Dr DiFelice performed a total hip replacement on my left hip 5/17. It is 5/29 and I am able to…read morewalk without a cane with very little pain, aside from my muscle healing.
I believe that initially, about 2 years ago, I did have to wait for my first appointment, but nothing out of the ordinary for a NYC doctor. They took an x-ray and the doctor was able to show me the thinning cartilage, and said I would need a total hip replacement in the near future. Not what anyone wants to hear. He is not warm and fuzzy, but I feel he did take time to answer my questions at every visit, and gave me practical advice on what to expect, he told me that if my quality of life was going downhill, that was when it was time for surgery.. I opted to wait on surgery, getting a steroid shot then, and again a year later. Did they help-- don't really know as my pain was intermittent at the time. Remember, you need to advocate for yourself, so come prepared with questions, and always get a second opinion. I went to NYU for my second opinion and with the diagnosis from Dr DiFelice I was able to research and ask about alternatives...like stem cell and PRP, the NYU doctor told me he tried them all, they aren't ready yet, but he echoed what Dr DiFelice said about life quality.
My experiences with his care team, Sabrina and Yashira have been pleasant and professional, always receiving a reply within 2 days-again to be expected in NYC, at the best hospital for orthopedic surgery. The X-ray techs, his nurses--all pleasant, friendly and professional. One nurse in particular--I want to say her name was Grace--held my hand and kept me calm for my first steroid shot.
My surgery date did get moved a week later, which I was not happy about as I had to change my sister's flight which did cost money-but what can you do. There are some policies in place at HSS, that seem like a money grab, but that's not on the Doctor. You have to have your pre-op screening with an HSS doctor--which charged my insurance upwards of $700-my PCP visit is only $300...so things like that add up quickly, in terms of your out-of-pocket costs.
Had my surgery Friday morning was home by 5 the same day. You are v loopy and feeling no pain that day, but you 100% need someone with you that first week. You don't realize how many things you will need help with-everything! My sister stayed 10 days and that was perfect. Do get yourself the raised toilet seat and I did rent the NICE compression and cooling machine for2 weeks. IMO it is worth the $370. I used it not only on my hip, but managed to wrap my lower leg as well when it started to swell. You will not be able to put socks on, or bend down. It will be hard to get comfortable--I ordered a 6" piece of foam from Walmart, which really helped with being able to sit on my sofa--father pillows were not cutting it. The good news is that around day 5 you turn a corner, the pain is less, you're not as stiff and you feel a lot better. At 12 days, walking without a cane, PT is going well. Just don't overdo it. I do PT and home exercises-while watching TV. I take a walk outside every day. You really need 3 months to get that replacement sealed in.
Overall I am v happy with my results, and the care I received from Dr DiFelice and his staff. He is an excellent surgeon, and I plan to use him for my right hip as well. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
