Hip Replacement Surgery in Singapore
Dr Wang Lushun
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore)
MRCS (Edin)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
Clinical focus
- Hip replacement surgery for osteoarthritis, hip fractures, and related joint conditions
- Fellowship-trained in hip and knee arthroplasty (Sir John Charnley Fellowship, Wrightington Hospital, UK)
- Senior Consultant with extensive experience in hip and knee arthroplasty and complex revision procedures
FRCS (Orth) Edinburgh | SMC Registered | Medisave Accredited | NUHS Orthopaedic Core Faculty
What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is an orthopaedic procedure in which a damaged or worn hip joint is replaced with an implant. It is commonly indicated for patients with advanced joint deterioration from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, or avascular necrosis.
The procedure addresses the structural source of persistent joint pain using biocompatible implants designed to restore function and support a return to daily activities.
Clinical goals of hip replacement surgery
- Restoration of joint function to support a return to daily activities
- Management of chronic joint pain at its structural source
- Improvement in range of motion through anatomically designed implants
- Reduction of reliance on long-term pain medication, subject to individual clinical outcomes
When Hip Replacement Surgery May Be Considered
Persistent hip pain and reduced joint function may indicate that conservative management is no longer adequate. The following are clinical indicators commonly associated with candidacy for hip replacement surgery in Singapore. A formal assessment by a registered orthopaedic surgeon is required to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Persistent Pain Despite Conservative Management
When prescribed analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications no longer provide adequate symptom relief, this may indicate significant structural joint damage. A clinical evaluation can help determine whether further intervention is appropriate.
Stiffness and Restricted Range of Motion
Difficulty performing daily tasks such as walking, bending, or sitting due to joint stiffness and reduced mobility may suggest progressive joint deterioration that warrants orthopaedic assessment.
Sleep Disturbance Related to Hip Pain
Persistent hip discomfort that interrupts sleep or remains present during periods of rest may indicate that the joint condition has progressed beyond what conservative management can adequately address.
Bone-on-Bone Joint Wear
Imaging evidence of bone-on-bone contact within the hip joint, often accompanied by grinding sensations and difficulty with movement, is a clinical indicator commonly associated with advanced joint degeneration.
Considering Hip Replacement Surgery?
Speak With an Orthopaedic Surgeon.
Speak With an Orthopaedic Surgeon.
Hip replacement surgery aims to address the structural causes of persistent joint pain and reduced mobility. A clinical assessment with a registered orthopaedic surgeon can help determine whether this procedure is an appropriate option for your condition.
Am I A Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?
Determining suitability for hip replacement surgery requires a clinical evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist. This assessment identifies whether surgical intervention represents an appropriate pathway for managing joint degeneration and persistent discomfort.
During a consultation, the following factors are considered:
Impact on Daily Activities
Persistent hip discomfort that significantly restricts routine movements, such as walking, bending, or putting on footwear, is an important clinical indicator assessed during your consultation.
Response to Non-Surgical Management
When conservative treatments, including prescribed medications, physiotherapy, and activity modifications, no longer provide sufficient relief, surgical assessment may be warranted.
Clinical Evidence of Joint Damage
The presence of significant structural damage or joint-space narrowing, confirmed by diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans, is part of the clinical assessment.
Overall Health Status
An evaluation of the patient’s general health is undertaken to ensure safe administration of anaesthesia and the ability to participate in post-operative rehabilitation.
Symptom Persistence
Pain that persists during rest or disrupts sleep may indicate advanced joint wear and is considered during the clinical assessment.
When Is Hip Replacement Surgery Typically Considered?
Hip replacement surgery is generally considered when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, prescribed medication, and activity modification no longer provide adequate relief, and persistent joint pain begins to affect a patient’s ability to perform daily activities. The timing of surgery depends on several clinical factors, including the severity of joint degeneration, the degree of functional limitation, and the patient’s overall health status. The final treatment decision is made by a registered orthopaedic surgeon following a thorough clinical assessment.
How Long Does Recovery From Hip Replacement Surgery Take?
Recovery from hip replacement surgery typically begins within 24 hours of the procedure and progresses over six months to one year. Timelines vary based on the surgical approach, the extent of pre-operative joint degeneration, and the patient’s adherence to a structured rehabilitation programme. Your orthopaedic surgeon will provide a recovery plan tailored to your clinical condition.
Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery Process
| Recovery Period | Clinical Expectations |
|---|---|
| First 24 hours Immediate post-op Inpatient |
|
| Weeks 0 to 2 Early recovery Inpatient/discharge |
|
| Weeks 2 to 6 Progressive recovery Outpatient follow-up |
|
| Weeks 6 to 12 Functional recovery Ongoing physiotherapy |
|
| 3 to 6 months Extended recovery Clinic review |
|
| 6 months to 1 year Long-term assessment Long-term review |
|
Dr Wang Lushun
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore)
MRCS (Edin)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
Internationally Recognised & Double Fellowship-Trained Surgeon With Over 18 Years of Experience
- Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS),
National University of Singapore - Member of The Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS),
Edinburgh, United Kingdom - Master of Medicine in Orthopaedic Surgery (MMed),
National University of Singapore - Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons in Orthopaedics and Traumatology (FRCS), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
As a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and former Head of the Hip and Knee Division in Ng Teng Fong Hospital, he has won awards for superior patient outcomes (value driven), service quality and enhanced recovery programmes. His patients include current and former national athletes and sporting professionals.
Why Choose
Dr Wang Lushun?
Trusted
Leadership on Orthopaedic Advisory Boards
Skilful
Double Fellowships at Centres of Excellence
Experienced
Senior Consultant with Over 18 Years of Experience
Patient-Centred Orthopaedic Care
Our clinic focuses on the management of orthopaedic conditions to support patient recovery and mobility. We provide clinical assessments for individuals seeking to address joint conditions and return to daily activities.
Individualised Treatment Planning
Dr Wang Lushun dedicates time to evaluating each patient's specific orthopaedic requirements. He provides clinical management tailored to the patient's condition, aiming to achieve measurable clinical milestones.
Surgical Techniques Including the Direct Anterior Approach
Dr Wang utilises a range of surgical protocols for hip replacement, including the Direct Anterior Approach. This technique accesses the hip joint from the front of the body, working between existing muscle groups. Your surgeon will advise on the most appropriate surgical approach for your individual condition following a clinical assessment.
Structured Post-Operative Aftercare
Our aftercare protocols are designed to monitor patient progress following a procedure. We provide guided rehabilitation plans focused on restoring joint function and supporting patients throughout the recovery process.
Hip Replacement Cost in Singapore
The total cost of hip replacement surgery in Singapore depends on several clinical factors, including the surgical approach used, the type of prosthesis selected, and the duration of the inpatient stay. We provide transparent financial information to enable patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
| Service | Fee (Nett) |
|---|---|
| Professional Fee for Total Hip Replacement |
SGD 10,464 – SGD 15,696 (surgeon fee, incl. GST) |
| Anaesthetist Fee | SGD 2,289 – SGD 3,706 (incl. GST) |
| Estimated Total Bill (Private Hospital, Inpatient) | SGD 42,857 – SGD 55,244 (typical range) |
Fees are subject to change. Final costs depend on surgical complexity, prosthesis selection, and hospital stay duration. Please contact the clinic for a personalised estimate.
Financing and Public Schemes
Patients may be eligible to utilise national schemes to assist with the cost of their procedure. Our clinic participates in the following programmes:
Medisave
Medisave may be used to offset inpatient surgical expenses for hip replacement surgery in Singapore, subject to Ministry of Health withdrawal limits that vary by procedure classification. Our clinic can provide guidance on applicable Medisave claims during your consultation.
Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS)
Eligible Singapore Citizens may receive subsidies for medical care at our clinic under the Community Health Assist Scheme.
Integrated Shield Plans
We work with various private insurers to facilitate claims for hospitalisation and surgical procedures. Please check with your insurer for the terms of your policy.
Our Clinic Locations
3 Mount Elizabeth, #13-14
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
820 Thomson Road, Mount Alvernia Hospital, #05-51, Medical Centre D, Singapore 574623
Frequently Asked Questions About Hip Replacement Surgery in Singapore
What level of discomfort can be expected after hip replacement surgery?
Patients typically experience post-operative discomfort in the days following surgery, which is managed through clinical pain management protocols. While some initial symptoms are expected, these generally subside as the surgical site heals and the patient progresses through physiotherapy. The procedure aims to address the structural bone-on-bone friction caused by advanced joint wear.
What are the different surgical approaches for hip replacement?
There are several surgical approaches to access the hip joint, including the Direct Anterior, Direct Superior, and conventional Posterior or Lateral approaches. The Direct Anterior Approach accesses the hip from the front, working between existing muscle groups. Dr Wang Lushun evaluates each patient’s joint condition and medical history to determine the most appropriate approach for their individual needs.
What is the Direct Anterior Approach, and how does it differ from other approaches?
The Direct Anterior Approach is a surgical technique that accesses the hip joint from the front of the body, working between existing muscle groups without detaching them from the bone. Unlike posterior approaches, no posterior hip precautions are typically required during early recovery, which may allow patients to resume certain movements sooner within their rehabilitation programme. Patients generally begin supervised mobilisation within the first 24 hours of surgery. This approach requires specific anatomical suitability and is not appropriate for all patients. Your surgeon will advise on whether it is suitable for your individual condition following a thorough clinical assessment.
How long is the hospital stay after hip replacement surgery?
Hospital stay duration varies depending on the individual patient, the surgical approach, and the pace of recovery. Patients typically begin mobilisation within the first 24 hours under physiotherapy supervision. Your surgeon will provide an estimated inpatient timeline during your pre-operative consultation.
Will my gait return to normal after the procedure?
The primary goal of hip replacement is to restore joint function and improve mobility. Following a structured rehabilitation programme, many patients aim to achieve a more natural gait and reduced joint-related discomfort. Individual outcomes depend on pre-existing joint health and adherence to post-operative recovery plans.
What activities or movements should be avoided after surgery?
During the initial recovery phase, patients are typically advised to avoid specific movements such as excessive hip flexion or internal rotation to support joint stability. For long-term joint maintenance, high-impact activities such as long-distance running are generally not advised in order to reduce potential strain on the prosthesis. Low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling may be resumed once clinically cleared.
Is stair climbing permitted after the operation?
Yes. Patients are progressively introduced to stair climbing as part of their inpatient physiotherapy programme. Clinical guidelines generally recommend the use of handrails and specific stepping techniques during the early weeks of recovery to support patient safety.
What are the considerations associated with delaying a clinically recommended hip replacement?
Postponing surgery when clinically indicated may lead to a progressive decline in joint mobility and an increase in chronic pain as the joint continues to deteriorate. Over time, this may result in compensatory changes to gait and secondary strain on the lower back or the opposite hip.
Can I use Medisave to pay for hip replacement surgery in Singapore?
Yes, Medisave may be used to offset inpatient surgical expenses for hip replacement surgery, subject to Ministry of Health withdrawal limits that vary by procedure classification. Our clinic can provide guidance on applicable Medisave claims during your consultation.
Can I travel or fly after hip replacement surgery?
The suitability and timing of air travel following hip replacement surgery depend on individual recovery progress and the length of the flight. Your orthopaedic surgeon will advise on when travel is appropriate based on your clinical assessment and rehabilitation progress.
What nutritional considerations are recommended after surgery?
A balanced diet is important to support tissue repair and recovery. Patients are generally encouraged to consume adequate protein for muscle maintenance, alongside Vitamin D and calcium to support bone health. Maintaining a healthy body weight may also help reduce mechanical stress on the new joint.
Is hip replacement a major surgical procedure?
Hip replacement is a significant orthopaedic procedure that involves replacing a damaged hip joint with an artificial implant under general or regional anaesthesia. As with all surgical procedures, there are associated risks, which your surgeon will discuss in detail during your pre-operative consultation. Suitability for surgery is assessed on an individual basis.
How do I find a hip replacement surgeon in Singapore?
A hip replacement surgeon in Singapore should be registered with the Singapore Medical Council and hold specialist qualifications in orthopaedic surgery. Dr Wang Lushun is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with fellowship training in hip and knee arthroplasty. You may request a consultation directly through our clinic to discuss your condition and determine the most appropriate course of management.
Request a Consultation With Dr Wang Lushun
