Hip replacement surgery is meant to relieve pain and restore your mobility — not leave you struggling with discomfort long after recovery. But for some patients, that’s exactly what happens. Whether it’s persistent pain, instability or a sense that something just isn’t right, ongoing symptoms after a hip replacement can be frustrating and worrying.
If you’re in this situation, you’re not alone — and it might be time to get a second opinion.
When pain after a hip replacement isn’t normal
It’s normal to have some soreness after surgery. But if the pain continues for months, feels sharp or deep-seated, or interferes with everyday activities, there may be an underlying issue with the joint or implant itself.
Common signs something may be wrong include:
- Ongoing groin, thigh or buttock pain
- Clicking, grinding or instability in the joint
- Difficulty walking, standing or climbing stairs
- A sense that the hip feels “off” or doesn’t move smoothly
These symptoms can stem from a number of causes — including implant loosening, wear and tear, incorrect positioning, infection or even the wrong implant choice for your anatomy.
Why a second opinion matters
A second opinion can bring clarity and direction when your recovery isn’t going to plan. Mr Nirav Shah sees many patients referred for complex or failed hip replacements — whether the original procedure was carried out privately or on the NHS.
His role is to take a step back, review everything thoroughly, and pinpoint the problem. This includes:
- A full review of your symptoms and medical history
- Examination of previous scans and surgical reports
- Additional imaging or blood tests if needed
- An honest, expert opinion on the best next steps
Sometimes the issue can be resolved without further surgery. In other cases, revision hip surgery may be the most effective way forward.
A specialist in complex hip replacement and revision surgery
Mr Shah has performed more than 10,000 orthopaedic procedures, with a strong focus on complex and revision hip surgeries. For patients needing a second or re-done replacement, he offers advanced techniques and a tailored approach.
His preferred method for most primary and revision replacements is an uncemented, big ball ceramic-on-ceramic implant. Why? Because this combination offers:
- Greater stability and reduced risk of dislocation
- Longer lifespan of the implant due to minimal wear
- Excellent range of motion for active lifestyles
- Reliable fixation that integrates naturally with your bone
In the right patient, this can mean a hip that truly lasts a lifetime — even if your first replacement didn’t live up to expectations.
Experience you can trust
Choosing a specialist with the right experience makes all the difference. Mr Shah not only has decades of surgical expertise but also takes the time to listen, explain and involve you in your treatment decisions.
If you’re unsure about your current diagnosis, or if your hip replacement simply isn’t working as it should, a second opinion could give you the answers — and relief — you’ve been looking for.
Time for a second opinion?
If you’re experiencing ongoing pain after hip replacement, Mr Shah can help you understand why — and what can be done to put things right. To arrange a second opinion consultation in West Sussex, please get in touch with our team today.
