A partial hip replacement replaces only the ball of your hip joint, not the socket

In a partial hip replacement, a surgeon removes the femoral head—the ball-shaped top of your thighbone—and replaces it with a metal or ceramic implant. The socket of your hip joint stays in place. This is different from a total hip replacement, where both the ball and socket are replaced. Partial replacement is most common after a hip fracture near the top of the thighbone, especially in older adults, because it is often faster to perform and requires less bone removal than a total replacement.

The surgery typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. You will be under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia (numbing from the waist down). The surgeon makes an incision near your hip, removes the damaged femoral head, and cements or presses the new implant into place. After surgery, you will spend one to three nights in the hospital and then move to rehabilitation or home care while you heal.

Key Takeaways

  • A partial hip replacement removes only the ball of the hip joint and replaces it with a metal or ceramic implant, leaving the socket untouched.
  • This procedure is most often used to treat hip fractures in older adults because it takes less time and removes less bone than a total replacement.
  • Recovery typically involves physical therapy starting within days of surgery, with most people walking with information within one to two weeks.
  • Complications can include infection, blood clots, and implant loosening, though serious problems are uncommon when the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon.

When doctors recommend a partial hip replacement

A partial replacement is usually recommended after a fracture of the femoral neck—the narrow section of bone just below the ball of the hip. These fractures are common in older adults after a fall, especially those with osteoporosis. If the fracture breaks the blood supply to the femoral head, the bone can die, and replacement becomes necessary. A partial replacement is preferred in these cases because it preserves the socket, which is often still healthy.

Younger patients with hip fractures may be offered a total replacement instead, because a partial replacement can sometimes lead to socket wear over time. Your surgeon will consider your age, bone quality, activity level, and the exact location of the fracture when deciding which procedure is right for you.

What to expect during recovery

Physical therapy begins within one to two days after surgery. A therapist will help you learn to walk with a walker or crutches, and you will practice gentle movements to prevent stiffness. Most people can put some weight on the leg within the first week, though how much depends on your surgeon's instructions and your bone quality. By two to three weeks, many patients can walk with a cane or walker without crutches.

Full recovery takes three to six months. During this time, you will gradually increase your activity—walking longer distances, climbing stairs, and returning to light household tasks. Pain and swelling usually decrease steadily over the first six weeks. You may feel tired more easily than before surgery; this is normal and improves as your strength returns. Avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping for at least three to six months, even if you feel ready.

Potential complications and how they are managed

Infection is the most serious early complication, occurring in fewer than 2 percent of cases. Signs include fever, increasing redness or warmth around the incision, or drainage. Tell your surgeon when ready if you notice these. Antibiotics or, rarely, a second surgery may be needed.

Blood clots can form in the leg veins after hip surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe blood-thinning medication or recommend compression stockings to reduce this risk. Swelling, warmth, or calf pain that does not improve with elevation should be reported right away.

Implant loosening or wear of the socket can happen over time, especially if you are very active. This may require a second surgery years later. Dislocation—where the ball slips out of the socket—is rare but can happen if you move your hip in certain ways during early recovery. Your physical therapist will teach you positions to avoid.

How a partial replacement differs from a total replacement

In a total hip replacement, both the ball and socket are replaced with implants. This takes longer to perform and requires more bone removal. However, a total replacement may last longer and may be better for younger, more active patients. A partial replacement preserves bone and is faster, making it ideal for older patients or those with fractures.

The choice between partial and total depends on your age, the location and type of fracture, bone quality, and your surgeon's assessment of how long the implant needs to last. Some surgeons prefer partial replacement for patients over 70 with a femoral neck fracture, while others may recommend total replacement based on individual factors. Your surgeon will explain which option makes sense for your situation.

Living with a hip replacement long-term

Most partial hip replacements function well for 10 to 20 years or longer. You can return to many activities—walking, swimming, golf, gardening, and light exercise are usually safe. High-impact activities like running, jumping, or contact sports put extra stress on the implant and are generally not recommended.

You may notice occasional clicking or popping in the hip, which is usually harmless. Some people experience mild swelling or stiffness on days when they are more active; this often improves with rest and ice. Avoid heavy lifting (more than 10 to 15 pounds) and repetitive bending or twisting movements that stress the hip.

Tell any new doctor or dentist that you have a hip replacement. Before dental work or certain medical procedures, your doctor may recommend antibiotics to prevent infection. Have your hip checked during routine follow-up visits, typically at six weeks, three months, one year, and then every few years.

Preparing for surgery and what to bring to the hospital

Before surgery, your doctor will order blood tests and imaging to confirm the fracture and assess your overall health. You will meet with the anesthesiologist to discuss any medications you take and any allergies or past reactions to anesthesia. Stop eating and drinking at midnight the night before surgery, as instructed.

Arrange for someone to drive you home and help you for at least the first week. Prepare your home before surgery: place frequently used items at waist height so you do not have to bend or reach, remove throw rugs that could cause tripping, and set up a comfortable sleeping area on the ground floor if stairs are difficult. Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and a list of all medications and supplements you take to the hospital.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the incision take to heal?

The skin incision usually closes within two to three weeks. Stitches or staples are removed around 10 to 14 days after surgery. The deeper tissues and bone take much longer—typically six to twelve weeks—to heal fully. You may notice bruising and swelling around the incision for several weeks; this is normal.

Can I drive after a partial hip replacement?

Most people cannot drive for four to six weeks after surgery, depending on which hip was operated on and how quickly they regain strength and control. If your right hip was replaced, you will need to wait longer because you use that leg for the brake pedal. Ask your surgeon when it is safe to resume driving.

Will I need pain medication after I go home?

Yes, most people need prescription pain medication for two to four weeks after surgery. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help once you reduce the prescription dose. Ice and elevation also reduce pain and swelling. Tell your surgeon if pain is not controlled or if you have side effects from medication.

What if I fall on my new hip?

Falls are a common concern after hip replacement. If you fall, try to stay calm and assess whether you can move your leg and stand up. If you cannot stand or feel severe pain, call for help rather than trying to get up on your own. Even if you feel okay, contact your surgeon to report the fall; imaging may be needed to check for damage to the implant.

Can a partial hip replacement be converted to a total replacement later?

Yes, if the socket wears down or becomes damaged over time, a surgeon can replace it in a second procedure. This is called conversion to a total hip replacement. It is more complex than the original surgery because the implant in the femoral head must be removed and replaced, but it is a standard procedure when needed.