Hip replacement is one of the most common and most predictable operations in orthopaedics. For people whose hip pain from osteoarthritis has taken over walking, sleep and daily life, it can make a real difference. This guide explains when surgery is considered, how the operation is planned and what the weeks after it look like when you travel to Istanbul for treatment.
When is a hip replacement considered?
The decision is based on symptoms and X-rays together. Typical signs are groin or hip pain that limits walking distance, pain at night, difficulty putting on socks and shoes, and X-rays showing advanced wear of the joint. Physiotherapy, weight control, walking aids and injections are tried first; surgery is considered when they no longer give enough relief. Age alone is not a reason for or against the operation.
How the implant and approach are chosen
The orthopaedic surgeon chooses cemented or cementless fixation according to bone quality, and bearing surfaces such as ceramic on polyethylene. The hip can be reached from the back, the side or the front; each approach has advantages, and the surgeon uses the one that suits your anatomy and their experience. Before surgery your general health, heart and lungs are checked, and any infection, for example in the teeth or urinary tract, is treated.
The hospital stay
Most patients stand up with a frame and a physiotherapist on the day after surgery. During a stay of three to five nights you learn to walk with crutches, climb stairs and get in and out of bed safely. Measures to prevent blood clots, such as early walking and compression stockings, are planned by your physician.
Flying home
Plan about 10 to 14 days in Istanbul so that the wound can be checked and your surgeon can clear you to fly. On the flight choose an aisle seat, walk when you can and follow your physician’s advice on preventing clots. You leave with a written exercise programme and a report for your doctor at home.
Hip replacement: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
Hip replacement with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about hip replacement, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
Weeks 1–2
Walking with crutches, daily exercises and wound checks. Avoid the movements your surgeon has told you to avoid.
Weeks 3–6
Walking distance increases; many people move to one crutch or a stick. Desk work is often possible from around week five.
Months 2–3
Driving and low-impact activities such as swimming and cycling are usually possible after your surgeon’s approval.
Months 3–12
Strength and stamina keep improving; the final result settles over about a year.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a hip replacement last?
Modern implants are designed to last many years. Lifespan depends on activity, weight, bone quality and implant type, and cannot be guaranteed.
Can I have both hips replaced at once?
In selected patients in good health, yes; your surgeon decides after assessing your general health.
What should I send for a quote?
Recent X-rays of the pelvis and hip, a short medical history and a list of your health conditions.
Deciding on hip replacement is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
