Preparing for Joint Replacement

The healthier you are when you go into surgery, the more likely you are to have a smooth recovery. Reduce your risk of complications by making sure you’re physically ready for surgery.

• Stop using tobacco products. It’s best to stop using all tobacco products for 4 weeks before your surgery and for 6 weeks after your surgery. This will help you heal more quickly and protect your future health. Learn about resources to help you quit smoking.
• Eat a balanced diet and drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day.
• Have a dental check-up and complete any necessary dental work before surgery.
• Maintain or achieve a weight that supports a healthy recovery. If extra weight places too much stress on your joints, your surgeon may recommend a medical weight loss program before surgery.
• If you have diabetes, work with your provider who manages your diabetes to make sure you have good blood glucose levels before and after surgery.
• Build strength, endurance, and flexibility by doing the exercises recommended by your orthopedic surgery team.

Get a comprehensive overview of how to prepare for your surgery, hospital stay, and recovery by attending a pre-surgery joint replacement class at least two weeks before your surgery. Depending on your location, you may have the option to attend class in person or via videoconference, or to watch a prerecorded video. Search our calendar to find a class near you.

Before your hip or knee replacement surgery, make sure you have everything you need for a smooth, safe recovery.

• Make plans for someone to help with daily tasks like cleaning, shopping, and transportation.
• Arrange to borrow or buy any recommended medical equipment, such as a walker or cane.
• Tidy up, remove throw rugs and other tripping hazards, and make sure you have good lighting (including nightlights) in and around your home so you have clear, well-lit, walking paths. Make sure any stairs have sturdy safety railings.
• At home, move items you use often to a storage area that’s waist-level so you don’t have to bend over or reach high to get them.
• Follow recommendations from your nurses and rehabilitation therapists on ways to modify your home for safety and comfort.

Follow your orthopedic surgery team's instructions about pre-surgery tests and appointments, medicines, food and drink, how to prepare your skin for surgery, and what to pack in your hospital bag. If you have any questions, call your orthopedic surgeon’s office.

Expect a call from a nurse the day before or Friday before your surgery. During this call, the nurse will answer your questions and tell you what time to arrive at the hospital.