What Hip Replacement Is
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Hip replacement surgery (also called hip arthroplasty) is a procedure where a damaged or worn-out hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant made of metal, ceramic, or high-grade plastic. The goal is to relieve pain, improve movement, and restore normal joint function when medication or physical therapy no longer helps.
👉 Think of the hip as a ball-and-socket hinge that allows smooth leg movement. When the surfaces wear down — like rusted parts on a door hinge — every step becomes stiff and painful. Hip prosthesis implantation replaces those damaged parts with a new, polished mechanism that moves freely again.
💡Modern hip surgery in Thailand uses minimally invasive and computer-assisted techniques to reduce recovery time, pain, and scarring. Patients typically regain mobility within weeks and can return to normal activities within a few months.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Hip Resurfacing Procedure
People consider Thai artificial hip joint surgery when hip pain begins to limit everyday activities — walking, climbing stairs, sleeping comfortably, or simply moving without stiffness.
When conservative treatments stop working, an experienced orthopedic surgeon or hip replacement specialist evaluates whether surgery can restore mobility and improve overall quality of life.
Suitable candidates
A person may be a good candidate if they have:
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Advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis causing constant pain and stiffness.
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Hip fractures or post-traumatic hip damage that affects mobility.
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Avascular necrosis, when the blood supply to the hip joint is reduced and the bone begins to collapse.
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Difficulty performing daily activities such as walking, standing, or resting comfortably.
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Pain that persists despite medication, injections, or physiotherapy.
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Good overall health with manageable chronic conditions.
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Sufficient bone strength to support a hip implant.
Not ideal or temporarily unsuitable
Surgery may be delayed or not recommended for individuals with:
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Active infections anywhere in the body.
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Uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or severe anemia.
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Significant neurological or cognitive disorders that make rehabilitation difficult.
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Very weak bone structure from severe osteoporosis.
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Excess body weight where optimization is required for safety.
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Pregnancy, since elective orthopedic procedures are usually postponed.
✅ Before confirming the hip replacement type, hospitals usually conduct a full assessment — including imaging, lab tests, and physical evaluation — to determine whether surgery is safe, appropriate, and likely to improve long-term mobility.
Types of Hip Replacement Procedures
Hip surgery in Thailand is offered in several forms, depending on the condition of the joint, the patient’s anatomy, and whether this is a first-time or repeat operation.
Below is a clear overview of the most common options performed by orthopedic specialists.
| Procedure |
When It’s Used |
Key Point |
| Standard Hip Replacement |
Moderate–severe arthritis or hip degeneration |
Replaces worn joint surfaces to restore mobility. |
| Total Hip Replacement (THR) |
Severe joint damage affecting both socket and femoral head |
Most common option; durable long-term relief. |
| MAKOplasty Total Hip Replacement |
Patients wanting high-precision, minimally invasive surgery |
Robot-assisted implant placement for accuracy and faster recovery. |
| ALMIS — Minimally Invasive Hip Arthroplasty |
Patients suitable for soft-tissue-sparing approaches |
Smaller incision, less muscle disruption, quicker rehabilitation. |
| THR for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) |
Adults with shallow or malformed hip sockets |
Specialized reconstruction to stabilize the joint. |
| Revision Hip Arthroplasty |
When a previous implant loosens, wears out, or causes pain |
Replaces or adjusts failing components. |
| Total Hip Replacement (Arthroplasty) Revision |
Full redo of a previous THR |
Old implant removed and replaced with a new system. |
A Thai study on hip fractures found excellent survival outcomes, with in-hospital survival reaching nearly 100% and one-year survival around 97.5%. Although performing surgery within 24 hours did not significantly increase survival rates, it was associated with shorter hospital stays and reduced postoperative pain.
Why Choose Thailand for Hip Replacement Surgery
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Thailand has become a leading destination for medical tourism, thanks to modern hospitals, skilled surgeons, and transparent pricing for international patients.
💡 Thailand is becoming a top destination for medical and wellness tourism, with the market estimated at USD 31.5 billion in 2024 and set to expand quickly. Cost-effective, high-quality treatments and active government promotion support the rise.
Internationally accredited hospitals
The majority of Thai centers are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), ensuring safety standards equal to top clinics in Europe or the U.S.
Operating rooms follow international infection-control protocols and anesthesia guidelines.
Highly trained hip replacement surgeons
Patients seeking the best hip replacement surgeon in Thailand benefit from specialists who are educated and fellowship-trained at leading global centers in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Japan.
Many Thai orthopedic surgeons hold memberships in respected international organizations such as:
World-class implants and advanced surgical technology
Hospitals performing hip surgery in Thailand use the same high-end implant systems as those found in major Western orthopedic centers. This includes implants from:
Faster access to surgery
While patients in Western countries often wait weeks or months, hip replacement in Thailand can usually be scheduled within 7–14 days after evaluation.
Transparent and accessible pricing
The cost of hip replacement in Thailand typically ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on implant brand, surgical approach, and hospital level.
This remains around 50–70% lower than in the U.S., Australia, or parts of Europe, even after factoring in travel.
Comfortable and Supportive Recovery
Recovery usually begins the day after surgery, with assisted walking and personalized physiotherapy. Hospitals provide:
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private, hotel-standard rooms.
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dedicated international-patient coordinators.
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early rehabilitation programs.
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optional transfers to recovery resorts.
The calm environment and well-organized care help restore mobility and reduce pain more smoothly.
💚 Patients booking through Bookimed can compare hospitals, view verified reviews, and access exclusive packages not available through direct hospital contacts.
Medical coordinators assist with doctor matching, travel planning, medical document collection, and real price comparisons.
All-Inclusive Hip Replacement Packages
These bundles cover all essential medical services needed for a smooth and predictable treatment journey — from preoperative testing to postoperative care.
💡Packages also help patients avoid surprise expenses, and through Bookimed, clinics offer reduced prices and exclusive deals.
What Is Typically Included
| Usually Included |
Should Be Confirmed in Advance |
| Surgeon and hospital fees for hip replacement surgery (including implants such as Stryker, Zimmer Biomet, DePuy, or Smith & Nephew) |
Whether the package includes premium implant brands or only standard options |
| Consultations with specialists (orthopedic surgeon, anesthesiologist, physiotherapy team) |
Hotel accommodation before or after discharge |
| Full preoperative testing — bloodwork, X-ray, CT or MRI if needed |
Flight tickets, usually not included |
| General or regional anesthesia |
Additional rehabilitation sessions beyond the standard package |
| Hospital stay (usually 4–6 days in a private room with meals and nursing care) |
Upgraded room types or extra nights if recovery takes longer |
| In-hospital medications and pain management |
Assistive devices (walker, crutches), which may or may not be part of the package |
| Postoperative follow-up exams and wound checks |
Long-term follow-up after returning home |
| Initial physiotherapy and mobility training in the hospital |
Extended physiotherapy programs or transfers to external rehab centers |
| Airport–hotel–clinic transfers |
Personal requests (sightseeing, private transport) |
| Dedicated international-patient coordinator and language assistance |
Travel or medical insurance requirements |
Step-by-Step Guide to Hip Replacement in Thailand
Hip replacement Thailand is a planned procedure that replaces a worn or damaged hip joint with an artificial one to relieve pain and restore mobility. The surgery usually takes 1.5–2.5 hours, most hospitals use minimally invasive or robot-assisted techniques for faster recovery.
| Step |
What Actually Happens |
| 1. Pre-surgery checkup |
Patients undergo blood tests, X-rays or CT scans, and meet with an orthopedic surgeon and anesthesiologist. |
| 2. Anesthesia |
Patients receive either general anesthesia (fully asleep) or spinal anesthesia (numb from the waist down). |
| 3. Small incision |
The surgeon makes an incision over the hip. In minimally invasive procedures such as ALMIS or the anterior approach, the incision is smaller, and muscles are gently separated rather than cut. |
| 4. Removing the damaged joint |
The worn femoral head and damaged cartilage inside the hip socket are removed — this is what causes pain and stiffness. |
| 5. Preparing the hip for the implant |
The socket is shaped for a new cup, and the thigh bone is prepared for a stem. Thai hospitals use navigation or robotic systems (e.g., MAKO) to ensure perfect alignment. |
| 6. Placing the new artificial hip |
A new hip implant is inserted — usually from globally recognized brands like Stryker, Zimmer Biomet, DePuy, or Smith & Nephew. |
| 7. Testing movement |
The surgeon gently moves the leg to check stability, balance, and equal leg length. |
| 8. Closing the incision |
The wound is closed and covered with a sterile dressing. The patient is moved to recovery for monitoring. |
✅ Physiotherapy starts within 24 hours — usually getting out of bed with assistance on day one. Patients practice walking with a frame or crutches, learn safe movements, and gradually regain mobility.
Rehabilitation After Hip Reconstruction
Recovery is designed to help patients regain safe mobility quickly, reduce pain, and restore normal daily activity.
✅ Thai hospitals place strong emphasis on early movement and structured physiotherapy, with international patient departments guiding each step.
What rehabilitation looks like
| Timeline |
What Patients Typically Experience |
| Day 1 |
A physiotherapist helps stand and take a few assisted steps. Breathing and circulation exercises start to prevent stiffness. |
| Days 2–4 |
Walking practice with a walker or crutches. Gentle hip-strengthening exercises begin. Pain decreases as mobility improves. |
| Days 4–6 |
Discharge from the hospital. Receive a personalized exercise plan and instructions for safe movement (sitting, sleeping, bending, climbing stairs). |
| Week 1–3 |
Daily walking increases. Swelling gradually subsides. Most patients walk independently indoors using a cane. |
| Week 4–6 |
Ability to walk longer distances. Improved joint stability and movement. Many patients return to remote work or light desk activities. |
| Month 3 |
Significantly better hip function. Patients resume most normal activities (driving, light sports, long walks). |
| Month 6–12 |
The artificial hip fully adapts to the body. Most people achieve near pain-free movement and improved quality of life. |
Physical therapy
Certified physiotherapists guide rehabilitation services in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. Many hold international training and use modern approaches, such as:
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gait training;
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muscle reactivation techniques;
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hydrotherapy (in selected centers);
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balance and coordination therapy;
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progressive strength programs.
✅ International hospitals provide English-speaking physiotherapists and follow globally recognized protocols used in U.S. and European orthopedic centers.
💡To protect the new artificial hip joint, doctors usually recommend avoiding:
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deep bending or crossing legs;
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high-impact activities (running, jumping);
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heavy lifting;
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long periods of sitting without movement.
Most patients can fly home after 10–14 days, depending on mobility and overall progress.
Long-Term Results of Hip Replacement
Hip replacement in Thailand provides durable, predictable outcomes thanks to modern implants, skilled orthopedic surgeons, and standardized rehabilitation.
| Aspect |
What Patients Can Expect |
| Implant longevity |
15–25+ years, depending on activity level and implant material (ceramic ↑ durability). |
| Pain relief |
Most patients experience long-term relief from chronic hip pain caused by osteoarthritis, fractures, or childhood hip disease. |
| Mobility & function |
80–100% restoration of daily mobility with improved quality of life. |
| Activity level |
Return to walking, swimming, cycling; high-impact sports usually restricted. |
| Revision likelihood |
Low; needed only after many years or in complex cases. |
💚 Bookimed can provide real data from hospitals so patients can compare outcomes, surgeons, and implant options.
A 2025 study found that patients following the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol (ERAS-P) after total hip replacement had 30–40% lower levels of pain distress, anxiety, and depression compared to those receiving standard care. The most significant improvements occurred within the first 3–6 months post-surgery, after which the differences between groups gradually decreased.
Travel Tips for Hip Replacement Patients in Thailand
These are Thailand-focused, practical, and oriented toward medical tourists with limited mobility.
Travel Essentials
| Category |
Recommendations (with natural hyperlinks) |
| Best travel time |
November–February offers the most comfortable weather for recovery. During the rainy season (June–October), pre-arrange cars with covered pick-up areas and wheelchair access. |
| Documents |
Bring a passport valid for 6+ months, medical records, imaging scans, a medication list, and optional travel insurance. |
| Visa |
Citizens of 93 countries enter visa-free for 60 days. Hospitals can assist with medical extensions through the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs. |
| Transport |
Pre-book wheelchair-friendly airport transfers via your hospital or Bookimed. Use Grab for safe city rides. For airport mobility help, Suvarnabhumi provides PRM assistance (wheelchairs, staff support). Avoid motorbike taxis. |
| Where to stay |
Choose accessible hotels with elevators and step-free rooms near major medical zones:
- Sukhumvit / Ploenchit / Phrom Phong (Bangkok) — flat roads + BTS stations with elevators.
- Phuket Town — convenient access to hospitals.
Serviced apartments often include grab bars and wider doorways. |
| Packing list |
Loose clothing, slip-on shoes, compression socks, a reacher tool, a long-handled shoehorn, waterproof bandage covers, and all medications in original packaging. |
| Flying after surgery |
Most patients fly home 10–14 days after clearance. Book an aisle seat, use airport assistance, move every 1–2 hours, and wear compression stockings to reduce the risk of blood clots. |
| Extra support |
Bookimed can assist with transfers, interpretation, medical visa letters, and arranging priority appointments at partner orthopedic hospitals. |
| Emergency contacts |
- 1669 — National Emergency Medical Service (ambulance)
- 1155 — Tourist Police (English-speaking help)
- 02-132-7777 — Suvarnabhumi Airport Medical Center (24/7)
- 02-286-4444 — Bangkok EMS Hotline (urban emergency support)
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Hip Replacement in Thailand: Safety and Outcomes
Hip replacement surgery is widely regarded as safe and effective, and is performed under strict international standards.
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Hip replacement surgery is considered a very safe and dependable procedure, showing a 90–100% success rate within the first five years and 62–98% after 10 years. It offers patients lasting pain relief and significantly improved mobility over time.
✅ Private hospitals use sterilization and surgical protocols comparable to those in the U.S. and Europe, and most orthopedic units operate within internationally accredited centers.
Thai orthopedic surgeons often complete fellowships in the U.S., UK, Australia, or Japan, and many are members of global associations such as AAOS, AOSpine, and the Asia Pacific Orthopaedic Association, ensuring up-to-date expertise in hip arthroplasty.
Possible side effects (mild and temporary)
While most patients recover smoothly, it’s normal to experience:
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mild stiffness or soreness in the first days after the surgery;
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temporary swelling around the hip and thigh;
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tiredness or limited mobility during early physiotherapy;
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short-term sleep disruption as the body adjusts.
These typically improve quickly once daily physiotherapy begins.
💚 Through Bookimed, patients can choose verified orthopedic hospitals and hip specialists in Thailand that openly share results, surgeon profiles, and treatment packages.
FAQs
Is hip replacement surgery in Thailand safe?
Yes. Accredited hospitals follow international standards, and many orthopedic surgeons are globally trained and use modern techniques such as ALMIS and MAKO robotic-assisted surgery.
How much is hip replacement in Thailand?
The cost of hip replacement in Thailand usually ranges from $8,000 to $18,000, depending on the implant and technique.
How long should patients stay in Thailand?
Most stay 10–14 days for tests, surgery, and early rehabilitation.
When can patients walk again?
Assisted walking often begins within 24 hours, especially after minimally invasive procedures.
Can younger patients have hip replacement?
Yes, mainly when hip damage is caused by arthritis, injury, or childhood hip disorders. Surgeons may choose longer-lasting ceramic or premium implants.
When is it safe to fly home?
Most patients can fly 10–14 days after surgery, provided they follow basic precautions such as wearing compression stockings and moving regularly during the flight.
Is revision hip replacement offered in Thailand?
Yes. Hospitals with experience in complex cases perform revision hip arthroplasty using advanced imaging and guided surgical systems.
References
- Impact of enhanced recovery after surgery on psychological outcomes in total hip arthroplasty / G. Xing et al. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research. 2025. P. 104222. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.otsr.2025.104222 (date of access: 13.11.2025).
- A Scoping Review of Total Hip Arthroplasty Survival and Reoperation Rates in Patients of 55 Years or Younger: Health Services Implications for Revision Surgeries / A. M. Negm et al. Arthroplasty Today. 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.artd.2022.05.012 (date of access: 13.11.2025).
- Unnanuntana A, Anusitviwat C, Lertsiripatarajit V, Riawraengsattha P, Raksakietisak M. Early Hip Fracture Surgery Within 24 hours did not Reduce the Mortality Rate but Resulted in Less Postoperative Opioid use and a Shorter Length of Stay: A Retrospective Study of 276 Patients From a Tertiary Private Hospital in Thailand. Geriatric Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation. 2024;15. doi:10.1177/21514593241250150 date of access: 13.11.2025).