When deciding whether to undergo a total hip replacement, many patients naturally want to know how long their prosthesis is likely to last.

In the past, figures such as 8 or 12 years were often quoted. However, modern data shows that these numbers may no longer accurately reflect current outcomes. The longevity of a hip replacement depends on many individual factors, and it is not possible to provide an exact lifespan that applies to every patient.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Hip Replacement in Australia?

Australia has some of the most comprehensive joint replacement data in the world thanks to the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR), established in 1999.

This registry records details from almost every hip replacement performed in Australia. When a revision procedure is required, this is also recorded. The registry publishes annual reports analysing long-term outcomes and revision rates. This data assists surgeons and patients in making informed decisions based on large-scale Australian evidence.

According to the latest registry report:

• The overall risk of requiring revision surgery after 19 years is approximately 10.6%.

• For male patients, the revision rate at 19 years is 11.7%.

• For female patients, the revision rate at 19 years is 9.6%.

Many patients are reassured to learn that the majority of hip replacements are still functioning well nearly two decades after surgery.

It is important to understand that registry data reflects population averages. Individual outcomes can vary.

Why Might a Hip Replacement Need Revision?

The most common reasons for revision hip surgery include:

• Loosening of the implant

• Fracture of the bone around the prosthesis

• Infection

• Recurrent dislocation

Less common reasons include:

• Persistent pain

• Leg length discrepancy

• Implant wear or breakage

• Malposition of components

While revision surgery is sometimes necessary, advances in implant design, materials and surgical techniques have contributed to improved long-term durability.

Factors That Influence How Long a Hip Replacement Lasts

Several factors can affect implant longevity:

Age

Patients under 55 years of age have higher revision rates compared with those over 75. Younger patients tend to place greater physical demands on their joint replacements over time.

The average age of hip replacement recipients in Australia is approximately 67 years.

Sex

Registry data shows slightly higher revision rates in male patients compared with females.

General Health and Weight

Obesity and certain medical conditions may increase the risk of complications or revision.

Implant Selection

Registry data assists surgeons in selecting prostheses with demonstrated long-term performance. For example, one commonly used prosthesis in Australia has 15-year data from more than 69,000 procedures, with a reported revision rate of 5.4% at 15 years according to registry figures.

Implant choice is based on multiple factors including patient anatomy, age, bone quality and activity level.

Can a Hip Replacement Last 30 Years?

With modern implants and surgical techniques, many hip replacements are lasting longer than in previous decades. While it is not possible to guarantee a specific lifespan, long-term Australian registry data suggests that a substantial proportion of hip replacements continue to function well beyond 15–20 years.

Younger patients should carefully consider the possibility that revision surgery may be required during their lifetime, particularly if surgery is performed at an early age.

Making an Informed Decision

Total hip replacement is most commonly performed for osteoarthritis and is generally considered when symptoms significantly impact quality of life and non-surgical treatments are no longer effective.

Registry data from Australia provides valuable information that helps guide discussions about expected outcomes and revision risk. However, every patient is different. A personalised assessment is essential to determine whether surgery is appropriate and to discuss potential risks and benefits.

If you are considering hip replacement surgery, a consultation allows for an individualised discussion about your symptoms, imaging findings, health factors and long-term considerations.