Frequently Asked Questions

Signs include persistent joint pain that limits daily activities, pain at rest or at night, stiffness that makes bending or walking difficult, and failure of non-surgical treatments (physical therapy, injections, anti-inflammatories). A consultation with X-rays is needed to confirm diagnosis and discuss options.

There is no ideal age — the decision is based on symptoms, imaging findings, activity goals, and health status. Modern implants last 20+ years, making joint replacement appropriate for active patients in their 40s–50s as well as older patients. Dr. Denyer evaluates each patient individually.

BMI is one factor in surgical planning, but it does not automatically disqualify you. Higher BMI is associated with higher complication rates, so optimization before surgery (weight loss, health management) can improve outcomes. This is discussed at consultation.

Standard non-surgical options include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), cortisone injections, hyaluronic acid (gel) injections, activity modification, and weight management. Surgery is typically considered after these have been tried and failed to provide adequate relief.

Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental) replaces only the damaged compartment, preserving healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments. Total knee replacement resurfaces all three compartments. Partial is faster recovery and more natural-feeling, but only appropriate for select patients with isolated compartment disease.

Robotic systems use pre-operative imaging and intraoperative sensor feedback to guide implant positioning with greater precision. The surgeon remains fully in control — the robot assists with accuracy. This can improve alignment, reduce outliers, and potentially extend implant longevity. Not every case requires robotic assistance; the decision is individualized.

The anterior (front) approach to hip replacement works between natural muscle planes rather than cutting through them. This muscle-sparing technique is associated with faster recovery, earlier return to walking, and lower dislocation risk for appropriate patients. Dr. Denyer also offers the bikini incision variant for improved cosmetic outcomes.

Most joint replacements take 60–90 minutes. Total time at the surgery center including preparation, anesthesia, and recovery is typically 4–6 hours. Many patients go home the same day.

Most patients receive either general anesthesia (fully asleep) or spinal/regional anesthesia (numb from the waist down, sedated). The anesthesia choice is made collaboratively with the anesthesiology team based on your health, preferences, and the procedure.

Yes — same-day discharge is appropriate for many healthy patients with modern outpatient joint replacement protocols. You need adequate pain control, ability to walk safely, and appropriate home support. Not every patient is a candidate for same-day discharge; this is assessed pre-operatively and on the day of surgery.

Most patients walk with a walker or cane within hours of surgery. Many are off a cane within 2–6 weeks depending on the procedure and their health. Full, unrestricted walking typically happens within 6–12 weeks.

For most healthy patients with adequate home support, direct home discharge is preferred and safe. Inpatient rehabilitation is occasionally needed for patients with complex medical needs or inadequate home support. The goal is to recover at home whenever possible.

After right-leg surgery, most patients wait 4–6 weeks. Left-leg surgery allows earlier return (often 2–3 weeks for automatic transmission vehicles). Clearance is given at follow-up once pain and reaction time are acceptable.

With modern implants and muscle-sparing approaches, long-term restrictions are minimal after full healing. Most patients return to golf, swimming, hiking, cycling, and everyday activities. High-impact sports (running, basketball) are generally discouraged to protect implant longevity, though this is discussed individually.

Modern joint replacement implants last 20–25+ years in most patients. Factors affecting longevity include activity level, weight, bone quality, implant design, and surgical technique. Robotic-assisted positioning and modern bearing materials have improved durability significantly.

Dr. Denyer completed undergraduate and master's training at the University of Miami, earned his MD from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, completed orthopedic surgery residency at Loyola University Medical Center (Maywood, IL), and fellowship in adult reconstruction (hip and knee replacement) at Harvard Medical School / Massachusetts General Hospital — one of the most respected programs in the world for joint replacement surgery.

Dr. Denyer sees patients in clinic at four UHealth (University of Miami Health System) locations: UHealth HSS SoLé Mia in North Miami (2111 SoLé Mia Way), UHealth Tower in Downtown Miami (1400 NW 12th Ave), UHealth Boca Raton (1489 W Palmetto Park Rd Ste 400), and UHealth Kendall (8932 SW 97th Ave, Miami). Surgery is performed at UHealth Tower in Downtown Miami and UHealth HSS SoLé Mia in North Miami.

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) is ranked #1 in the world for orthopedics by Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report. Dr. Denyer practices at UHealth HSS SoLé Mia — a collaboration between the University of Miami Health System and HSS — bringing world-class HSS care pathways to South Florida.

Yes — Dr. Denyer is a native Spanish speaker. He is fully fluent and conducts consultations in Spanish for patients who prefer it. Our website is also available in Spanish.

Request an appointment through UHealth at umiamihealth.org. Bring your most recent X-rays or imaging if available. UHealth will review your information and contact you to confirm your appointment.