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Hip Resurfacing - An Alternative to Replacement

Hip joint pain transparent coloured view

Hip resurfacing is a specialist procedure designed for patients who want to stay active while preserving as much of their natural hip joint as possible. Instead of removing the entire femoral head, the joint surfaces are reshaped and capped with smooth, durable components.

It restores the joint anatomy and mechanics close to the natural hip joint hence the functional restoration is almost equal to a normal hip joint. For some patients, this approach can offer an excellent solution in terms of pain relief, restoration of mobility and long‑term stability as well as offering a faster return to everyday life and sporting activities.

At The Woodlands Suite, Mr Shakir Hussain offers this life changing surgery who is one of the most experienced and highest volume hip resurfacing surgeons in the UK. Many patients,  like Dan, choose this option after exploring alternatives and seeking a solution that supports an active lifestyle.

Who It’s Suitable For

Hip resurfacing is typically recommended for:

  • Younger or active individuals who want to maintain a high-level of activity and function

  • Patients with strong, healthy bone quality

  • Those living with osteoarthritis, dysplasia, or post‑traumatic arthritis

  • People looking for a bone‑preserving alternative to a full hip replacement

Dan said, “The main factor that made me choose to go ahead with the surgery was the fact that it was available to me, and that Mr Hussain talked me through all the different options. I also really wanted my life back.”

Procedure and Benefits

During hip resurfacing, the femoral head is reshaped and fitted with a cap, while the hip socket receives a matching shell. This creates a smooth, low‑friction joint designed to support natural movement. There are two types of Resurfacing implants available including a Metal on Metal Resurfacing and a Ceramic on Ceramic Resurfacing. 

Benefits include:

  • Preservation of bone: More of the natural femoral bone is retained.

  • Improved stability: The larger joint size reduces the risk of dislocation.

  • Natural movement: Many patients experience excellent range of motion.

  • Future flexibility: If a full hip replacement is needed later in life, revision surgery is often more straightforward.

  • Return to activity: Patients frequently resume sports, exercise, and physically demanding routines.

For Dan, these benefits were key. After his procedure at The Woodlands Suite, he said,

“The initial period is extremely painful — that’s surgical pain, not the underlying hip pain. As you recover and the surgical pain goes away, the difference you feel is honestly life‑changing because you're not living with the underlying osteoarthritic pain.” 

Dan’s story highlights the importance of choosing a specialist centre with extensive experience in resurfacing. At The Woodlands Suite, patients receive consultant‑led care, advanced imaging, and a tailored recovery plan designed to support long‑term outcomes.

Is Hip Resurfacing Right for You? 

Your consultant will carefully assess whether hip resurfacing is the best and safest option for you, based on your bone quality, lifestyle, and overall health. A careful assessment by an expert is critical in decision making. The surgeon will explain what to expect, answer your questions, and discuss any factors that may influence the long‑term success of the procedure.

Because hip resurfacing relies on the strength and shape of the femoral bone, it isn’t suitable for everyone. In some cases, patients may benefit more from a traditional hip replacement or robotic‑assisted hip surgery.