This will depend on which joint you are getting replaced. Let’s take a look at some of the most common incisions:

Hip Replacement Incisions can be anterior (front of the hip), posterior (back of the hip), or lateral (side of the hip), usually about 8-12 inches.

Knee Replacement Incisions are typically vertical, centered over the knee joint, extending from above the knee cap to just below it, and are usually about 8-10 inches. Some patients notice more prominent scarring here due to the knee’s movement during healing.

Shoulder Replacement Incisions are typically on the front of the shoulder, along the natural shoulder crease where the arm meets the shoulder. They’re also typically shorter, about 4-6 inches.

You must wait until your wound is fully closed before starting use of your silicone scar products, when your wound has begun the “maturation phase” of scar healing. In short, this means your wound is no longer oozing, bleeding, scabbing, etc, which usually takes a few weeks. However if in doubt, we also suggest consulting your doctor to see if it’s time for scar treatment.

Scars generally do not limit flexibility if the recovery process includes physical therapy and scar massage. However, aggressive scar tissue formation, called adhesions, may need treatment if it affects movement. Using silicone scar products can help prevent the overproduction of scar tissue, allowing your incision to heal flat and smooth, retaining mobility of the joint.

Initial recovery takes about 6-12 weeks, during which time patients will use various mobility aids and undergo physical therapy to rebuild their strength. On the whole, however, full joint replacement recovery can take 6-12 months.

Knee replacement surgery often involves a vertical incision down the knee, while hip replacement may have anterior, posterior, or lateral incisions based on the surgeon’s approach.

While both of these procedures effectively relieve pain and restore mobility, knee replacements may involve a more demanding recovery, especially for achieving full range of motion. Hip replacements generally result in faster mobility improvements with fewer functional restrictions.

When recovering from a hip or knee replacement, most patients are able to walk (with assistance) within the first few days (though you definitely want to take it easy!) Many patients require crutches, a walker, or a cane for initial support, and, alongside physical therapy, are able to walk independently in 4-6 weeks.