, and recovery planning are individualized for every patient.
Dr. Seem uses modern planning tools and surgical technology to improve precision, while relying on experience and sound surgical judgment for every decision.
What the first weeks look like
Most patients begin walking the day of surgery. Recovery continues over the following months through progressive activity, strengthening, and individualized follow-up. The goal is a safe recovery that returns you to the activities most important to you.
Before you decide
Your hip, specifically
- How long does recovery take?
- Most patients see meaningful improvement during the first several months, although recovery continues for up to a year.
- Will I need physical therapy?
- Recommendations are individualized based on your needs and recovery.
- How long do hip replacements last?
- Modern implants are designed for excellent long-term durability, although longevity varies by patient.
- When can I drive again?
- You should not be taking pain medication, and you should feel safe and in control behind the wheel, including being able to brake firmly without hesitation. There is no formal clearance for driving; the judgment is yours. Most patients are back to driving around three to four weeks after surgery, some sooner and some later, and hip replacement patients often return a little earlier than knee patients.
- When can I shower?
- Most of Dr. Seem’s patients are able to shower right away after surgery. The rule is simple: do not submerge the incision. Showers are fine, but no baths, hot tubs, or pools until the incision is fully healed and Dr. Seem tells you it is safe. Follow the dressing instructions you receive at discharge.
- Will I have hip precautions?
- With the anterior approach many patients have few or no traditional movement restrictions, which is one of its practical advantages. Any precautions you do have depend on your approach, your anatomy, and how your hip felt during surgery; you will be told exactly what applies to you before you go home.
Next step
Ready to talk through your options with Dr. Seem?