I am almost 3 weeks post-BHR surgery on my right hip. Dr. Raphael Klug of Kaiser Roseville CA was my surgeon.
I'm a nearly 60-year old post-menopausal woman. Previous to my year of increasing hip pain and surgery, I was an active stone sculptor. Exercise for me was water aerobics and walking.
Being in the Kaiser system, it took me a while to learn about BHR versus THR options. Then, it took me a more time to find the right surgeon.
The initial meeting with Dr. Klug was informative. I appreciated his candor and experience. He was very clear that while his goal for me was an anterior BHR, I would need to understand that he might choose to do an anterior THR if, once in my hip joint, it was clear that a BHR was not an option. For me this was an important consideration. I wanted a surgeon to have all the tools at his disposal for my benefit. Yes, my preference was the BHR but I wanted long term success above all. And, as it turned out, I did get a BHR.
Recovery is going great. I was in the hospital 2 nights. The staff at Kaiser Roseville was sharp, attentive, friendly and motivated. I really appreciated that. They started me with a walker which I used for about 10 days total. Once back home in Sonoma, Physical Therapy came to me. Every day my PT goes better, I walk further and longer with a cane, my stamina increases. I'm looking forward to weaning myself off the cane and getting on an exercise bike. Driving is about 3 weeks away. I'm trying to be patient...
I know that there is a perception out there that some surgeons are generally reluctant to perform BHRs on post-menopausal women. I think it has more to do with the skill and expertise of the surgeon and the way any given patient presents to them. I'm proof that there are good surgeons out there (like Dr. Klug) who are capable and comfortable with working on us middle-aged and older broads.
Hi Jonna
Dr. Klug is an excellent hip resurfacing surgeon with a lot of happy patients including you. His explanation of your situation shows that each person must be judged by their bone density and hip problems - not their sex or age.
Congratulations on that new hip. Take it easy and you will do well. It is diffiucult to stay patient, but important during your early recovery.
I too am one of those older broads when I had my resurfacing at 61.
Thanks for the update. Keep us posted on your recovery and Good Luck.
Pat