Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint pain shouldn’t hold you back. Health Journeys helps you access world-class orthopaedic care, from hip and knee replacements to shoulder and elbow surgery, at internationally accredited hospitals abroad. Each treatment is tailored to your needs, combining expert surgeons, advanced technology, and compassionate aftercare to help you move freely and live without pain again.
Types of Joint Replacements
Knee
Hip
Shoulder & Elbow
Knee Replacements
Who needs knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement is recommended for people who have severe pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility caused by joint damage, most commonly due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or previous injury. There’s no age limit, what matters most is how much your symptoms affect your quality of life.
What other treatment options are there?
Before surgery, most people try non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy and strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatory medication, and steroid injections. If these measures no longer control pain or restore mobility, surgery may be the next step to regain comfort and independence.
How is knee replacement surgery done?
During surgery, the damaged surfaces of the thigh bone, shin bone, and sometimes the kneecap are removed and replaced with metal and high-grade plastic components that mimic smooth joint movement. The parts are fixed using either bone cement or a press-fit technique that lets bone grow into the implant naturally.
What types of knee replacement surgery are there?
There are a few main types of knee replacement surgery, depending on how much of the joint is affected:
Total Knee Replacement (TKR): The most common operation. The entire joint is resurfaced with smooth, durable components.
Partial Knee Replacement: Only one damaged part of the knee is replaced, preserving healthy bone and ligaments.
Kneecap Replacement: Replaces only the joint behind the kneecap.
Revision Knee Replacement: Performed when an older implant needs to be replaced.
Is there a minimally invasive approach?
Yes, minimally invasive and robot-assisted knee replacements use smaller incisions and advanced surgical guidance systems. These techniques can mean less pain, quicker recovery, and greater accuracy in implant placement. However, not everyone is suitable for these methods, your surgeon will consult with you and will recommend the best approach for your joint condition and overall health.
Can I get both knees replaced at the same time?
Yes, in some cases, both knees can be replaced during the same operation. This is called a bilateral knee replacement. This approach can reduce overall recovery time but is suitable only for selected patients. Your surgeon will consult with you and will determine your eligibility and recommend the best approach
What materials do they use for knee replacements?
In some cases, ceramic or specialised coatings are used. For example, for people with metal sensitivities or higher activity levels. Most knee implants are made from metal and medical-grade plastic. Your surgeon will recommend what’s best for your age, lifestyle, and bone health.
What is the recovery time?
Most people stay in hospital for 2–4 days after surgery. You’ll use walking aids initially and start physiotherapy almost straight away. Most return to everyday activities within 4–6 weeks, while full recovery may take 6–12 months. Health Journeys coordinates your aftercare, remote follow-ups, and physiotherapy support to ensure a safe recovery once you’re home.
What are the results following a knee replacement?
Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility after knee replacement. Modern implants are designed to last 15–20 years or more, depending on your health and activity level.
Hip Replacements
Who needs hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement is recommended for people with severe hip pain or stiffness that limits everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping, when non-surgical treatments no longer help. The decision is based on your symptoms and quality of life, not age alone.
What is the best age for a hip replacement?
There’s no perfect age for a hip replacement. The decision depends on how much hip pain affects your life. Many people benefit from surgery in their 60s–80s, but younger or older patients may also do well if their overall health allows. The goal is to restore mobility and comfort, for any age.
What other treatment options are there?
Before surgery, many people try exercise, physiotherapy, pain relief, or steroid injections to manage symptoms. If these measures no longer control pain or mobility, a hip replacement may provide lasting relief and improved quality of life.
How is a hip replacement surgery done?
During surgery, the damaged joint surfaces are removed and replaced with smooth, durable components. A metal or ceramic ball sits on top of a stem inside the thigh bone, and a cup with a plastic or ceramic liner is fitted into the hip socket. Together, they allow the joint to move freely and comfortably again.
What types of hip replacement surgery are there?
There are several types of hip replacement surgery, depending on how much of the joint needs to be replaced and how the new parts are fixed. The most common is a total hip replacement, where both the ball and socket of the hip are replaced with smooth, durable components. In some cases, a partial replacement is done if only the ball part of the joint is damaged. You surgeon will consult with you and recommend the best option for you.
Can I replace both hips at the same time?
In some cases, both hips can be replaced during the same hospital stay. Your suitability will depend on your overall health and your surgeon’s assessment, which prioritises your safety and best long-term outcome.
What materials can be used for a hip replacement?
Modern implants use combinations of metal, ceramic, and highly durable medical-grade plastic. The choice depends on your age, activity level, and bone health. Your surgeon will consult with you and will select the most suitable materials for strength, longevity, and comfort
What is the recovery time?
Most patients stand and walk within a day or two of surgery. Hospital stays typically last a few days, followed by physiotherapy and guided exercises. Everyday activities usually resume within 6–12 weeks, and full recovery continues over several months. Health Journeys also organises remote surgeon follow-ups to ensure your recovery stays on track after returning home.
What are the results following a hip replacement?
A successful hip replacement means freedom from pain, easier movement, and a return to normal activities. Over 95% of patients report feeling significantly better after surgery, and most hip replacements last 15–20 years or longer with proper care.
Shoulder and Elbow Replacements
Who needs shoulder replacement surgery?
Shoulder replacement is considered when pain, stiffness, or weakness make daily activities difficult. It’s most often used for advanced arthritis, large rotator cuff tears, or serious fractures that can’t be repaired. If non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy, medication, or injections no longer help, surgery may be the best way to restore comfort and movement.
How is a shoulder replacement done?
During surgery, the damaged parts of the shoulder joint are carefully removed and replaced with metal and medical-grade plastic components. These are shaped and positioned to restore smooth, natural movement. The operation is performed under anaesthesia, and most patients begin gentle physiotherapy soon afterwards to protect motion and prevent stiffness.
What materials are used for shoulder replacements?
Shoulder replacements are made from metal and high-grade plastic components designed to move smoothly and last for years. Some implants use ceramic or stemless designs that preserve more natural bone. Your surgeon will consult with you and recommend what’s best for your shoulder’s shape, strength, and activity level.
What is the recovery time following a shoulder replacement?
After surgery, your arm will usually be supported in a sling for the first few weeks while the joint heals. Gentle exercises start early under physiotherapy guidance to restore flexibility and strength. Most people return to everyday activities within 6–12 weeks, while full recovery continues over several months. Health Journeys helps coordinate aftercare, physiotherapy support, and remote surgeon follow-ups so your recovery continues smoothly once you’re home.
What are the expected results following a shoulder replacement?
Most people experience significant pain relief and improved strength and mobility after shoulder replacement. Modern implants are designed to last 10–20 years or longer, depending on your activity level and overall health.
Who needs elbow replacement surgery?
Elbow replacement is recommended for people with severe pain, stiffness, or loss of function caused by arthritis, complex fractures, or previous injury that no longer respond to physiotherapy, injections, or medication. It can restore movement and improve quality of life when other treatments no longer help.
How is an elbow replacement done?
During surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with metal and high-grade plastic components that restore smooth movement. Some implants are linked by a hinge for added stability, while others rely on your ligaments. The procedure is done under anaesthesia, with physiotherapy exercises following the procedure.
What materials can be used for an elbow replacement?
Elbow replacements are made from metal and medical-grade plastic components designed for durability and smooth movement. Your surgeon will consult with you and choose the best materials based on your bone health and lifestyle.
What is the recovery time following an elbow replacement?
Most people see steady improvement in comfort and motion over the first few months, with full recovery continuing for up to a year. Health Journeys helps coordinate aftercare, physiotherapy, and remote surgeon follow-ups for a smooth recovery.
What are the expected results following an elbow replacement?
Most patients experience significant pain relief, better mobility, and improved strength after elbow replacement. Everyday tasks like lifting, dressing, and reaching become easier, and modern implants are built to last many years with proper care and physiotherapy.
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