Preparation is a key part of a successful surgical outcome. The weeks before your operation are an opportunity to optimise your health, prepare your home, and make sure you understand exactly what to expect. This page provides an overview — with links to detailed guides for total knee and total hip replacement patients.
01
Medical Optimisation Before Surgery
The best outcomes are achieved when patients arrive for surgery in the best possible health. In the weeks before your procedure:
- Blood pressure — ensure this is well controlled. If your GP has recently adjusted your medications, let our rooms know.
- Blood sugar — for patients with diabetes, optimised HbA1c improves wound healing and reduces infection risk.
- Weight — every kilogram of reduction reduces surgical and anaesthetic risk. Even small reductions matter.
- Smoking — stopping smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery significantly reduces wound and respiratory complications.
02
Preparing Your Home
Setting up your home before surgery makes the first week of recovery considerably easier:
- Set up a sleeping area on the ground floor if possible, especially for hip replacement patients in the first week.
- Stock your kitchen with easy-to-prepare food for the first 1–2 weeks.
- Arrange for a family member or carer to assist for the first 7–10 days.
- Remove trip hazards (loose rugs, cables) from your walking paths at home.
- Prepare a raised toilet seat and shower chair if recommended by your physiotherapist.
For detailed pre-operative guides specific to your procedure, please visit the TKR Pre-Op Guide or the THR Pre-Op Guide.
03
Frequently Asked Questions
Blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, newer agents), anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac), and some supplements (fish oil, vitamin E) must be stopped. Dr Liew and your anaesthetist will provide a specific list at your pre-admission appointment.
Yes — no food or drink from midnight the night before. Some medications may be taken with a small sip of water. Confirm this with our rooms or the hospital pre-admission team.
Comfortable loose clothing (shorts or tracksuit pants for knee replacement), non-slip footwear, your medications in original packaging, and your usual toiletries. The hospital provides gowns and surgical necessities.
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A one-page branded summary of this topic — QR code links to the video or full article.
Medical Disclaimer: General educational purposes only. Individual outcomes vary. AHPRA Registered Specialist.