ReCerf Hip Resurfacing
Preparing for Surgery
Your surgical team will guide you through the complete operative process, with information on preoperative investigation and how best to get yourself prepared for surgery. Your need for post operative support will be discussed and you will be told what to expect and how to optimise your early recovery.
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The Surgical Procedure
Hip resurfacing is typically performed under spinal or general anaesthesia. A single incision (8–20 cm) is made, the joint surfaces are reshaped and capped, and the wound is closed with stitches or clips. Preserving the top of the thigh bone requires a slightly longer incision than for a total hip replacement. The surgery usually takes about an hour. Hospital stays range from two to three days.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Hospital Stay & Early Recovery
Nurses monitor your recovery and assist with movement. Physiotherapists help you start walking (initially with support) and working to build up your range of movement on crutches.
Returning Home & Daily Life
Everyday walking is encouraged. Gradually increase distance and pace in line with advice from your physiotherapist and the return to activity pathway in this guide. Some swelling and stiffness is normal; avoid prolonged sitting. Follow surgeon and physiotherapy guidelines for movement and activity restrictions.
Returning to Normal Activities
Driving Typically after 4–6 weeks, depending on recovery and medication use. Work Office jobs may resume in 6–8 weeks; physical jobs may require longer. Exercise & Sport Follow the return-to-activity pathway for safe progression (next section).
Return to Activity Pathway After Hip Resurfacing
Guiding Principles
Hip resurfacing patients should not return to activity faster than THR patients due to increased early postoperative risks, including femoral neck fracture. Unexplained pain in the first 6 to 12 months may indicate impending femoral neck fracture. Risk of early failure due to femoral neck fracture is higher if activity is resumed too soon.
Bone quality affects recovery – patients with lower bone density or related factors, may need extra precautions when returning to activity. Your surgeon will be happy to discuss your bone health and how this might affect your recovery and risks following surgery.
All activities carry risks of accidental movements (stumbles, falls, excessive weight-bearing) that must be minimised in early healing.
The bone healing process (described below) takes time and while resurfacing patients can achieve high activity levels long-term, patience in the early phase is crucial for success.
0–6 weeks (initial recovery & bone healing)
Weight-bearing Allowed as tolerated but should be controlled. Use two crutches for 6 weeks or a walker initially. Work, using exercises given, to improve the range of movement in your hip. Walking Focus on smooth, balanced movement to avoid compensatory strain. Restrictions Avoid twisting, sudden weight shifts, or stumbles. Daily Activities Short, controlled walks and self-care tasks. Risk Awareness Unexplained pain is a sign to ease activity, not push through.
6 weeks – 3 months (gradual functional recovery)
Mobility & Strength Transition to unaided walking but avoid excessive strain. Physiotherapy Focus Strength training and balance exercises with careful load progression. Low-Impact Activities Swimming, cycling, and elliptical training may begin.
Restrictions Avoid twisting, sudden weight shifts, or stumbles.
Risk Awareness New bone continues to form during this period, so increase activity cautiously. Unexplained pain is a signal to ease activity, not push through.
3–6 months (careful return to activity, no impact yet)
Exercise Expansion Careful expansion of exercise such as controlled strength training and hiking on even terrain. Restrictions No running, jumping, or abrupt direction changes. Risk Awareness Continue to monitor how you feel and adjust activity if unexplained pain or discomfort arises. Bone is still forming during this period.
6–12 months (transition to full activity – with caution)
Higher-Demand Activities e.g. Light jogging, or tennis may be considered with surgeon clearance. Gradual Progression Intensity and frequency should increase incrementally. Adjust activity if discomfort arises. Mindful Movement Avoid activities with a high risk of falls or sudden impact. Beyond 12 months (living a fully active life)
Most patients can resume a wide range of activities but should remain mindful of very high-impact risks.
What Are the Risks?
All hip surgery carries risks, including blood clots, infection, nerve injury, bone fracture and pain post-operation. In hip resurfacing, specific risks include femoral neck fracture and implant loosening. Some patients notice a brief grinding or squeaking sensation at the end of their range of motion. This is harmless, but if you have any concerns, contact your clinician. If, during surgery, your surgeon finds that your hip is not suitable for resurfacing, they may proceed with a total hip replacement (THR) instead.
Patient testimonials
Patient: Sian Oakley
Patient: Mark Woolston-Houshold
Patient testimonials
Patient: Mark Woolston-Houshold
Patient: Sian Oakley
Learn more
For more information on the different types of ReCerf Hip Resurfacing systems we offer:
→ Download: ReCerf Patient Guide
→ Download: ReCerf Product Brochure