Andrew Dean | Hip Replacement

Andrew Dean

Hip Surgery

“Nothing was too much trouble”

Andrew Dean had been living with hip pain for a long time. As a butcher, long hours on his feet were part of everyday life, but by August 2024, it became too much to bear.

After seeing his GP, he was referred to the musculoskeletal (MSK) team and sent for an X-ray. The results confirmed what he had begun to suspect: degenerative arthritis in both hips, worse on the left side. It was advised that a hip replacement was needed.

“I wanted to wait for surgery until I had retired,” Andrew explained. “But it got too painful. It wasn’t just an ache anymore, and I could no longer wait. I wanted to be free of pain and play golf again.”

He was seen by Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Andrew Skyrme at The Horder Centre’s clinic in Seaford, who reiterated that a hip replacement was necessary to reduce the pain. By that point, the decision felt clear for Andrew.

Understanding Hip Replacement Surgery: From First Symptoms to Long-Term Recovery

Hip replacement surgery can be life-changing for people living with persistent hip pain and limited mobility.

Understanding the journey, from the first symptoms and diagnosis to surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term recovery, helps patients feel more confident, informed, and prepared for each stage of the process.

“I wasn’t anxious,” said Andrew. “Mr Skyrme told me it was a straightforward operation for a man of my age.

“A lot of people in my shop have been treated by Mr Skyrme. I’ve seen how quickly they recovered. That’s what made me want to get it done.

“From the start, I felt confident with the care. Mr Skyrme is a great surgeon. He’s very matter-of-fact, put me at ease, and answered all my questions. It was all very straightforward. On the morning of surgery, he popped in beforehand and said I was third on the list.

“I went into surgery around midday, and by 1:30pm, I was in recovery. By 7pm that evening, the physios had me up and walking. I didn’t even need sticks.

“The Horder Centre was brilliant. From reception to the nurses, everyone was really nice. Nothing was too much trouble.”

Andrew Dean

“There were no complications, and I was discharged the following day with painkillers, though I found I didn’t need them. I was out on Thursday, and by Saturday, I was walking along Eastbourne seafront. I just followed all the exercises they gave me.

“I was back to work in three weeks and one day.

“I’ve had two follow-up calls with Mr Skyrme, and he’s happy with everything. When I noticed some swelling in my calf, he told me it was normal, which put my mind at rest.

“Golf has been off the table for 18 months, but not for much longer. I’m really looking forward to getting back out there at the recommended time."

Mr Andrew Skyrme

Mr Skyrme serves as the Lead Consultant Surgeon at The Horder Centre and is the Chairman of the Orthopaedic Medical Advisory Committee at the hospital. He joined The Horder Centre in 2004 and is currently the longest-serving hip surgeon at the institution.

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The Horder Centre is an award-winning Centre of Excellence that offers patients a unique therapeutic environment. Specifically designed for orthopaedic surgery, our facilities include a physiotherapy inpatient gym and courtyard gardens designed by clinical experts to enhance recovery. Finance options available.