Top 5 Myths About Joint Replacement Surgery
As an orthopaedic surgeon, I regularly meet patients who are living with severe hip or knee pain, yet are hesitant to consider joint replacement surgery. Often, their hesitation stems from misconceptions or outdated beliefs about what surgery involves and how effective it really is.
In this blog post, I’d like to share the top five myths I hear about joint replacement surgery — and provide the facts that every patient should know.
💬 Myth 1: “I’m too young or too old for joint replacement surgery.”
Fact: Age is just one factor — not the most important one.
We no longer base surgical decisions solely on age. Instead, we consider:
Pain levels
X-ray or MRI findings
Impact on quality of life
Response to non-surgical treatments
Younger patients with early-onset arthritis may benefit from surgery to stay active, while older patients in good health can also experience excellent outcomes. There is no perfect age — only the right time for you.
💬 Myth 2: “I’ll be stuck in bed for weeks after surgery.”
Fact: Most patients are walking the same day as surgery.
Thanks to advances in surgical technique, anaesthesia, and enhanced recovery protocols, the majority of patients:
Begin walking within hours
Leave hospital within 1–3 days
Start physiotherapy early to regain strength and mobility
The goal is to get you up and moving safely and quickly, not confined to bed.
💬 Myth 3: “Joint replacements don’t last long — I’ll need another one soon.”
Fact: Today’s implants are built to last 15–25 years or more.
Modern materials like ceramic, titanium, and cross-linked polyethylene have significantly improved implant durability. In many cases:
Hip replacements last 20+ years
Knee replacements can last 15–25 years
While younger patients may eventually need a revision, most joint replacements provide decades of pain-free movement.
💬 Myth 4: “Joint replacement surgery is risky.”
Fact: For most patients, the risk is very low — and the benefits are high.
Joint replacement surgery is one of the most successful and frequently performed procedures in medicine. With proper preparation and a tailored approach, we manage risk effectively:
Blood clot prevention strategies
Infection control measures
Preoperative assessment for medical fitness
Complications are rare, and the majority of patients report significant pain relief and improved mobility after surgery.
💬 Myth 5: “I won’t be able to do the things I love after surgery.”
Fact: The goal of joint replacement is to help you get back to the life you enjoy — with less pain.
After recovery, many patients return to:
Walking, cycling, swimming, and hiking
Playing with grandchildren
Travelling and socialising
Light recreational sports (like golf or bowls)
In fact, many people find they can do more than they could before surgery, because pain no longer holds them back.
👨⚕️ Final Thoughts from the Surgeon’s Desk 🦴
Joint replacement surgery can feel like a big decision — and it is. But it’s also one of the most rewarding surgeries we perform in orthopaedics. Patients routinely tell me they wish they had done it sooner.
If joint pain is affecting your sleep, mobility, or ability to enjoy life, it might be time to explore your options. Don’t let myths or fear stand in the way of getting the help you need.
Book a consultation
If you’re considering hip or knee replacement surgery, Dr Collins would be happy to assess your condition and help you make an informed decision.
