On the path to restoring your quality of life
Surgery is only the first step — recovery and rehabilitation are just as important for the best outcome. This page explains what you can expect after your operation, from your hospital stay through to your return home, and the steps you can take to help your recovery.
Immediately After Surgery
You will wake up in the recovery area under close monitoring by the anaesthetic team.
Once stable, you will be transferred to the ward.
Once stable, you will be transferred to the ward.
Some discomfort is expected, but the goal is to keep you comfortable enough to move and begin rehabilitation.
Dr Robinson and his team of doctors and nurses will monitor your blood pressure, wound site, circulation, and overall wellbeing.
Preventing complications such as blood clots and infection is a priority.
Most joint replacement patients stay in hospital for 2 days. Rarely do patients need to stay beyond this.Arthroscopy and smaller procedures may be day surgery.
Larger procedures such as periacetabular osteotomies may need further time in hospital prior to discharge.
A physiotherapist will see you soon after surgery to help you start moving safely.
Nurses will show you how to keep your wound clean and dry.
Dressings are applied in theatre and should remain in place until your first follow-up appointment approximately two weeks post surgery, unless specifically instructed by Dr Robinson.
Nurses will show you how to keep your wound clean and dry.
You may be prescribed blood-thinning medication to reduce the risk of clots.
Continue with your regular medications unless advised otherwise.
You will only be discharged once it is safe and you can manage at home (or with support).
The hospital team will provide written discharge instructions, including medications and wound care.
Arrange for a family member, friend, or carer to help with meals, mobility and dailty activities during the day for the first few days.
If needed, rehabilitation can continue in a rehab facility before going home.
Some pain and swelling is normal in the weeks after surgery.
Use prescribed pain medication, ice, and rest as instructed.
Dr Robinson’s rooms will organise your first two post-operative appointments prior to your procedure date (usually two weeks and six weeks post-operatively).
The two week check-up, often with a nurse, includes a check of the wound and a review of your pain and recovery. Your six week appointment is to check your progress and return to function. A repeat x-ray may be requested prior to this appointment.
Further follow-ups will be scheduled as necessary beyond this time point depending on your recovery and type of surgery.
A letter summarising your surgery and post-operative recovery will be sent to your GP on discharge from the hospital.
Activity
Follow your physiotherapy program to build strength and mobility.
Avoid high-impact or strenuous activity until cleared by Dr Robinson.
Driving is not permitted until you can safely control a car and are no longer taking strong pain medication.
Wound Care
Keep your wound clean and dry with intact dressings until your first follow-up appointment.
Do not submerge your the wound in a bath, spa, or pool until cleared by Dr Robinson, typically 3 weeks after your surgery.
Warning Signs
Contact the rooms or go to the emergency department if you notice:
Fever or chills
Increasing redness, swelling, or discharge from your wound
Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication
Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
Calf pain or swelling
Work – Return depends on your job and type of surgery. Light duties may be possible after a few weeks; heavy or physical work may take longer.
Driving – Usually safe from 2–6 weeks, once you can perform an emergency stop confidently and safely.
Sport & Exercise – Low-impact activities (cycling, walking, swimming) are encouraged after your surgeon’s clearance. High-impact sports may not be suitable after joint replacement.
Stick to your physiotherapy program — it is one of the most important factors in a good outcome.
Eat a balanced diet with enough protein, iron, and vitamins to support healing.
Stay active, but pace yourself — recovery is a steady process.
Avoid smoking and excess alcohol as they increase complication risks.
Our team is here to support you throughout your recovery. If you have concerns after your operation, please contact our rooms. For urgent problems, seek medical attention immediately.
