Hip replacement, done the modern way
Minimally invasive, muscle-sparing hip replacement — including the direct anterior approach — designed for less pain and a faster return to the activities you love.
Relief from hip pain, built around you
When hip arthritis or injury limits your daily life, hip replacement can be one of the most reliable and rewarding procedures in modern medicine. Dr. Harb specializes in muscle-sparing techniques that protect the surrounding tissue, reduce pain, and support a faster recovery.
The direct anterior approach allows Dr. Harb to access the joint from the front of the hip, working between the muscles instead of detaching them. Combined with intraoperative fluoroscopy and computer navigation, the goal is a hip that feels natural and lasts.
Dr. Harb cares for patients from across the greater Washington, D.C. region — including Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Potomac, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Olney, Silver Spring, Clarksburg, Frederick, McLean, Arlington, and the rest of Northern Virginia — with offices in Washington, D.C. and Germantown, MD.
You may be a candidate if…
- Persistent hip, groin, or buttock pain that limits walking
- Stiffness that interferes with daily activities or sleep
- Pain that has not responded to medication, injections, or therapy
- X-rays showing advanced arthritis or joint damage
Surgical options for the hip
Direct Anterior Total Hip Replacement
A minimally invasive, muscle-sparing approach that works between muscles rather than cutting them — often allowing a faster, more comfortable recovery.
Outpatient Hip Replacement
Carefully selected patients can return home the same day, recovering in the comfort of their own surroundings with a structured support plan.
Revision Hip Replacement
Specialized care for worn, loose, or previously failed hip implants, restoring stability and function.
Computer-Assisted Hip Replacement
Advanced navigation technology helps position the implant with precision, tailored to your individual anatomy.
Common reasons for hip replacement
Hip osteoarthritis
Gradual cartilage wear causing stiffness and groin or buttock pain.
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
Abnormal contact between the ball and socket that damages cartilage.
Hip dysplasia
A shallow socket that overloads the joint over time.
Labral tears
Injury to the cartilage rim that cushions the hip socket.
Avascular necrosis
Loss of blood supply to the femoral head leading to bone collapse.
Inflammatory arthritis
Rheumatoid and related conditions affecting the hip joint.
What to expect after surgery
Every recovery is personal, but our rapid-recovery program is designed to get you moving safely and confidently.
The first days
Walking with assistance begins the day of surgery, guided by clear, written instructions for activity and wound care.
The first weeks
Physical therapy rebuilds strength and motion while you gradually return to everyday tasks and light activity.
Getting back to life
Most patients return to low-impact activities they enjoy, with follow-up visits to keep healing on track.
Take Dr. Harb's hip replacement handbook home
The same step-by-step guide Dr. Harb gives his patients — a complete companion for preparing for surgery, navigating recovery, and getting back to an active life. Yours to download, read, and bring to your consultation.
Download the Hip Replacement GuideWhat's inside
- Step-by-step preparation before surgery
- What to expect the day of surgery
- Week-by-week recovery milestones
- Pain management and medications
- Returning to activities you love
Hip replacement FAQs
Have a question that isn't answered here? Dr. Harb will walk through everything during your consultation.
What is the direct anterior hip replacement approach?
It is a minimally invasive technique that reaches the hip joint from the front of the leg, working between muscles rather than cutting through them. Because the muscles are preserved, many patients experience less pain and a quicker, more stable recovery.
Can hip replacement really be done as an outpatient procedure?
For many healthy, motivated patients, yes. With modern anesthesia, muscle-sparing technique, and a structured recovery plan, carefully selected patients can return home the same day. Dr. Harb will help determine whether this is right for you.
How soon will I be able to walk?
Most patients are encouraged to stand and walk with assistance the same day as surgery. Walking is an important part of the rapid-recovery protocol and helps healing.
How long does a hip replacement last?
Modern implants are highly durable — with today’s materials, more than 90% of hip replacements remain intact at 30 years. Your individual longevity depends on activity level, anatomy, and implant choice — all of which Dr. Harb tailors to you.
When can I return to driving and work?
Many patients resume desk work within one to two weeks and driving once they are off narcotic pain medication and have regained control of the leg. Dr. Harb will give you specific guidance based on your progress.
Talk with Dr. Harb about your hip
Find out whether hip replacement is right for you and what a personalized recovery plan could look like.