Joint replacement surgery used to mean several days in the hospital. Today, that’s no longer the case for many patients. Advances in surgical techniques, anesthesia, pain management, and rehabilitation now make same-day joint replacement surgery a safe and effective option for the right candidates.
So, can you really go home the same day after joint replacement surgery? For many patients in Tampa, the answer is yes.
The Convenience of Outpatient Joint Replacement in Tampa Bay
Outpatient joint replacement—also called same-day or ambulatory joint replacement—allows patients to return home just hours after surgery rather than staying overnight in the hospital. This approach is most commonly used for hip and knee replacements, though eligibility depends on several factors.
At Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay, our orthopedic surgeons carefully evaluate each patient to determine whether outpatient joint replacement is appropriate and safe.
| The Benefits of At-Home Joint Replacement Post-Op Recovery
Comfort in familiar surroundings Reduced risk of hospital-acquired infections Faster return to normal life Lower medical bills Learn more > Considering A Joint Replacement In 2026 Read How Our Tampa Patients Have Benefited |
Who Is a Good Candidate for Same-Day Discharge?
Not everyone is a candidate for going home the same day, but many patients qualify. You may be a good fit if you:
- Are generally healthy with well-controlled medical conditions
- Have a strong support system at home
- Can safely walk with assistance shortly after surgery
- Are motivated to participate in physical therapy
- Do not have significant heart, lung, or balance issues
Age alone is not the deciding factor. Many active adults—including those in their 60s and 70s—successfully recover at home the same day.
Learn more > Who Is A Candidate For Surgery & What Are The Risks Associated With Joint Replacement?
What Makes Same-Day Joint Replacement Possible?
Several modern advancements have made outpatient joint replacement increasingly common:
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques that reduce tissue damage
- Enhanced anesthesia protocols that minimize nausea and grogginess
- Multimodal pain management, reducing the need for heavy narcotics
- Early mobilization, often getting patients up and walking within hours
These improvements help patients feel more comfortable, alert, and stable shortly after surgery.
| OMG adopts the latest technology and current techniques to guarantee a modern experience with orthopaedic surgery. |
What Is Recovery Like at Home?
Patients discharged the same day receive detailed instructions before leaving the surgical center. Most Tampa patients are surprised by how manageable recovery is at home when expectations are set appropriately.
You can expect:
- Physical therapy to begin quickly
- Pain and swelling that gradually improve over the first few weeks
- Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic team
- A structured recovery plan designed to keep you safe and progressing
Many patients report that recovering at home is more comfortable than staying overnight in a hospital.
| Regular physical therapy sessions in the weeks following joint replacement surgery can result in faster recovery. |
Is Same-Day Joint Replacement Safe?
Yes—for properly selected patients, outpatient joint replacement has been shown to be just as safe as inpatient surgery, with similar or even lower complication rates. In addition, patients often experience higher satisfaction and a faster return to normal routines.
Safety always comes first. If staying overnight is the better option for you, your surgeon will recommend it.
Read more > Postoperative Expectations, Restrictions, Wound Care & Recovery Timeframes
Enjoy the Convenience of Outpatient Surgery Near You. Schedule a Consultation For Same-Day Joint Replacement Surgery at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay
People in Tampa choose Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay for same-day joint replacement surgery because we offer custom treatment plans, thorough post-op care, and our qualified and experienced team of orthopaedic surgeons. Call (813) 684-BONE (2663) today to schedule your consultation appointment or visit our joint replacement portal online to learn more.
