Robotic & Custom Joint

What is hip resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing is a bone-preserving alternative to total hip replacement. Instead of removing the entire femoral head, the cartilage is replaced with a ceramic cap. This allows the hip to function in a way that feels more natural, especially under load.

 

What is anterior approach hip resurfacing?

A new technique for hip resurfacing which utilises a muscles sparing anterior approach. Hip resurfacing is commonly done through a posterior approach, which involves a large incision, painful scar over your bum, big release of many tendons and cutting through gluteal muscles - which is not only painful but takes a long time to recover. Patients commonly describe waking up with a "corked buttock". Anterior approach is muscle preserving, with a 7 cm incision used to facilitate a natural interval between muscles.

 

Dr. Mike Millar uses this approach to afford faster recovery, preservation of muscle, and a small, cosmetically appealing scar. It is an approach which allows accurate component positioning using the latest technology, while combining rapid recovery by avoiding any cuts or injury to muscles. 

 

Who is resurfacing best suited for?

Hip resurfacing is ideal for active patients who place higher physical demands on their joints. This includes surfers, mountain bikers, skiers, martial artists, footballers, tennis players, netballers, hikers and others who want to maintain a high level of activities.

 

Is hip resurfacing suitable for women?

Historically, implant design limited suitability for women. However, with modern systems such as ReCerf ceramic-on-ceramic resurfacing, many female patients are now excellent candidates. Dr Mike Millar assesses each case individually to ensure the safest and most effective option.

 

What is the ReCerf system?

ReCerf is a ceramic-on-ceramic hip resurfacing implant designed to avoid the metal-on-metal issues seen in older resurfacing devices. Its benefits include:

• No metal ion release

• Low wear rates

• Excellent stability

• Suitable for both females and males

Dr Mike Millar uses ReCerf because it offers a modern, bone-preserving option for active patients.

 

How is resurfacing different from a total hip replacement?

Key differences:

• More bone preserved on the femoral side

• Larger femoral head size, reducing risk of dislocation

• More natural mechanics, especially under athletic load

• Often preferred by high-demand patients

 

What are the benefits of hip resurfacing?

Patients often experience:

• Strong, stable joint feel

• Excellent range of motion

• Confidence with impact and rotational activities

• Lower risk of dislocation

• Potential for easier revision surgery later in life

 

What are the potential risks?

As with any surgery, risks include infection, fracture, or implant wear. Dr Mike Millar carefully evaluates bone quality, activity level and anatomy to ensure resurfacing is the right option.

 

How long is the recovery?

Most patients:

• Walk on the day of surgery 

• Resume normal daily activities within 4–6 weeks

• Gradually return to sport from 3 months

• Begin to regain peak performance between 6–12 months

Dr Mike Millar provides a personalised rehabilitation plan tailored to your sport or activity level.

 

Can I return to sport after resurfacing?

Yes — resurfacing is specifically chosen for patients who wish to return to a high activity level. Many patients return to surfing, skiing, cycling, tennis, martial arts and running-based sports once cleared.

 

How long does a resurfacing hip last?

Modern implants such as ReCerf have excellent early durability data. Long-term data continues to grow, but current results show strong performance and low wear for active patients, with 98% implant survival at 5 years - which is the same as the highest performing hip replacements on the AOA National Joint Registry.

 

How do I know if resurfacing is right for me?

Dr Mike Millar will assess your bone quality, age, strength, activity level and imaging. If resurfacing is not ideal, he will recommend the most suitable alternative.