How long does a total knee or total hip replacement last?

I know that it depends on usage and that everyone is individual but do you know in general how long they are supposed to last? I had a total hip done in Feb and just had a TKN (knee) done 6 weeks ago. I'm doing VERY well for a knee replacement and I'm VERY happy about that. But I never really asked my doc(s) about how long they work till they wear out requiring revision surgery. I've HEARD from 10-20 yrs but is there something more exact out there? I'm female, 44, osteoarthritis, hepc, asthma, and bipolar if that helps. Anyone? Do you know? Any serious replys (or guesses!) are greatly appreciated!!!!!! Thanks a bunch in advance.

I *do* have osteoporosis and Prednisone is what CAUSED this bone death/deterioration (I took it for asthma for only 1 1/2 months!). I also take (for other reasons as well) 1200 calcium, 1200 magnesium, and 800 of vitamin D daily. So I guess I've got it covered. Author #3....you sure seem to know what you're talking about......did you have a joint replacement as well or did someone you know have one? Unfortunately in 15-20 years from now I will be 59- 64 or so and will have to go through revision surgery if I have a normal life span. This all sucks in a big way but I did it once........I can do it again. Thanks to all of you but sorry #1 and 2.....I'm picking #3 right now cuz I think that #3 knows "where it's at" the most. Thanks #1 and #2 too though. You were all helpful!!!!1

about 15-20 years unless you have osteoporosis are or taking medicines like prednisone which might weaken your bone structure where the appliance might come unglued - I'm talking about knees here but I'm guessing stats for the hip are similar.
If I were you I'd be taking a good calcium/magnesium supplement daily along with 800U of vitamin D. The vitamin D is what makes the calcium and magnesium work well so don't forget it.

http://www.hipsandknees.com/knee/kneesur... (read # 3)

Look at this: http://totaljoints.info/expect...
The younger you are the more likely that you'll outlive the replacement and require revision. According to his data, at age 44 there's a 63% chance of having a functional hip 25 years from now. Report It

My partner has had both knees replaced in the past 18 months. My experience with prednisone, osteoporosis and decreased bone density come from both personal experience and experience with close relatives.

btw- With your health conditions, you also need to be taking Fosamax or something similar. Report It

I have just had two friends that have had this done recently. One a 60 yr old man and the other is a female a little older than yourself. They both said that it should last 'a good 10 plus years'. I'm sure use and weight are factors. They are both doing really well, happy that they had the surgery and plan on having this last closer to the 15 yr mark.
Good luck to you!

They last an avergare of 20 years, could be longer sometimes.
Generally total hip is more successful then total knee replacement.
I have seen patient have to come back for revision (another replacement) of total knee few months after the surgery(surgery was not very sucessful).
generaly patients feel happy after the total hip & knee & pain goes away.