Hip Replacement Surgery in Seoul Robotic-assisted option
When arthritis has worn your hip down and everyday walking hurts, a total hip replacement can relieve pain and help you move again. We explain every step in English.
Gangnam Nanoori Hospital, at 731 Eonju-ro in Gangnam, Seoul, near Hakdong Station Exit 10, offers total hip replacement for advanced hip arthritis, including a robotic-assisted option. Orthopedic surgeons replace the worn ball and socket with implants, followed by physical therapy with dedicated therapists. English-speaking coordinators help international patients plan care; book by WhatsApp at +82-10-6290-9796.
Who may benefit from hip replacement
Hip replacement is usually considered when damage inside the joint is advanced and non-surgical care no longer controls your symptoms. If you are not sure what is causing your pain, start with our Hip Center overview.
Advanced osteoarthritis
X-rays show the cartilage has worn away and the joint space has narrowed or disappeared.
Pain that limits life
Hip pain disturbs sleep, walking, stairs or putting on shoes and socks, despite treatment.
Non-surgical care tried
Physical therapy, medication, activity changes and injections have not given lasting relief.
Stiffness and limping
The hip has lost movement and you limp or need a cane for short distances.
Other joint damage
Arthritis after old injuries, rheumatoid arthritis or loss of blood supply to the femoral head.
Certain hip fractures
Some fractures of the upper thigh bone in older adults are best treated with replacement.
How total hip replacement works
In a total hip arthroplasty, the surgeon replaces both damaged surfaces of the joint. The aim is a stable, well-aligned hip that moves smoothly. Younger patients without advanced arthritis may be better suited to hip arthroscopy.
Assessment and planning
Your surgeon reviews your exam, X-rays and health history. With the robotic-assisted option, imaging is used to plan implant size and position.
Anesthesia
The operation is done under spinal or general anesthesia. Your anesthesia team will discuss which suits you.
Removing damaged bone
The worn femoral head is removed and the socket is prepared to accept a new cup.
Placing the implants
A metal cup with a smooth liner goes into the socket, and a stem with a new ball goes into the thigh bone.
Checking stability
The surgeon tests movement, stability and leg length before closing the wound.
Robotic-assisted vs conventional hip replacement
Both approaches replace the same parts of the hip with similar implants. The robotic system is a tool that helps the surgeon carry out the plan; the surgeon performs the operation.
| Robotic-assisted | Conventional | |
|---|---|---|
| Planning | Image-based plan for implant size and position before surgery | Planned from X-rays and the surgeon's judgment |
| During surgery | Robotic guidance helps place the cup to the planned angle | Surgeon positions implants by hand with standard instruments |
| Who performs it | Your orthopedic surgeon, assisted by the robotic arm | Your orthopedic surgeon |
| Recovery | Similar overall recovery and rehabilitation | Similar overall recovery and rehabilitation |
| Best for | Your surgeon will advise based on your anatomy | A well-established option for many patients |
Both are mainstream techniques. Your surgeon will explain which is suitable for your hip.
Your recovery timeline
Recovery varies from person to person, but most patients follow a similar path. Our dedicated therapists guide your rehabilitation from the first days.
Day of surgery to day 2
Most patients stand and take first steps with a walker within a day or so, with pain control and blood clot prevention.
First 2 weeks
Walking with a walker or crutches, daily exercises and wound care. Follow the hip precautions your surgeon gives you.
Weeks 2 to 6
Many move to a cane and build strength with physical therapy. Wound check and stitch or staple removal if needed.
Weeks 6 to 12
Most return to normal daily activities. Driving and longer walks are usually resumed with your surgeon's approval.
3 months to 1 year
Strength and stamina keep improving. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming and cycling are usually encouraged long term.
From bone-on-bone to a smooth new joint
Arthritis wears away the cartilage that lets your hip glide. Replacement swaps the damaged surfaces for implants designed to move smoothly.
Simplified medical illustration for education only, not a patient image. Results vary by condition and individual; your specialist will explain what to expect for your case.
Your Specialists
Care at this clinic is provided by Nanoori Joint Center orthopedic surgeons. Tap a doctor to see their full profile.
Dr. Jae Chang Lim
Robotic joint replacement
Dr. Hyun Seok Seo
Robotic replacement and sports medicine
Dr. Young Wan Go
Joint replacement, fractures and osteoporosis
Dr. Seong Cheol Moon
Hip conditions and sports injuries
Nanoori specialist on hip conditions and treatment · Video may be in Korean — ask our English-speaking team about anything you see.
Common Questions
How long does a hip replacement last?
Modern hip implants often last many years, and for many patients 15 to 20 years or longer. How long yours lasts depends on factors such as activity level, weight and bone quality. Your surgeon will explain what to expect for you.
How long should I stay in Seoul after surgery?
Plan to stay until your surgeon confirms the wound is healing well and you can walk safely, and discuss the timing of a long flight before booking. Sitting for long periods raises the risk of blood clots, so ask your surgeon about prevention. Our coordinators can help you plan follow-up visits.
Is robotic-assisted surgery better than conventional surgery?
Both are established techniques. The robotic system helps the surgeon place implants according to a detailed plan, while recovery is broadly similar. Your surgeon will recommend the approach that suits your anatomy.
What are the risks?
As with any major surgery, risks include infection, blood clots, dislocation, a difference in leg length and implant loosening over time. Your team takes steps to reduce each of these. Seek urgent care for fever, increasing wound redness, calf swelling or sudden chest pain or breathlessness, and call 119 in a life-threatening emergency.
Will my insurance cover hip replacement?
If you are enrolled in Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS), it can be applied to eligible care. If you have international insurance, our coordinators can explain the billing documents we provide for your claim. Please confirm coverage and any pre-approval with your insurer before surgery.
Do I need a hip replacement, or could arthroscopy help?
Arthroscopy is mainly for problems such as labral tears or impingement in hips without advanced arthritis. Once arthritis is severe, replacement is usually the more reliable option. Learn about hip arthroscopy.
Find out if hip replacement is right for you
Send your X-rays or symptoms on WhatsApp and an English-speaking coordinator will arrange a consultation.
Related Care
Last updated October 2026. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Contact us · Gangnam Nanoori Hospital home
