How Long Do Hip Implants Usually Last? Key Considerations

Executive Summary

• Generally, hip implants last between 15 and 20 years; however, with proper care, many patients can enjoy 25 years or more of mobility after their hip replacement surgery.
• Various factors, including age, activity level, weight, pre-existing health conditions, and the surgical technique used, all influence how long a hip implant can last.
• Warning signs of excessive implant wear may include pain, stiffness, difficulty moving, and unusual noises coming from the hip joint.
• Patients can potentially extend the lifespan of their implant by maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercises, and scheduling regular follow-ups with their surgeon.

Understanding Hip Implant Lifespan

The first recorded attempt at hip replacement surgery was in 1891; however, this type of surgery was not deemed entirely effective until 1962. Moreover, even the successful total hip arthroplasties from the mid-1900s yielded relatively low implant survival rates after 10 years. How long hip implants lasted was negatively affected by the bone cement used to secure the initial implant, which would deteriorate over time and eventually loosen.

Thankfully, there have been many surgical improvements since the mid-1900s. The approaches and materials used in modern-day hip replacement surgery offer significantly higher implant survival rates, allowing patients to experience maximum relief from severely damaged hip joints, especially those caused by arthritis.

The comprehensive guide below provides a detailed examination of present-day arthroplasties, tailoring patients’ expectations and addressing the common question, “How long do hip implants last?” Read through the following considerations to understand what may affect the longevity of your hip implant, signs of wear to look out for, and how to achieve long-lasting comfort.

What is the Average Lifespan of Hip Implants?

After an anterior total hip replacement surgery, hip implants have historically lasted between 15 and 20 years on average, according to data collected between 1991 and 2011. However, this number has been on the rise, thanks to several years of medical research and technological advancements. Newly implanted prosthetic hips made of highly cross-linked polyethylene and ceramic components are now stronger and more durable than ever.

In fact, many patients are expected to get 25+ years of use from new hip implants, assuming they follow the recovery and maintenance guidelines laid out by their healthcare provider. To support this, a systematic review and meta-analysis examining implant survival data from as recent as 2017 found that more than 70% of hip replacements remain functional after 20 years.

Still, there are numerous factors at play, making it impossible to declare exactly how long hip implants last, and no implant is guaranteed to last a lifetime. Nevertheless, patients can take comfort in the fact that modern implants are a durable and long-term solution for compromised hip joints.

Five Key Factors That Affect Implant Lifespan

Although the averages mentioned above offer a general benchmark, every patient’s situation is unique. The following five factors can influence how long a patient can experience the long-term benefits of joint replacement surgery before a revision is needed.

1. Patient Age

Due to their higher activity levels, younger patients may wear out their hip implants at a faster rate than older individuals who lead more sedentary lifestyles. Plus, the younger you are when you get your initial hip surgery, the longer you have for that implant to wear down. Therefore, it is more likely for a younger patient to need revision surgery in their lifetime. 

2. Activity Level

Some high-impact activities can accelerate the wear and tear on hip implants, potentially increasing your need for a revision. Some examples of activities your medical provider may tell you to avoid are:

• Running or high-intensity hiking
• Jumping
• Singles tennis
• Basketball
• Skiing or snowboarding
• Contact sports like American football

Although the high-impact activities above should be avoided, many low-impact exercises, such as swimming, cycling, or walking, can actually keep an implant functioning longer by strengthening surrounding muscles and helping maintain joint flexibility without placing unnecessary stress on the prosthetic.

3. Implant Materials & Design

Surgeons are responsible for deciding which implant materials and designs to use based on their patients’ specific needs. Ceramic components are highly resistant to wear, causing many surgeons to suggest them to younger patients who will be using their hip joint most often. On the other hand, metal and polyethylene combinations tend to cost less while still providing durability and versatility, causing them to remain widely used. 

In general, modern-day hip implant designs are excellent at resisting wear due to their improved bearing surfaces and precise, friction-minimizing engineering. Plus, surface coatings can be added to implants to reduce friction further and enhance long-term durability.

4. Surgical Technique & Placement

Even the highest quality implants can prematurely fail if they are not positioned correctly during the surgery process. Since proper alignment and secure fixation play a significant role in how long a hip implant lasts, patients should select an experienced orthopedic surgeon, such as Dr. Shane Martin, who specializes in minimally invasive hip replacement techniques that can enhance outcomes. Dr. Martin has mastered the use of advanced technology, like Mako SmartRobotics™, allowing him to ensure that each hip implant is placed accurately.

5. Patient Health & Weight

Excess body weight may add extra stress to hip implants, potentially reducing their lifespan. In addition to obesity, some other chronic health conditions that can impact healing after surgery and jeopardize a hip implant’s longevity are:

• Diabetes
• Osteoporosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Chronic kidney disease

Signs That an Implant May Be Wearing Out

Even though hip implants are intended to provide years of reliable function, they are not indestructible. As time passes, patients may notice biomechanical changes that suggest their implant is wearing down or loosening. Some examples of common warning signs include:

• An increase in pain or stiffness – If you notice localized hip discomfort that grows worse years after your initial recovery, implant problems may be at the root of the issue.
• A reduction in range of motion – If everyday movements such as walking, bending down, or climbing stairs become harder to perform due to stiffness, your implant may not be functioning as intended.
• The presence of abnormal noises – Hearing clicking, popping, or grinding sounds coming from the hip is usually an indicator of friction or loosening within the joint.

So, if you experience difficulty bearing weight or any of the symptoms above, it’s essential to schedule an evaluation with your orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible. Early intervention has the potential to preserve your mobility by preventing more serious complications from occurring.

When is Revision Surgery Needed?

Total hip revision surgery is typically needed if the implant loosens, an infection occurs, the joint dislocates, or there is excessive wear. To address these issues, this follow-up surgery involves removing the failing implant and replacing it with a new one. 

Unfortunately, revision surgery is typically more complex than the first replacement. It also requires a more extended recovery period for most patients. Understanding the potential risks and preparing for a more involved rehabilitation process is essential for anyone considering total hip revision.

Thankfully, most patients do not need revision surgery for decades, if at all. You can prolong your need for revision surgery by taking practical steps to extend the life of your hip implant.

How to Extend the Life of a Hip Implant

While certain factors are out of a patient’s hands, there are practical steps you can take to help your hip replacement last as long as possible. Some examples of hip precautions to take after surgery that can extend the life of your hip implant and prolong your need for revision surgery are:

• Following your surgeon’s recovery plan – Strictly adhering to physical therapy and post-operative restrictions laid out by your medical provider is key to healing well and protecting your implant.
• Maintaining a healthy weight – Keeping extra pressure off your joint can reduce stress and wear, therefore maximizing the longevity of your implant.
• Choosing low-impact exercise – When it comes to working out, it is best to stick to activities like swimming, cycling, yoga, and walking, which can build strength without overwhelming the hip implant.
• Schedule routine checkups – Regularly having medical imaging performed allows your surgeon to accurately monitor the condition of your implant, making it easier to catch potential issues early on.

Preparing Yourself for a Long-Lasting Hip Replacement

If you’re planning hip replacement surgery, it is essential to take the time to prepare. Doing so can improve both short- and long-term results. For starters, you should always ask your surgeon about your specific implant type and lifespan. As mentioned earlier, certain materials and designs may offer distinct advantages depending on your age and average level of activity.

Your surgeon can help you align the procedure with your lifestyle and goals. Talk with them and their team of medical professionals to better understand how your daily activities, exercise routines, and long-term mobility needs will fit into your surgical plan.

Regardless of your implant type or surgical approach, you should plan for long-term follow-up care. Committing to regular visits for monitoring, even years after surgery, can help keep your implant in optimal condition.

Secure Lasting Comfort and Mobility

So, in short, how long do hip implants last? For most patients, the answer hovers around 15 to 20 years or longer. Still, many patients can enjoy decades of pain-free mobility if they maintain a healthy lifestyle, follow dependable medical advice, and schedule regular check-ups. However, individual results may vary based on factors such as patient age and activity level.

If you’re considering hip replacement surgery, the Joint Replacement Center of Scottsdale is here to guide you through the process and ensure you get the longest use out of your implant. Our well-established team of experienced surgeons and staff members is ready to help you make informed choices about your joint condition. We provide a wide range of advanced treatment options and top-of-the-line follow-up care for our surgical patients. By being with you every step of the way, we can help you safeguard your new hip joint.

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation. We are excited to show you how we can help you achieve lasting comfort and mobility.