Joint Replacement
Joint replacement is surgery to remove a damaged or arthritic joint — most often the hip or knee — and replace it with an artificial implant made of metal, ceramic or plastic. It is used when arthritis or injury causes persistent pain and stiffness that limit daily life, and it aims to relieve pain and restore movement.
Medically reviewed by the Florence Healthcare medical team · Last reviewed June 2026
Overview
Hip and knee replacement are among the most established and successful operations in orthopedics. The worn joint surfaces are replaced with a prosthesis designed to move smoothly and bear weight, relieving the pain and stiffness caused by advanced arthritis or injury. Partial replacement is sometimes possible when only part of the joint is affected.
Where it is suitable, minimally invasive techniques and modern implants can support a quicker, smoother recovery. Surgery is only one part of the journey — structured physiotherapy and rehabilitation are essential to regain strength, movement and confidence in the new joint.
Orthopedic and spine surgeons work with physiotherapists and rehabilitation specialists, and international patients receive a coordinator, a clear plan and a transparent cost estimate before travel, including the expected length of stay and rehabilitation. Imaging and reports can be reviewed remotely first.
Who is a candidate?
- People with advanced hip or knee arthritis causing persistent pain and stiffness
- Those whose symptoms limit daily activities, sleep or mobility despite non-surgical treatment
- Patients for whom medication, injections and physiotherapy no longer give enough relief
- People with joint damage from injury or conditions such as avascular necrosis
- Patients fit enough for surgery and willing to commit to a rehabilitation program
What happens
- 1
Assessment
X-rays and a clinical examination confirm the extent of joint damage and which type of replacement — total or partial — is most suitable for you.
- 2
Preparation
Your team optimizes your health for surgery, plans anesthesia, and may start pre-operative exercises (prehabilitation) to aid your recovery.
- 3
The operation
Under general or spinal anesthesia, the surgeon removes the damaged joint surfaces and fits the prosthesis, using minimally invasive techniques where appropriate.
- 4
Early mobilization
Physiotherapy usually begins within a day, helping you stand and walk with support. Most patients are walking and managing stairs before discharge.
- 5
Rehabilitation
A structured rehabilitation program over several weeks rebuilds strength and range of motion. International patients receive a home exercise plan and follow-up schedule.
Benefits
- Reliable, lasting relief from arthritis pain for most patients
- Restored movement and the ability to return to everyday activities
- Improved sleep and quality of life when pain has been limiting
- Minimally invasive options, where suitable, can support a quicker recovery
- Modern implants are designed to last many years
Risks & considerations
- Infection, blood clots and bleeding, as with any major surgery
- Stiffness or, rarely, dislocation of the new joint
- Differences in leg length or ongoing discomfort in a minority of patients
- Wear or loosening of the implant over many years, sometimes needing revision
- A recovery period of several weeks requiring commitment to rehabilitation
Conditions this treats
Where it is performed
This procedure is delivered by our Spine Center & Orthopedics.
Learn more before you decide
Provider-reviewed guides on the related conditions, symptoms and tests in our Health Library.
Joint Replacement — frequently asked questions
Hip and knee replacement are core programs, using modern implants and, where appropriate, minimally invasive techniques. Partial replacement is offered when only part of the joint is affected.
Most patients stand and walk with support within a day of surgery, with physiotherapy starting early. Walking ability improves steadily through your rehabilitation program.
You can expect to be walking within days and to recover steadily over three to six months, with structured physiotherapy. Your team gives you a personalized timeline and home exercise plan.
Yes. Send your X-rays and reports and our specialists give an independent opinion on whether joint replacement is appropriate and what alternatives exist.
Joint replacement usually means around two to four nights in hospital, plus rehabilitation and follow-up — your coordinator confirms how long to plan for in the city. We provide a transparent estimate after reviewing your case that itemizes the implant, surgery, hospital stay and rehabilitation, rather than a fixed online price.
Related treatments
Considering joint replacement?
Share your reports for a medical second opinion and a transparent, itemized cost estimate — usually within 48 hours.