What it is
Some or all of an old implant is removed and replaced. Reasons include wear, loosening, infection, instability, fracture around the implant or ongoing pain.
Who it's usually for
People whose replacement is failing. It's more complex than the first operation, so many people see surgeons who specialize in revision surgery.
Pros and cons
✓ Pros
- Can restore a painful or unstable joint.
- Treats infection, sometimes in two stages.
⚠ Cons and risks
- Longer operation with higher risks of infection, blood loss and dislocation.
- Results are usually good but less predictable than a first replacement.
Recovery times are typical ranges; yours may be different. Your surgeon can tell you what to expect.
What recovery is like
Recovery is usually slower than after the first replacement, with a longer exercise program. Your team will tailor it to what was done.
Questions to ask your surgeon
- Why did my replacement fail?
- How many revisions do you do each year?
- Will this be done in one stage or two?
When to get help quickly: Get help the same day for a hot, red, swollen joint with fever, if you can't put weight on your leg after an injury, or, after surgery, for fever, wound drainage, or new calf pain or swelling. For chest pain or sudden shortness of breath, call 911.
What surgeons say in their videos
Videos from different surgeons and doctors, newest first. They share their own views, and we don't rank or endorse any of them.
Common questions about revision hip or knee replacement
What is revision hip or knee replacement?
Some or all of an old implant is removed and replaced. Reasons include wear, loosening, infection, instability, fracture around the implant or ongoing pain.
Who is revision hip or knee replacement for?
People whose replacement is failing. It's more complex than the first operation, so many people see surgeons who specialize in revision surgery.
What is recovery like after revision hip or knee replacement?
Recovery is usually slower than after the first replacement, with a longer exercise program. Your team will tailor it to what was done.
What are the risks of revision hip or knee replacement?
Longer operation with higher risks of infection, blood loss and dislocation. Results are usually good but less predictable than a first replacement.
Getting ready
Losing extra weight, exercising before surgery, stopping smoking and getting your home ready can make surgery safer and recovery easier.
How to get ready for surgery →Find a surgeon
Look up hip and knee surgeons in your state, from public records.
Find a hip & knee surgeon →Other hip & knee surgeries
Sources
We base this page on these major medical organizations and studies. How we write our pages.
General information written for Hip & Knee Surgery, not by the surgeons in the videos. For education only; not medical advice. Last reviewed October 2026.