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FAQ

How long do I have to wait for surgery after getting an injection in that same joint?
You need to wait at least 3 months to limit infection risk. Injections of all types change how your joint can fight off
infection. You can get injections in other locations of your body, just not in the same joint as surgery.

How long is the surgery?
Standard hip or knee replacement surgeries take 1-2 hours.

What is the recovery time?
This depends on multiple factors, but most patients feel like they are getting better after replacement surgery around 6
weeks. Full recovery takes a full year for a knee replacement to be as good as it will be. This is because the scar tissue
takes that long to mature/heal.

Can I get a vaccine or booster before/after surgery?
Some things aren’t well studied or understood yet, but we recommend avoiding elective vaccines for 1 month before and
3 months after surgery.

Who do I call with insurance questions about coverage for my surgery?
It is best to call your insurance provider directly. Their number is located on your insurance card. OrthoArizona and the
surgical facility will help work with your insurance company to get approval for your surgery.

Is all this swelling, stiffness and bruising normal?
Yes, your surgical region and entire leg down to your ankle can swell and bruise from surgery! Nothing is wrong. This is
normal and expected.

Can I shower?
Yes, unless you are instructed differently by Dr. Eccles. You may shower when you go home. Your dressing is water-
resistant. After it is removed, you can let soap and water run over the incision and pat it dry. Don’t soak in a bath, pool,
or the ocean until instructed.

Should I put cream on my incision?
Not for at least 6 weeks until your incision is healed and completely sealed. Don’t put anything (Neosporin, Vitamin-E, or
lotions) on your incision until you are instructed to do so by Dr. Eccles.

When will my sutures need to be removed?
Dr. Eccles typically uses absorbable sutures under the skin for closure. These dissolve over time on their own and are
hidden. If other sutures or staples were used, they will typically be removed at your first postoperative visit.

How long should I ice after surgery?
You must ice for as many weeks (and even months) as your body needs for swelling and pain control. Use a “30 minutes
on, 30 minutes off” schedule multiple times daily.

When can I drive?
This depends on what side and what joint was replaced. In general, you must be off prescription pain medication during
the day, not rely on a walker to get around, and be able to stomp down on the brake pedal quickly.

How long do I have to wait until another joint is replaced?
Usually, it is best to wait 3 months to allow your body to recover.

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