We start by making an incision in your thigh so that we can access the hip joint,  before dislocating your hip away from the socket. We then trim the head of the femur and once it is prepared, cement a metal cap over it. We then remove any damaged bone or cartilage that lines the socket and a metal cup is press fitted into place, before relocating the newly capped ‘ball’ back into the socket.

Unlike hip replacements, resurfacing is not suitable for everyone, but if it is an option, it can potentially deliver a number of benefits over a full replacement including making it easier for a revision if required down the track and potentially reducing the risk of hip dislocation. It can also help you avoid leg length inequality and achieve normal walking patterns. 

This surgery requires a hospital stay of up to four days, but you can usually start to put weight on your leg immediately after surgery, depending on your specific circumstances. You’ll most likely need a walker, cane or crutches for a few days or weeks until your comfortable enough to walk on your own.

You may need physical therapy or be given a set of simple exercises to help restore your strength and range of motion. Most patients are back to their regular activities within six weeks. Modern bearings such as ceramic are being trialled to avoid the complications of metal on metal bearings.