Hip resurfacing vs total hip replacement

Hip resurfacing preserves more of the thigh bone, while total hip replacement replaces the damaged ball and socket.

A surgeon may discuss hip resurfacing when the femoral bone is strong, the hip shape is suitable, and preserving bone matters to the treatment plan. It can appeal to people who want to retain more of the natural hip structure for demanding activities, although activity limits still apply during healing. Certain bone conditions, reduced bone strength, or a smaller hip anatomy can make this option less suitable.

Total hip replacement may be considered when arthritis or another condition has damaged the joint surfaces, when pain limits walking or sleep, or when resurfacing would not provide a suitable fit. It replaces the worn ball and socket and can be used across a wider range of hip shapes and bone conditions. The surgeon also considers previous operations, muscle strength, and your goals for recovery.

Both operations involve risks such as infection, blood clots, dislocation, nerve irritation, fracture, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. Resurfacing has additional concerns related to the cap and the preserved femoral bone, while total replacement has concerns related to the stem and its position in the thigh bone. Recovery includes wound care, pain control, walking practice, and exercises guided by the surgical team.

Surgery may not be the immediate choice when symptoms are mild, the pain source has not been confirmed, or non-surgical care has not been tried. A clinician may first assess movement, strength, imaging, medicines, activity changes, and physiotherapy. Hip pain can also come from the spine, tendons, or nearby tissues, so matching treatment to the actual source matters.

The discussion usually weighs your imaging, bone quality, hip anatomy, activity expectations, general health, and willingness to follow rehabilitation. Ask which component would be used, what movements are restricted during healing, how long walking support may be needed, and what findings would make the surgeon change the plan. Review [Hip Resurfacing](/treatments/joint-replacement/hip-resurfacing/) and [Total Hip Replacement](/treatments/joint-replacement/total-hip-replacement/) before the appointment.