Repeat hip operations take longer and are more complex than initial hip replacement surgery. They are also more likely to cause complications than the original operation. You may also find that your new joint doesn’t improve your mobility as much as the first operation did. Complications that can affect your mobility after hip revision surgery include the following. Infection. An infection causes pain and swelling and can be quite debilitating. You’ll be given antibiotics but if these don’t help, you may need to have the implant removed. Scarring. Your surgeon may make cuts over your original scars, which means the tissue may not heal as well as before. Scar tissue can make your leg muscles feel stiff and affect your walking. Fragile bones. As we get older, our bones become thinner so they’re more likely to break. With each revision, there’s less bone to hold the new implant in place. Your joint is more likely to become loose or dislocate with each revision. Leg length difference. During hip revision surgery, more bone is removed because your old implant has to be taken out before your new one is fitted. So, you’re more likely to have a difference in leg length and a slight limp.   Hip revision techniques are improving all the time, and there’s every chance you’ll have a good quality of life afterwards. You may always have a limp or need to use a shoe insert, but most people should be able to return to their everyday activities. Speak to your surgeon who will be able to discuss your particular circumstances with you.