How to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery: A Step-by-Step Safety Checklist (2026 Guide)
Feeling confused about what to do before hip replacement surgery is understandable, especially when you're already dealing with hip pain and worrying about recovery. Knowing how to prepare can help you feel more confident, reduce avoidable risks and make your return home easier.
With guidance from your surgical team, you can prepare your body, organise your home, review medications and complete the necessary medical checks before the operation.
In this guide we'll cover medical clearance, pre-op tests, lifestyle changes, health conditions to manage, home safety, hospital packing, questions to ask your surgeon and what to expect on surgery day.
Quick Answer: How Should You Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery?
How to prepare for hip replacement surgery starts several weeks before the operation. You should complete your medical clearance, pre-op tests, medication review and dental planning and also prepare your home for recovery.
Hip Replacement Preparation Checklist
| Preparation | What you should do | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| Medical clearance | Complete health and anesthesia-risk evaluation | Several weeks before |
| Pre-op tests | Blood tests, EKG, urine test or other tests if advised | Often within 30 days |
| Medicines | Give your team a complete medicine and supplement list | Before surgery |
| Dental care | Finish major dental treatment when possible | At least 3 weeks before |
| Tobacco | Stop cigarettes and nicotine products | Ideally 6 weeks before |
| Home | Remove trip hazards and arrange help | 1–2 weeks before |
The exact timing can change based on your health and hospital protocol so you should follow your surgeon’s plan rather than a fixed checklist.
Medical Preparations: Appointments, Tests & Clearances Before Hip Surgery
Before hip replacement surgery your medical team checks for health problems that could affect anesthesia, healing or recovery. Along with your hip condition they may review your heart, lungs, kidneys, blood sugar, previous surgeries, allergies and infection history.
Preoperative Testing and Medical Clearance
Preoperative testing is different for each patient. Firstly your doctor may order blood tests, an EKG, urine testing or a chest X-ray and where needed additional heart tests or HbA1c.
Medical clearance means your overall health is reviewed before surgery. Your primary-care doctor or internist may check your blood pressure, heart and lungs and manage conditions such as diabetes or anemia before giving clearance.
For this you should tell the team about previous blood clots, breathing problems, sleep apnea, kidney disease or any current infection and also mention allergies and previous anesthesia problems.
Medications & Supplements to Stop and When
Do not stop medicines by yourself before hip replacement. Blood thinners, NSAIDs, diabetes medicines, steroids, GLP-1 medicines and some supplements can affect bleeding, blood sugar, anesthesia or healing so your surgeon and prescribing doctor should decide what changes are needed.
- Firstly give your team a complete list of prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements.
- Then ask exactly when blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medicines should be stopped and restarted.
- And also tell them about GLP-1 medicines such as semaglutide or tirzepatide because current guidance can depend on your symptoms and individual risk.
Dental Work: Why Timing Matters for Infection Prevention
Dental care is relevant to hip replacement because some dental procedures can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Where major dental treatment such as an extraction or periodontal work is needed it should generally be completed before surgery when feasible.
AAOS guidance says major oral surgical or extraction procedures should ideally be completed at least 3 weeks before elective joint replacement. And at the same time routine antibiotics before dental procedures are not automatically recommended for most hip-replacement patients.
And for this you should tell both your dentist and orthopedic surgeon about the planned surgery and ask when dental cleaning or other treatment is safest.
Preparing Your Body: Prehab Exercises, Weight & Lifestyle Changes
Preparing for hip replacement surgery can feel overwhelming when you're already dealing with pain and limited movement. But you don't need to make every change at once. If you're thinking about how to prepare for hip replacement surgery, it starts with building strength safely, improving your nutrition and discussing lifestyle changes with your care team.
Strengthening Exercises to Start Before Surgery
Gentle prehab exercises can help prepare your legs and upper body for walking and daily movements after surgery. Before starting, ask your surgeon or physical therapist which exercises are safe for your condition.
| Exercise | How it may help |
|---|---|
| Ankle pumps and circles | Support circulation and prepare you for early movement. |
| Quadriceps and gluteal sets | Strengthen the thigh and buttock muscles used for standing and walking. |
| Heel slides | Maintain gentle hip and knee movement. |
| Sit-to-stand practice | Prepare you for getting up from a chair or bed. |
| Walker practice | Help you become familiar with moving safely with support. |
Move slowly and avoid forcing painful movements. Stop and contact your care team if you develop sharp or worsening pain, dizziness or shortness of breath.
Quitting Smoking & Cutting Back on Alcohol
Smoking and nicotine can slow wound healing and increase infection risk. If you're preparing for hip surgery then ask your care team about quitting as early as possible. AAOS recommends stopping smoking at least 4 to 6 weeks before elective surgery and remaining smoke-free for at least 6 weeks afterwards.
Alcohol can affect balance, sleep, liver function and how your body responds to anaesthesia or pain medicines. Tell your surgeon how much you drink and ask whether you should stop completely before surgery. Don't assume vaping or nicotine replacement is harmless for surgical healing.
Nutrition & Weight Management Before the Operation
Your body needs enough nutrients to support muscle strength, wound healing and recovery. Before hip replacement surgery, focus on balanced meals rather than crash dieting.
- Protein: Include eggs, fish, chicken, beans, lentils or tofu to support muscle repair.
- Fruits and vegetables: Provide vitamins and other nutrients that support healing.
- Iron, calcium and vitamin D: Ask whether you need testing or supplements.
- Hydration: Drink enough water unless your doctor has given you fluid restrictions.
Use this as your hip replacement preparation checklist, but remember that weight goals and nutrition needs vary. During your pre-op for hip replacement, ask your care team whether you should lose weight, maintain your current weight or address nutritional deficiencies first.
Lower Your Surgical Risk: Health Conditions to Control Before Hip Replacement
Before hip replacement surgery, your health needs attention along with your hip pain. Diabetes, high blood pressure and anemia can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. As part of your hip replacement preparation checklist you should review these conditions with your doctor and complete the recommended blood tests before surgery.
Diabetes, Blood Pressure & Anemia
Diabetes: High blood sugar can slow wound healing and increase infection risk. Firstly ask your doctor to review your HbA1c and glucose levels and explain how to manage diabetes medicines around surgery.
High blood pressure: Uncontrolled blood pressure can put extra strain on your heart during anesthesia. Keep a record of your recent readings and do not stop your regular medicines unless your care team tells you to.
Anemia: Low hemoglobin can increase the chance of needing a blood transfusion because hip replacement may involve blood loss. You should ask whether you need a complete blood count and iron tests and then treat the cause before surgery where advised.
Heart, Lung & Sleep Apnea Concerns to Tell Your Surgeon
Heart and breathing conditions do not always prevent hip replacement but they may need extra checks before surgery. And also tell your surgeon about previous heart attacks, heart failure, asthma, COPD or breathing problems during earlier anesthesia.
| Condition | What you should do before surgery |
|---|---|
| Heart disease | Ask whether you need a cardiology review or an electrocardiogram (ECG). |
| Lung disease | Discuss your inhalers, oxygen use and any recent respiratory infection. |
| Sleep apnea | Tell your team if you use a CPAP machine and ask whether to bring it to the hospital. |
During pre-op for hip replacement you should also share your complete medicine list, implanted heart devices and any history of blood clots. For this you should follow your surgical team's medicine instructions rather than stopping prescribed drugs on your own.
Preparing Your Home for a Safe Recovery
Coming home after hip replacement surgery can feel easier when your space is ready before you leave the hospital. Preparing for hip replacement surgery also means checking your walkways, arranging useful equipment and planning who can help during the first few weeks.
Fall-Proofing: Rugs, Cords & Handrails
Even familiar rooms can become difficult to move around when you're using a walker or recovering your balance. Before surgery, walk through your home and clear anything that could cause a fall.
| Area | What you should do |
|---|---|
| Floors and walkways | Remove loose rugs, shoes, bags and other clutter. Secure carpet edges that may catch your feet. |
| Cords and cables | Keep electrical wires and phone chargers away from walking paths. |
| Stairs | Check that handrails are secure, keep steps clear and improve lighting. |
| Bathroom | Use nonslip mats and arrange grab bars near the toilet or shower. |
| Bedroom | Keep your phone, medicines and frequently used items within easy reach. |
Good lighting matters, especially when you need to get up at night. If your bedroom is upstairs, ask your care team whether a temporary sleeping area on the ground floor would be safer.
Equipment to Buy or Borrow: Raised Toilet Seat, Shower Chair & Reacher
You may not need to buy every item on the market. The right equipment depends on your home, mobility and surgeon's instructions, so check what you'll need before spending money.
- Raised toilet seat: Helps reduce deep hip bending when sitting down or standing up.
- Shower chair or tub bench: Allows you to bathe while seated and may reduce the risk of slipping.
- Reacher or grabber: Lets you pick up light objects without bending or twisting.
- Walker or crutches: Provide support when moving around, as prescribed by your care team.
- Long-handled shoehorn or sock aid: May help you dress without bending too far.
Ask whether the hospital or insurance plan can provide or cover any equipment. A physical or occupational therapist can help you choose suitable options.
Lining Up Help and Meals for the First Weeks
Even if you're usually independent, you may need help with everyday tasks for the first one to two weeks after surgery. Arrange support before your operation rather than waiting until you're home.
Ask a family member, friend or caregiver to help with bathing, meals, transport to appointments and household tasks. You can also prepare and freeze simple meals in advance, keep snacks and water within reach and organise medication reminders.
If you're preparing for hip surgery, include these steps in your hip replacement preparation checklist and confirm your home-care needs during your pre-op for hip replacement appointment.
What to Pack for Your Hip Replacement Hospital Stay
Packing a few useful items can make your hip replacement hospital stay more comfortable and help you move around safely. Firstly you should keep your bag simple because the hospital usually provides meals, bedding and basic medical supplies.
Hip Replacement Hospital Packing Checklist
| Category | What you should pack |
|---|---|
| Identification | Photo ID, insurance card and referral documents if required |
| Medical information | Current medication list, allergies and medical-device details |
| Mobility aids | Walker, cane or crutches if your hospital asks you to bring them |
| Clothing | Loose pants or shorts, a comfortable top, underwear and socks |
| Footwear | Supportive nonslip shoes which are easy to put on |
| Personal care | Toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, deodorant and lip balm |
| Daily essentials | Glasses, hearing aids, CPAP machine if used, phone and charger |
| Going-home items | Loose clothing, supportive shoes and your caregiver’s contact details |
Then keep your medication list and allergy information easy to find so the care team can review them. And also avoid packing valuables, large amounts of cash or medicines unless the hospital specifically asks you to bring them.
The Days Before Surgery: Skin Prep, Fasting & Final Checks
The final few days are an important part of How to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery because skin cleansing, fasting and medication checks help reduce avoidable risks. Along with packing your bag you should confirm your arrival time and arrange transport home.
Antibacterial Skin Cleansing to Prevent Infection
Before hip replacement surgery your hospital may ask you to wash with an antibacterial product such as chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG). This helps reduce bacteria on your skin and may lower the risk of infection around the surgical site.
- Firstly shower with regular soap if your instructions require it.
- Then use the prescribed wash or cleansing cloths exactly as directed.
- And also avoid lotions, oils, perfume and shaving near the surgical area unless your care team says otherwise.
Wear clean clothes after cleansing and use clean bedding. For this you should check whether you need to repeat the wash on the morning of surgery.
Fasting Rules & Which Medications to Take
Fasting before hip replacement surgery helps reduce the risk of stomach contents entering your lungs during anesthesia. Your hospital will tell you when to stop eating and drinking, so do not rely on general timings alone.
- Firstly confirm when to stop solid food and whether clear liquids are allowed.
- Then ask which regular medicines you should take with a small sip of water.
- Lastly review blood thinners, diabetes medicines, GLP-1 medicines and supplements with your surgical team.
Do not stop or change prescribed medication on your own. And at the same time tell your anesthesiologist about any medicines or supplements you take.
Call Your Surgeon If You Get a Fever, Cold or Skin Infection
If you develop a fever, cough, cold, flu, COVID-19 symptoms or a skin infection before hip replacement surgery you should contact your surgeon promptly. An active illness may affect anesthesia safety or increase infection risk and your operation may need to be postponed.
Call your surgeon if you notice:
- Fever or chills
- A new cough, sore throat or breathing symptoms
- A rash, boil, open wound or infection near your hip
- Dental pain or a suspected urinary infection
Do not try to push through an illness or take antibiotics without medical advice. This hip replacement preparation checklist is a guide only, so you should always follow your hospital’s individual instructions.
Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Hip Replacement
Before agreeing to surgery, you may have questions about the implant, anaesthesia, possible risks and how soon you'll be able to walk again. Asking these questions helps you understand the plan and feel more prepared.
Essential Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
Use this checklist during your appointment. You don't need to ask every question at once, but make sure you understand the decisions that affect your care.
Questions to Discuss Before Surgery
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| What is causing my hip pain and what do my scans show? | Helps confirm whether hip replacement is suitable. |
| Why do I need surgery now? | Clarifies whether other treatments remain an option. |
| Which surgical approach and implant will you use? | Helps you understand why the plan suits your condition. |
| What are the main complications I should know about? | Gives you a clearer idea of risks and warning signs. |
| How many hip replacements do you perform each year? | Helps you discuss the surgeon's experience, although numbers alone don't guarantee a better result. |
| What will recovery and follow-up care involve? | Helps you plan for walking support, physical therapy and time away from work. |
Ask about anaesthesia options too, especially if you have diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnoea or other health conditions. Your surgeon and anaesthesia team can explain which approach is appropriate for you.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
The day may feel stressful, particularly if it's your first major operation. Knowing the usual steps can make the process easier to follow, although the exact routine depends on your hospital and health needs.
Your Hip Replacement Surgery Day: Step-by-Step
| Stage | What usually happens |
|---|---|
| Arrival and check-in | Staff confirm your identity, procedure and medical history. You'll change into a hospital gown and have your vital signs checked. |
| Before surgery | You'll meet the anaesthesia and surgical teams, review medicines and allergies, and receive an IV for fluids or medication. |
| Anaesthesia | You may receive general anaesthesia, spinal anaesthesia or another suitable option based on your health and care plan. |
| The operation | The surgeon removes damaged joint surfaces and places the hip implant. Surgery often takes around one to two hours, but timing varies. |
| Recovery room | Nurses monitor your breathing, blood pressure, pain, nausea and circulation while you recover from anaesthesia. |
| Early movement | Many patients begin standing or walking with support on the day of surgery, guided by the care team. |
| Going home or staying | Some patients go home the same day, while others stay for one or two days depending on their recovery and support needs. |
Before discharge, make sure you understand your medication plan, movement precautions, follow-up appointments and which warning signs require medical attention.
Final Thought
Preparing for hip replacement surgery involves more than getting ready for the operation. From completing medical checks and reviewing your medicines to strengthening your body and making your home safer, each step helps you prepare for recovery with greater confidence.
Before surgery, discuss your health conditions, anaesthesia options, possible complications, and recovery expectations with your surgeon. Follow your hospital's instructions for fasting, skin cleansing and medication changes, and arrange help for the first few weeks at home. Remember, your preparation and recovery plan should suit your individual health needs.
Planning your hip replacement surgery? Find the right hospital on CureMeAbroad and book your consultation today with an experienced hospital doctor.
FAQs
1. How early should I start preparing for hip replacement surgery?
Starting a few weeks before surgery gives you time to get things in order, which can make the first part of recovery easier to manage. You can use this time to complete medical tests, review your medicines and begin prehab exercises. Along with these preparations, arrange help at home so you are not trying to manage everything alone after the operation.
2. Which medications and supplements should I stop before surgery?
There are certain medicines which may need to be paused or adjusted before hip replacement, but the advice depends on what you take and your health condition. Blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medicines, diabetes drugs, GLP-1 medicines and some supplements need a review before surgery. Before stopping anything, speak with your surgeon and the doctor who prescribes your medicine.
3. Can I eat or drink before hip replacement surgery?
Your hospital will give you fasting instructions which explain when to stop eating and drinking before the operation. Solid food usually needs to be stopped several hours beforehand, while clear liquids may be allowed until a specific time. Since the timing can differ between hospitals and patients, follow the instructions given to you rather than relying on general advice.
4. Do I need to see a dentist before hip replacement?
A dental check may be needed where you have gum disease, tooth pain or an active infection that needs treatment before surgery. Major dental work may also need to be completed beforehand, depending on the situation. For this, check with your dentist and surgeon so they can advise you on the timing and whether any treatment needs to happen before your hip replacement.
5. How much help will I need at home afterward?
The amount of help you need can vary, though many patients need support during the first one to two weeks after hip replacement. Someone may need to help with meals, bathing, walking and household tasks while you get used to moving around again. Before coming home, arrange a caregiver if possible and keep everyday items nearby, which can make things easier when bending or reaching is uncomfortable.
6. When will I be able to drive again?
You may be able to return to driving within two to six weeks, although the timing depends on your recovery and which hip was operated on. Getting in and out of the car may feel easier before you are ready to drive safely, so do not use comfort alone as a guide. Wait for your surgeon's clearance and avoid driving while taking opioid pain medicine.
Reference
Hospital for Special Surgery. (2024). What to know and do before and after hip replacement surgery.
https://www.hss.edu/health-library/move-better/before-and-after-hip-replacement-surgeryCleveland Clinic. (2017). Hip replacement surgery: What it is & recovery time.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17102-hip-replacementMayo Clinic. (2025). Hip replacement.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hip-replacement/about/pac-20385042Mayo Clinic. (2026). Questions to ask before joint replacement surgery.
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-qa-questions-to-ask-before-joint-replacement-surgery/Mayo Clinic Store. Total hip replacement surgery: Recovery, preparation and care.
https://store.mayoclinic.com/total-hip-replacement-surgery-recovery-preparation
