Hip Resurfacing Perth: An Alternative to Hip Replacement

Living with hip pain can feel like carrying an invisible burden. Every movement from walking to bending reminds you of the joint’s limitations. For many in Perth, hip replacement has been the go-to solution. But what if there was another option, one that preserved more of your natural bone and gave younger, active patients a better chance at long-term mobility?

That’s where hip resurfacing comes in.

Understanding Hip Resurfacing

What Is Hip Resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing is a surgical procedure designed to relieve hip pain while preserving more of the patient’s natural bone compared to traditional hip replacement. Instead of removing the entire femoral head (the “ball” of the joint), the surgeon trims and caps it with a smooth metal covering. The hip socket (acetabulum) is also fitted with a metal cup.

Think of it as reshaping and reinforcing your natural hip joint rather than replacing it entirely.

How Is It Different from Total Hip Replacement?

• Bone Preservation: Unlike total hip replacement, which removes the femoral head, resurfacing keeps most of it intact.
  
  

• Lower Risk of Dislocation: Because the femoral head is larger in resurfacing, the joint is more stable.
  
  

• Activity Level: Patients, especially younger and more active individuals, may return to higher levels of physical activity after recovery.
  
  

Who Is a Good Candidate for Hip Resurfacing?

Not everyone is suited for hip resurfacing. Ideal candidates typically include:

• Men under 60 with strong, healthy bone density
  
  

• Active individuals who want to return to sports or heavy physical activity
  
  

• Patients with hip arthritis but without severe bone damage or osteoporosis
  
  

According to the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR), men make up the majority of hip resurfacing patients because they generally have denser bone structure, which is essential for successful outcomes.

Women with smaller bone frames or osteoporosis are usually not ideal candidates.

The Rise of Hip Resurfacing in Australia

While hip replacement remains the most common procedure, hip resurfacing has gained popularity among younger patients. In Australia, registry data show that hip resurfacing accounts for a smaller but consistent share of hip surgeries each year.

A study published in the Medical Journal of Australia reported that resurfacing patients had lower revision rates in men under 55 compared to traditional hip replacements. This makes it an attractive option for younger Perth residents who want long-term function.

The Procedure: Step by Step

Before Surgery

Preparation usually includes:

• X-rays and MRI scans to evaluate bone strength
  
  

• Pre-operative physiotherapy to build muscle strength
  
  

• Discussions about lifestyle changes (quitting smoking, improving diet)
  
  

During Surgery

The operation typically lasts two to three hours. The surgeon reshapes the femoral head and caps it with a metal prosthesis, while the acetabulum is fitted with a metal cup.

After Surgery

Most patients stay in the hospital for three to five days. Early mobility is encouraged, with physiotherapy beginning almost immediately to restore strength and movement.

Recovery Timeline

The First Few Weeks

• Walking aids (crutches or a walker) are needed
  
  

• Swelling and stiffness are managed with medication and physiotherapy
  
  

• Gentle exercises help improve mobility
  
  

Three to Six Months

• Patients gradually return to normal activities
  
  

• Many can swim, cycle, or play low-impact sports by three months
  
  

• Driving typically resumes within six weeks
  
  

One Year and Beyond

• Full recovery may take 6–12 months
  
  

• Patients often report improved quality of life and the ability to return to high-level activities like tennis, skiing, or long-distance hiking
  
  

According to studies, over 90% of hip resurfacing implants last more than 10 years, especially in younger male patients.

Benefits of Hip Resurfacing

1. Bone Conservation

By preserving more of the natural femoral head, resurfacing allows for easier revision surgery if required in the future.

2. Lower Dislocation Risk

The larger ball size reduces the chance of dislocation compared to total hip replacement.

3. Active Lifestyle Support

Resurfacing patients are more likely to return to demanding physical activities, which is why younger athletes and physically active individuals prefer it.

4. Easier Revision Surgery

If revision is ever needed, converting a resurfaced hip to a total replacement is usually simpler than redoing an existing total replacement.

Risks and Considerations

Like any surgery, hip resurfacing comes with potential risks:

• Metal Ion Release: Since both the cap and socket are metal, there may be a small risk of metal ions entering the bloodstream.
  
  

• Fracture Risk: The femoral neck can sometimes fracture after resurfacing, particularly in patients with weaker bones.
  
  

• Not Suitable for All Patients: Women with smaller bones or patients with osteoporosis may not benefit.
  
  

The AOANJRR reports that revision rates are higher in women and in men over 65. This is why careful patient selection is critical.

Hip Resurfacing vs. Hip Replacement: Which Is Right for You?

The choice ultimately depends on age, bone health, and lifestyle goals.

Choosing a Surgeon in Perth

One of the most important decisions is selecting a specialist with experience in both hip replacement and resurfacing. A skilled surgeon can assess whether resurfacing is the right choice based on your health, bone strength, and activity level.

Many patients look for the best orthopaedic surgeon perth to ensure they receive personalised advice and advanced treatment tailored to their condition.

Life After Hip Resurfacing

Patients often describe life after hip resurfacing as transformative. Pain decreases significantly, mobility improves, and confidence returns. Many Perth patients have shared stories of getting back to hiking trails, sports, and even competitive athletics things they thought were gone forever.

With the right care and rehabilitation, resurfacing can provide decades of reliable hip function.

Key Statistics You Should Know

• 50,000+ hip procedures are performed annually in Australia
  
  

• 90%+ success rate for hip resurfacing in men under 55
  
  

• Lower revision rates compared to replacement in young, active males
  
  

• Over 85% of patients report improved quality of life within six months

Conclusion

Hip resurfacing in Perth offers a reliable alternative to traditional hip replacement, especially for younger, active patients who want to maintain mobility and preserve more of their natural bone. With advances in surgical techniques and better implant designs, outcomes are improving every year. If you’re experiencing hip pain and wondering whether resurfacing is right for you, consulting an experienced orthopaedic surgeon is the best first step toward regaining a pain-free, active lifestyle.