Hip Replacement Costs

Here’s what you’ll learn about hip replacement costs below:

• How much hip replacements cost
• What the average cost is if you don’t have insurance
• Average out of pocket costs if you do have insurance
• What is included in the costs
• Additional post-surgery costs to be aware of

Hip replacements are not minor surgeries. But they are a life-altering surgery. And one that can help bring relief and transform your life for the better.

Those who suffer from arthritis or a hip injury are typically the best candidates for hip replacement surgery.

In the procedure, the entire hip joint is replaced with artificial parts. The goal of the surgery is to restore motion back to the hips and eliminate pain.

For those suffering with hip pain and limited mobility issues, a hip surgery can be a godsend. But how much will the surgery cost? Let’s look at the average costs below and what you can expect to get for your money.

Average Costs For Hip Replacement Surgery

In the United States, hip replacement surgery usually costs between $31,839 and $44,816. The average cost comes in at $39,299. These averages are for patients with health insurance. This data comes from Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina.

If You Don’t Have Insurance…

If you don’t have health insurance, there are some medical facilities that offer uninsured discounts. Take the Kapiolani Medical Center in Aiea, Hawaii. The full price of a hip surgery there is around $33,000. However, uninsured patients can get a discounted price between $20,212 and $23,581.

Out Of Pocket Costs…

Most health insurance plans cover hip replacement surgery. Experimental surgeries may not be covered by insurance though.

Also, some policies may have a specific exclusion for surgeries like this. So be sure to check your coverage.

If you do have insurance, the surgery is not totally free. Even with insurance you can expect to pay several thousand dollars. This will cover things like deductibles and coinsurance. These out-of-pocket expenses for hip replacement surgery could run up to $3,957, on average.

How The Hip Replacement Surgery Process Works/What The Costs Cover

The hip replacement process usually starts with a visit to an orthopedic surgeon. The surgeon will examine you, get a medical history and take some x-rays. They may also get an MRI to check bone and soft tissues. How many tests are performed, and the types of tests will affect your overall costs.

Hip replacements are not the best course of treatment for everyone with hip problems. So the surgeon may discuss some other treatment options with you.

If surgery is the best option for you, your doctor will give you a list of the things you should do to prepare for surgery. This could include getting blood tests. It may also be a requirement to lose some weight before the surgery.

Once the hip replacement surgery is complete, expect to spend several days in the hospital. This is so the doctors can monitor the effects of the surgery closely.

Post Hip Replacement Surgery Costs

There are additional costs that come up after hip replacement surgery to be aware of. Often there will be some renovations (or at least alterations) of your living space required. This can include installing shower and/or bathroom bar and making sure stairs have secure handrails.

You may also need to hire a helper to help you with your daily tasks. All these things are designed to help your recovery be as safe and easy as possible.

Hip Replacement Complications

As with any surgery, complications may occur with hip replacement surgery. One is a joint infection. However, this happens in only 2 percent of hip replacement surgeries.

There are risks of other complications such as heart attack and stroke. But these too are rare.

Finding a Hip Replacement Surgeon

If you’re ready to find a surgeon, find one certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. And be sure to find one with lots of experience performing hip replacements.

If you are feeling extreme pain in the hips while going about your daily tasks, don’t wait. Consult with a doctor to see if you are a possible candidate for hip replacement surgery.

For more on this procedure, check out this article on common hip replacement myths.