Preparing for hip surgery requires careful planning—both medically and practically—to ensure optimal results. While procedures like total or anterior hip replacement can dramatically reduce pain and restore mobility, they also come with significant costs and recovery considerations, especially in the United States.
For many patients, the high price of surgery and long wait times in their home country can be overwhelming. Fortunately, medical travel to Mexico offers a safe, cost-effective alternative for accessing expert orthopedic care.
In this guide, we’ll review the key dos and don’ts before surgery—and explain how traveling to Puerto Vallarta to work with orthopedic specialist Dr. David Rosas can help you prepare confidently and recover more affordably.
Understanding Hip Surgery and Your Options
Total Hip Replacement
This procedure involves replacing both the femoral head (the “ball”) and acetabulum (the “socket”) with prosthetic components. It's typically recommended for patients with advanced arthritis or joint damage.
Anterior Hip Replacement
Using a minimally invasive approach from the front of the hip, this technique avoids cutting muscles, leading to faster recovery and fewer movement restrictions. However, it requires specialized training and is not suitable for all patients.
Traditional vs. Direct Anterior Approach
Essential Dos Before Hip Surgery
1. Schedule a Comprehensive Preoperative Evaluation
Before surgery, it's essential to undergo a full preoperative assessment. Complete all lab tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRIs), and any additional evaluations recommended by your care team.
Be sure to share your complete medical history with your surgeon, including:
- All current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Any known allergies or past adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular issues
Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions for pre-op hygiene, including antibacterial showers, hair removal guidelines, and fasting protocols. Following these steps carefully helps reduce the risk of infection and complications.
2. Prepare Your Home for a Safe Recovery
Creating a safe and accessible environment is key to a smooth recovery. Begin preparing your home at least a week before surgery:
- Set up a recovery area on the first floor to avoid stairs during the early healing phase
- Install grab bars in bathrooms, especially near the toilet and shower
- Place non-slip mats in high-traffic or wet areas
- Use a raised toilet seat or a commode chair if bending is restricted
- Remove rugs, cords, or clutter that could cause falls
- Keep essentials within arm’s reach: medications, phone, water, snacks, and mobility aids
- Stock up on pre-made meals or easy-to-prepare foods to minimize kitchen work during recovery
3. Discontinue Certain Medications and Supplements
Some medications and supplements can increase bleeding risk or interfere with anesthesia. In general:
- Stop NSAIDs (like ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen) at least 7 days before surgery
- Avoid blood-thinning supplements, such as vitamin E, garlic, ginkgo biloba, and fish oil
- Always make changes under the supervision of your healthcare provider
Your surgeon may also instruct you to stop certain prescription medications temporarily or adjust your doses. Always confirm what is safe to take in the days leading up to surgery.
4. Stop Smoking to Enhance Healing
If you smoke, it is critical to quit as early as possible before your procedure. Smoking:
- Reduces oxygen flow to tissues
- Slows wound healing
- Increases the risk of infection, blood clots, and complications from anesthesia
Even quitting two to four weeks before surgery can significantly improve your recovery and surgical outcomes. Ask your healthcare team about cessation aids or support programs.
5. Choose a Strategic Surgery Date
Timing your surgery carefully can make a big difference in your stress levels and overall experience. When selecting a date:
- Allow enough time to prepare physically and mentally
- Avoid holidays or major work deadlines, which can interrupt your focus or limit support from loved ones
- Weekday surgeries, particularly earlier in the week, are often ideal—rehab and medical services are more readily available
- Make arrangements for time off from work, caregiving duties, and other responsibilities during your recovery window
Key Don'ts Before Surgery
1. Don’t ignore your pre-op instructions
Failing to follow your surgeon’s preoperative guidelines—such as stopping specific medications or observing fasting rules—can lead to surgery cancellations or dangerous complications. Medications like blood thinners, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin), and even natural supplements can interfere with anesthesia or increase bleeding risk. Eating or drinking outside the instructed window may also make it unsafe to proceed with surgery. Carefully follow every instruction provided by your healthcare team.
2. Don’t overexert yourself physically
Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting in the days leading up to surgery. High-impact activities can worsen joint inflammation or aggravate the condition you're treating, making the procedure more complicated and potentially delaying recovery. Focus instead on gentle movement and rest unless your doctor advises otherwise.
3. Don’t hide medications, supplements, or substance use
Be completely transparent with your medical team about everything you take—prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Seemingly harmless items like fish oil, turmeric, or ginseng can affect blood clotting and blood pressure, posing risks during surgery. Also disclose any tobacco, alcohol, or recreational drug use. This information helps your care team ensure your safety and tailor anesthesia or medication plans accordingly.
Risks and Precautions: What to Expect
Preventing Complications
Major risks include blood clots, excessive bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. To prevent these:
- Wear compression stockings
- Start physical therapy early to promote circulation
- Follow wound care instructions strictly
- Alert your care team to any signs of infection or unusual pain
Understanding Anesthesia Options
Your anesthesiologist may use spinal anesthesia with nerve blocks to reduce pain and minimize opioid use. These techniques also support faster, safer recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Preparation for hip replacement surgery involves targeted exercises, careful medication management, and assembling essential items. Timing, pain control strategies, and guidance on supplements also play important roles in ensuring a smooth procedure.
What are the essential pre-operative exercises to prepare for hip replacement?
Patients are often advised to perform muscle-strengthening exercises focused on the hip, thigh, and core muscles. These include gentle stretches and low-impact activities that improve flexibility and build strength to aid recovery.
Activities like leg lifts, hip abductions, and quadriceps sets can help maintain muscle tone before surgery. Consulting a physical therapist for a personalized exercise plan is beneficial.
What should patients avoid doing before undergoing hip replacement surgery?
Patients should stop taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen at least seven days before surgery. Smoking should also be ceased to promote healing and reduce surgical risks.
Additionally, avoiding strenuous activities that could injure the hip is important during the pre-operative period.
Which vitamins or supplements are recommended prior to hip replacement surgery?
Patients may be advised to take vitamin D and calcium supplements to support bone health before surgery. However, it is crucial to avoid certain supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, and herbal products that can increase bleeding risk.
Always consult the surgeon or healthcare provider before starting or stopping any supplements.
How can patients best manage pain before their hip replacement procedure?
Pain can be managed through prescribed medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications like weight loss. Using heat or cold packs may also provide temporary relief.
Avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter NSAIDs close to surgery without doctor approval.
What items should be included in a pre-operative checklist for total hip replacement?
Essential items include comfortable clothing, prescribed medications, mobility aids like a walker or crutches, and personal hygiene supplies. Preparing the home for recovery with grab bars and elevated seating is strongly recommended.
Organizing important documents and arranging post-surgery transportation are also critical steps.
