​What happens on the day of my total hip replacement surgery?

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On the day of your total hip replacement in Danbury or Southbury, Connecticut, you will be welcomed by our surgical team and personally evaluated by Dr. Jennifer Wood.

After check-in, your hip will be marked, an IV will be placed, and you will meet both the anesthesia team and Dr. Wood before surgery. Most patients receive spinal anesthesia with light sedation for comfort and safety.

The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours. After surgery, you will recover in a dedicated recovery area where your comfort, breathing, and vital signs are carefully monitored as you wake up from anesthesia.

Whether your surgery is performed at an ambulatory surgery center or at a hospital, your care plan is designed for a safe, efficient recovery.

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Will I go home the same day or stay overnight?

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If your surgery is performed at an ambulatory surgery center, you will go home the same day by design. Ambulatory surgery centers are specifically structured for safe same-day discharge after joint replacement.

If your surgery is performed at a hospital, many patients are still able to go home the same day. Some patients benefit from staying one night in the hospital for additional monitoring and therapy, depending on medical factors and home support.

Most hospital patients go home either the same day or the morning after surgery.

Your discharge plan is individualized based on your health, recovery progress, and support system.

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When will I start walking after hip replacement?

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Most patients begin walking just a few hours after surgery with the guidance of a physical therapist or nursing team.

Unless you are told otherwise, you may put full weight on your operated leg as tolerated. Walking several short times per day is strongly encouraged and plays a major role in a smooth recovery.

Early, safe mobility is one of the keys to excellent outcomes after hip replacement surgery in Connecticut.

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Will I have hip precautions or movement restrictions?

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Most patients undergoing modern hip replacement techniques with Dr. Wood have no formal hip precautions.

You will be encouraged to move naturally while avoiding extreme or forceful positions early in recovery. Any specific precautions will be discussed with you based on your individual surgery.

This approach allows faster return to daily activities and greater confidence during recovery.

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How is pain controlled after surgery?

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We use a multimodal pain management strategy designed to maximize comfort while minimizing side effects.

Your plan may include:

• Scheduled acetaminophen

• Anti-inflammatory medication, when appropriate

• A short course of prescription pain medication, if needed

Most patients notice steady improvement in pain over the first 1–2 weeks.

Our goal is comfortable movement, restful sleep, and rapid return to independence.

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Should I use ice after hip replacement?

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Yes — regular icing is strongly encouraged.

Ice packs or an ice machine can significantly reduce pain and swelling, especially during the first 1–2 weeks after surgery. Many patients find icing is one of the most effective tools for comfort.

Elevating your leg while resting further helps control swelling.

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How do I care for my incision?

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You will go home with a surgical dressing in place.

• Leave the dressing intact unless instructed otherwise

• You may shower once approved

• Do not soak the incision

• Mild bruising and swelling are normal

You will receive personalized wound care instructions before discharge.

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How do you prevent blood clots after hip replacement?

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Preventing blood clots is a critical part of recovery after total hip replacement surgery in Connecticut.

Your plan may include:

• A prescribed blood thinner

• Frequent walking throughout the day

• Ankle pump exercises

• Compression stockings, if recommended

Contact our office urgently if you develop sudden calf pain, significant leg swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

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When will I start physical therapy?

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Most patients begin walking and basic mobility the day of surgery or the next day with the guidance of the hospital or surgery center team.

Formal outpatient physical therapy typically begins around post-operative day 7 to 10, once early surgical inflammation has started to settle.

This timing helps:

• Reduce unnecessary swelling

• Improve comfort

• Allow more effective strengthening

Some patients receive home physical therapy during the first week after surgery if it is requested or if it is deemed necessary for safety and mobility at home. Not every patient requires home therapy.

Your physical therapy plan is individualized based on your recovery, home environment, and functional needs.

Consistency matters more than intensity early in recovery.

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When can I drive again?

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You should not drive while taking narcotic pain medication.

Most patients can resume driving when:

• They are walking comfortably

• They have good control of the operated leg

• They are no longer taking narcotics

This is often around 2–4 weeks after surgery.

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When is my first follow-up appointment?

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We typically see you back in clinic within 10–14 days after surgery.

If your appointment is not already scheduled, please contact our office in Danbury or Southbury.

You are always welcome to reach out sooner with questions or concerns.

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When should I contact Dr. Wood’s office?

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Please contact us if you have:

• Increasing redness, warmth, or drainage from the incision

• Worsening pain not improving with time

• New numbness or weakness

• Any questions about medications, activity, or wound care

Personalized access and direct guidance are part of our care model.

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How successful is total hip replacement?

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Total hip replacement is one of the most successful operations in modern orthopedic surgery.

Most patients experience rapid improvement in pain, mobility, and quality of life within the first few weeks. With modern techniques and personalized recovery pathways, long-term outcomes are excellent.

Our goal is not only a successful surgery, but a smooth, confident return to the life you enjoy.

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