Pre-Op Information for Total Hip Replacement Patients

Before Surgery Day

Medications to stop: Blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, aspirin, and certain supplements must be stopped before surgery. Your anaesthetist and Dr Liew will provide a specific list at your pre-admission appointment.

Pre-admission clinic: Attend the hospital pre-admission appointment for blood tests, ECG, and anaesthetic review, usually 1–2 weeks before your procedure.

Fasting: No food or drink from midnight the night before surgery. Some medications may be taken with a small sip of water — confirm with our team.

Your Hospital Stay

You will be admitted on the day of surgery. After your anterior approach hip replacement, you will spend 2–4 nights at Eastwood Private Hospital.

• Physiotherapy begins on the day of surgery — you will walk with your physiotherapist the same day as your operation.
• There are no hip precautions required with the direct anterior approach (no raised toilet seat, no hip restriction rules in most cases).
• Pain is managed with regular medications. Please communicate your pain levels clearly to the nursing team.
• You will be discharged with your Hypafix dressing in place, medications, wound care instructions, and a physiotherapy plan.

Early Recovery Milestones

Here is what to expect in the weeks following your hip replacement:

• Week 1–2: Walking with a stick. Pain managed with oral medications. Wound dressed. 2-week review with Dr Liew.
• Week 3–6: Increasing independence. Most patients drive an automatic vehicle at 4–6 weeks. Hip precautions (if any) typically lifted by 6 weeks.
• Month 2–3: Walking without aids. Returning to most activities. Swimming from 4 weeks post-op.
• Month 6–12: Ongoing strength improvement. Bone ingrowth completing. Returning to golf and low-impact activity.

Frequently Asked Questions