While there is no definitive answer to how long a total joint replacement will last, typically replacements continue to function as expected for 15 to 20 years. However, both hip and knee replacements have an annual failure rate between 0.5 and 1.0 percent, which means 90 to 95 percent of replacements last for a decade and 80 to 90 percent will last 20 years or longer. As the technology used in implants continues to improve, these rates may further decline and increase replacement longevity. No matter what, patients should continue to have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor replacement performance and discuss any concerns about its function.