Hip Resurfacing vs. Hip Replacement – Key Differences Explained

When hip pain due to arthritis, avascular necrosis (AVN), or injury becomes severe, two major surgical options are often considered – Hip Resurfacing and Total Hip Replacement (THR). While both aim to relieve pain and restore mobility, there are key differences that determine which procedure is best for each patient.

What Is Hip Resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing is a bone-conserving surgery where the damaged surface of the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) is reshaped and capped with a smooth metal covering. The hip socket is also fitted with a metal cup.

👉 Unlike hip replacement, the entire femoral head is not removed, which makes this surgery more suitable for younger and active patients.

What Is Hip Replacement?

In a Total Hip Replacement, the damaged ball of the femur is removed completely and replaced with a metal or ceramic implant, while the hip socket is lined with a prosthetic cup.

👉 This is one of the most successful surgeries worldwide and is typically recommended for older patients, severe arthritis, or advanced bone damage.

Key Differences Between Hip Resurfacing and Hip Replacement

Feature	Hip Resurfacing	Hip Replacement
Bone Preservation	Preserves most of the femoral head and neck	Removes the entire femoral head
Best Suited For	Younger, active patients (usually men <55 yrs)	Older patients, severe arthritis, or poor bone quality
Implant Size	Larger ball → more natural hip movement	Smaller ball compared to resurfacing
Dislocation Risk	Lower (larger head provides stability)	Slightly higher (smaller head size)
Revision Surgery	Easier to convert to full hip replacement later	More complex if revision is needed
Recovery Time	Similar recovery timeline, with quicker return to high-impact activities	Excellent outcomes but restrictions on high-impact sports
Limitations	Not suitable for women with small bone structure, osteoporosis, or poor bone quality	Can be performed in most patients, regardless of bone quality

Which One Is Right for You?

• Hip Resurfacing may be better if:

  • You are young, active, and want to continue sports or high-impact activities.

  • Your bone quality is strong, especially in the femoral head and neck.

• Hip Replacement may be better if:

  • You are older or have weaker bone quality (osteoporosis, AVN, severe arthritis).

  • You need a proven, long-lasting solution with predictable outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Both hip resurfacing and hip replacement are highly effective surgeries, but the choice depends on age, activity level, bone quality, and medical condition.

As an orthopaedic surgeon, my role is to guide patients with a personalized approach, ensuring they get the treatment that restores mobility, reduces pain, and improves quality of life.

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About Dr. Kashyap Prabhu Solanki & Dr. Prabhu Solanki

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri, Mumbai

Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.

With over four decades of distinguished orthopaedic practice, Dr. Prabhu Solanki stands as one of Mumbai’s most experienced and respected orthopaedic surgeons. Having treated more than 40,000 patients and performed over 10,000 surgeries, his clinical outcomes and dedication have earned him widespread recognition — not just in Mumbai, but across India and abroad.

Dr. Solanki’s reputation for precision, ethical care, and long-term results has brought him patients from all over India, as well as international patients seeking high-quality orthopaedic treatment and surgical expertise in Mumbai.

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