During surgery, leg lengths are measured very carefully. Restoring length to a previously shortened limb often makes it feel longer after surgery. Occasionally, your surgeon may need to lengthen a limb slightly to make your hip joint more stable. Proper measurement of leg lengths requires X-ray films. To prevent clots, people wear compression stockings and receive medication that thins the blood.
People usually take anti-coagulation medication for about three to six weeks after surgery.
Although loosening has been seen before 10 years after surgery, it usually doesn't occur until late after surgery. Loosening is more likely in people who received a joint replacement when they were young and are very active. Today, advances in design and technology make revisions increasingly successful.