So, you just found out that you need hip replacement surgery. First thing’s first—plan ahead! There are several things you should take into consideration when choosing the best time to have surgery: weather, work, insurance, and holidays/vacation.
Weather
There are pros and cons to having surgery during any season. Some doctors recommend having surgery during the winter months while others suggest spring and fall.
During the winter months, you will most likely be stuck inside a lot, giving you time to heal and improve your mobility. Then, once the warmer weather rolls around, you’ll be able to go outside and enjoy some outdoor activities.
Spring and fall are also considered by some doctors to be excellent times to have surgery. Why? Because the weather is so ideal that patients maximize their physical therapy sessions. And, bonus!—patients can typically avoid wearing layers of clothing, which will minimize impact to the surgical site.
Work
Do you work outside? If so, you are most likely needed to work during the warmer months; therefore, having surgery during the winter may be a better option for you.
What if you work at a desk indoors? Then it really doesn’t matter which time of year you have surgery, but you should plan to take some time off so that you can adequately heal and recover.
Insurance
Insurance is another huge factor when it comes to having hip replacement surgery. Check with your insurance provider to see if there are authorization or requirements needed from your doctor. But it all boils down to your insurance plan and what time of year you may be most financially limited.
Holidays and Vacation
“I want to be down after hip surgery when the holidays and vacation roll around,” said no one…EVER. Simple things like riding in a car or walking on the beach can be terribly uncomfortable right after having hip replacement surgery. So, be sure to take holidays and vacations into consideration when planning for your surgery.
In summary…
Well, there you have it. The best time of the year for having hip replacement surgery depends on several factors. Consult with your doctor and consider each factor when planning your surgery.
Get advanced orthopedic care at Great Lakes Orthopaedics
With more than 60 years of helping patients enjoy full range of motion again, Great Lakes Orthopaedics offers highly specialized orthopaedics treatments to get you back on your feet. Our dedicated team of physicians are specialized in hip replacements and are devoted to providing you with the best experience possible. Your health and wellness matter to us. That’s why we will be with you every step of the way—before, during, and after your procedure.
Contact us today and let us address any questions or concerns you may have at https://greatlakeso.com.
References:
- Roth J. Best Time of Year for Hip Replacement Surgery. Mobility Goal. June 10, 2022. Accessed February 27, 2023. https://www.mobilitygoal.com/best-time-of-year-for-hip-replacement-surgery/.
- Robotic Joint Replacement: The Best Time Of Year To Schedule Elective Surgery. Gold Coast Surgicenter. Accessed February 27, 2023. https://www.goldcoastsurgicenter.com/joint-replacement/robotic-joint-replacement-the-best-time-of-year-to-schedule-elective-surgery/#:~:text=Consider%20spring%20and%20fall,visits%20to%20a%20physical%20therapist.
