Revision Hip Replacement
Revision hip replacement is a complex surgical procedure to replace a failed, worn, or infected hip implant. As primary hip replacements are performed in younger, more active patients, revision surgery is becoming more common — approximately 40,000 revision hip replacements are performed annually in the US. The procedure is significantly more complex than primary hip replacement and is best performed by surgeons specializing in complex joint reconstruction.
Find a SurgeonWhat is Revision Hip Replacement?
Revision hip replacement is a complex surgical procedure to replace a failed, worn, or infected hip implant. As primary hip replacements are performed in younger, more active patients, revision surgery is becoming more common — approximately 40,000 revision hip replacements are performed annually in the US. The procedure is significantly more complex than primary hip replacement and is best performed by surgeons specializing in complex joint reconstruction.
Typical cost: $40,000 - $90,000+ (before insurance), significantly higher than primary hip replacement due to surgical complexity, longer OR time, and specialized implant systems. Covered by Medicare and most insurance when medically necessary.
Last reviewed May 8, 2026 by AdvOrtho Editorial Team
Informational, not medical advice
Who Needs Revision Hip Replacement?
Revision hip replacement is needed when a primary hip implant fails due to implant loosening or wear, periprosthetic joint infection (infected implant), recurrent hip dislocation not correctable by closed means, fracture around the implant (periprosthetic fracture), adverse local tissue reaction (metallosis or pseudotumor from metal-on-metal implants), or component malposition causing pain or instability.
What to Expect
Recovery Timeline
Hospital recovery. Physical therapy begins the day after surgery. Weight bearing as tolerated unless restricted by bone quality.
Home recovery with walker. Wound care and swelling management. Weight bearing restrictions followed if prescribed.
Progressive weight bearing. Outpatient physical therapy. Transition from walker to cane as strength returns.
Return to most daily activities. Driving cleared when off pain medication and hip precautions lifted.
Return to recreational activities. Full recovery for most patients, though complex cases may continue improving beyond 12 months.
Maximum functional recovery achieved. Results are generally good but more variable than primary hip replacement.
Risks & Complications
- Higher complication rates than primary hip replacement overall
- Infection (2-5%, especially if revising for prior infection)
- Dislocation (higher risk than primary replacement)
- Periprosthetic fracture
- Leg length discrepancy
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Need for further revision surgery within 10-15 years
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does revision hip replacement surgery take?
Revision hip replacement typically takes 2-5 hours, compared to 1-2 hours for a primary replacement. The duration depends on the reason for revision, the degree of bone loss, and the complexity of removing the old implant. Severely infected or complex cases may require staged procedures — removing the implant first, treating infection with a temporary spacer, then implanting a new prosthesis weeks later.
How long does a revision hip replacement last?
Revision hip replacements last 10-20 years on average. Longevity depends on the reason for revision, bone loss severity, age, and activity level. Second revisions carry higher complication rates and are technically more demanding, making it important to have the revision done right the first time at a high-volume center.
Where should I have revision hip replacement done?
Revision hip replacement is best performed by orthopedic surgeons specializing in complex joint reconstruction at high-volume centers. Outcomes correlate with surgeon and hospital volume — surgeons who perform 25 or more revisions per year have significantly better outcomes than those doing fewer. Academic medical centers and dedicated joint replacement hospitals typically have the specialized implant systems and reconstruction experience these cases require.
Find a surgeon for Revision Hip Replacement
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$40,000 - $90,000+ (before insurance), significantly higher than primary hip replacement due to surgical complexity, longer OR time, and specialized implant systems. Covered by Medicare and most insurance when medically necessary.
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This information is for educational purposes only. Costs are estimates and vary by location, surgeon, and insurance. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.