Minimally invasive, muscle sparing hip replacement facilitates getting home the day of surgery
Anterior, or "front" approach avoids cutting muscle
Outpatient Hip Replacement
Minimally Invasive Anterior Hip Replacement in Orange County
If hip pain is limiting your daily activities — walking, climbing stairs, or even sleeping comfortably — you may be a candidate for hip replacement surgery. Dr. David Molho is a Board Certified, Fellowship Trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive outpatient hip replacement, serving patients throughout Orange County from offices in Irvine, Laguna Woods, and Los Alamitos.
What is Anterior Hip Replacement?
The anterior approach to hip replacement accesses the hip joint from the front of the body, working through a natural gap between muscles rather than cutting through them. This muscle-sparing technique means less trauma to surrounding tissue, less post-operative pain, and a significantly faster recovery compared to traditional posterior hip replacement surgery.\
Benefits of the Anterior Approach:
Go home the same day of surgery
Walk without a walker sooner
No posterior hip precautions (no restrictions on bending or crossing legs)
Lower risk of dislocation
Smaller incision and less visible scarring
Faster return to normal activities
Am I a Candidate?
You may be a candidate for hip replacement if you experience chronic hip pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or injections. Common causes include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis. Dr. Molho will perform a thorough evaluation including X-rays to determine the best treatment plan for you.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Most of Dr. Molho's hip replacement patients go home the same day as their surgery. The procedure typically takes one to two hours. You will be walking with assistance within hours of surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Molho?
Dr. Molho is a Board Certified, Fellowship Trained hip and knee replacement specialist with over 132 five-star Google reviews. As a published medical illustrator, he brings a uniquely precise, artistic understanding of anatomy to every procedure. With convenient offices in Irvine, Laguna Woods, and Los Alamitos, he serves patients throughout Orange County including Mission Viejo, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Anaheim, and beyond.
Ready to take the first step? Call or text (949) 586-3200 or click below to request an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the anterior approach to hip replacement?
The anterior approach is a minimally invasive technique that accesses the hip joint from the front of the hip. Unlike traditional posterior or lateral approaches, the anterior approach works between the muscles rather than cutting through them. This muscle-sparing technique results in less pain, faster recovery, greater stability, and fewer post-operative restrictions.
Can I go home the same day as hip replacement surgery?
Yes. The vast majority of Dr. Molho's hip replacement patients go home the same day as surgery. His minimally invasive anterior approach and comprehensive pain management protocol allow most patients to walk within hours of their procedure and recover comfortably at home.
How long does anterior hip replacement surgery take?
The procedure typically takes one to two hours. After surgery, you will spend time in the recovery area before being discharged home the same day.
Am I too old for hip replacement surgery?
Age alone does not disqualify someone from hip replacement. Dr. Molho evaluates each patient individually based on their overall health, activity level, and severity of hip pain. Many patients in their, 80s, and even 90s have successful outpatient hip replacements and return to the activities they enjoy.
What causes hip arthritis?
The most common cause is osteoarthritis — the gradual wearing away of cartilage in the hip joint over time. Other causes include rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the bone), prior hip injuries, and developmental hip conditions. When cartilage wears down, bone rubs against bone, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Does Dr. Molho accept my insurance?
Dr. Molho's office accepts most major insurance plans. Please click below or call (949) 586-3200 to verify your specific coverage before scheduling an appointment.