Anytime you will be undergoing serious surgery, the last thing you would want to do is go under anesthesia with unanswered questions. If you do, you will be anxious and scared. This definitely holds true for hip or knee replacement. Before you decide whether or not surgery is right for you, ask the right questions and get all of your questions answered.
Here are some common questions you should ask before determining if hip or knee replacement is the right choice for you.
Is Surgery Really Necessary?
Most likely, you will have a choice as to whether or not you should undergo joint replacement. You may not have to have surgery, so you definitely want to ask. Of course, you need to discuss with your doctor when is the right time to have this procedure.
- How long can I wait to have the surgery?
- Will this procedure truly improve my quality of life?
- What will life be like if I decide to not have the surgery?
What Will My Recovery Be Like?
Recovery to a knee or hip replacement will take some time. In fact, it takes longer than almost any other type of surgery. You need to know the recovery time and be prepared to ask the following questions:
- What can I do to make the recovery process speedier?
- What kind of pain will I be in during recovery?
- How long will I have to be off my feet?
- What kind of medications will I be prescribed during surgery?
What are the Risks to Having Surgery?
Even if your doctor has done numerous surgeries, there is still always a risk. There is a risk to any type of operation. To put your mind at ease, you should ask your doctor what kinds of risks you could expect and how serious those risks may be.
Will My Life Go Back to Normal After Recovery?
Of course you must be wondering just how effective hip or knee replacement will be. In many cases, it will completely restore the use of your joint and you will be able to fully enjoy your life again once you have fully recovered. However, it is a good idea to have realistic expectations and you should discuss those expectations with your doctor.
Asking the right questions can ensure that you are ready for your hip or knee replacement surgery. It will ease your mind when you know what to expect and are prepared for the process.