This May Be 10 of America’s Top Hip Surgeons
When it comes to hip replacement, revision arthroplasty, and innovative orthopedic care, the United States boasts some of the most respected hip surgeons in the world. Their expertise is reflected in pioneering research, patient testimonials, and recognition by academic and clinical institutions. Below, we highlight 10 top-tier hip surgeons, offering insight into their achievements, where they practice, and why they're widely regarded as the best in their field.
1. Dr. Thomas P. Sculco
Institution: Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), New York, NY
Specialty: Primary and revision hip and knee arthroplasty
Dr. Thomas Sculco has long been considered a cornerstone in the world of orthopedic joint replacement. As Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus at HSS, he’s renowned for his contributions to the development of minimally invasive hip replacement techniques and for training generations of top orthopedic surgeons.
His attention to detail in both preoperative planning and intraoperative technique has made him a patient favorite, particularly among those undergoing complex revision surgeries. His communication style—both clear and compassionate—has earned him accolades from patients and peers alike.
Sculco is also a prolific researcher and mentor, often lecturing globally on advancements in hip arthroplasty. He co-developed HSS’s hip replacement registry, which has been pivotal in improving long-term patient outcomes.
2. Dr. Javad Parvizi
Institution: Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Philadelphia, PA
Specialty: Hip arthroplasty, periprosthetic joint infections
Dr. Parvizi is not only a renowned surgeon but also a global authority on periprosthetic joint infection (PJI)—a severe complication in joint replacement surgery. He currently serves as the Director of Clinical Research at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute and is among the most frequently cited researchers in orthopedics.
His protocols for identifying and managing PJIs have transformed international guidelines and reduced complication rates significantly. As a surgical innovator, Dr. Parvizi employs the latest robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques for hip replacement, often treating the most complex and high-risk cases.
He is also the founder of the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) and has authored over 1,000 peer-reviewed publications.
3. Dr. William H. Harris
Institution: Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA (Retired)
Specialty: Hip implant innovation, biomechanics
Dr. William Harris is regarded as a true pioneer in hip replacement. He invented the Harris Hip Score, a widely used measure of hip function and pain, and was instrumental in the development of cementless (press-fit) hip prostheses, which are now the global standard.
Dr. Harris founded the Harris Orthopaedics Laboratory at MGH, which continues to drive forward biomaterials research and implant design. His work has not only led to longer-lasting implants but also set standards for hip biomechanics that are used worldwide.
Although he is now retired from active surgery, Dr. Harris’s legacy continues through the implants and techniques used by today’s surgeons, many of whom he mentored.
4. Dr. Michael J. Bronson
Institution: Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY
Specialty: Joint replacement surgery, minimally invasive techniques
Dr. Bronson is the Chairman of Orthopaedics at Mount Sinai West and Chief of Joint Replacement Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center. His contributions to minimally invasive hip surgery have made him a standout among patients seeking quicker recovery times and less post-operative discomfort.
He has developed hip systems designed to preserve muscle and reduce dislocation risks, resulting in better patient outcomes and fewer hospital readmissions.
Frequently listed in New York Magazine’s “Best Doctors” and Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors, Dr. Bronson has also participated in pioneering studies on patient-specific implants and surgical robotics in joint replacement.
5. Dr. Joseph D. Zuckerman
Institution: NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, New York, NY
Specialty: Hip and shoulder arthroplasty
Dr. Zuckerman serves as Surgeon-in-Chief at NYU Langone and is recognized internationally for his work in hip and shoulder replacement surgery. He has authored over 300 research papers and several textbooks on arthroplasty, and he has served as President of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).
Dr. Zuckerman is known for integrating biomechanics and evidence-based protocols into clinical care, enhancing the durability of hip replacements. He also leads numerous training programs that shape the next generation of orthopedic specialists.
His balance of research excellence and outstanding patient care has earned him enduring respect from both colleagues and patients.
6. Dr. Chitranjan S. Ranawat
Institution: Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), New York, NY
Specialty: Hip and knee replacement, implant design
Dr. Ranawat is a legendary figure in orthopedics, having co-designed the widely used “Ranawat Hip System”, one of the earliest modular hip implants. His name is synonymous with surgical precision, academic excellence, and compassion.
He is also the founder of the Ranawat Orthopaedic Research Foundation, which promotes global orthopedic education and innovation. His “Ranawat Award”, presented by the Knee Society, recognizes outstanding research in orthopedic surgery.
Dr. Ranawat’s meticulous approach and pioneering implant designs continue to influence surgeons worldwide, even as he transitions into advisory and mentoring roles.
7. Dr. John H. Healey
Institution: Hospital for Special Surgery & Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
Specialty: Musculoskeletal oncology, complex hip reconstruction
Dr. Healey specializes in reconstructive orthopedic surgery for patients with tumors, bone loss, or failed implants, making him a go-to expert for the most challenging hip reconstructions. He holds a joint position at HSS and MSKCC, two of the world’s top institutions in orthopedics and oncology, respectively.
He has developed specialized hip implants and surgical approaches for patients with compromised bone due to cancer or previous surgery. His innovations include custom prosthetic design and biologic reconstruction techniques.
With a calming demeanor and a reputation for tackling the impossible, Dr. Healey provides hope for patients with few options left.
8. Dr. Neal ElAttrache
Institution: Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute, Los Angeles, CA
Specialty: Sports injuries, advanced joint preservation
While Dr. ElAttrache is best known for treating elite athletes and celebrities, he’s also respected for his surgical acumen in complex joint preservation and repair. Though his primary fame comes from treating injuries to the shoulder and knee (e.g., Tommy John surgeries), his hip preservation techniques—especially in younger, active patients—are highly advanced.
He incorporates biologic therapies and arthroscopic procedures that help delay or eliminate the need for hip replacement in certain patients. His holistic approach combines physical therapy, innovative surgical options, and cutting-edge diagnostics.
ElAttrache’s clientele includes NFL, MLB, NBA, and Olympic athletes, and his operating room is often the last stop before retirement—or the start of a comeback.
9. Dr. Kenneth J. Kress
Institution: Northside Hospital Forsyth, Atlanta, GA
Specialty: Hip and knee replacement, fast-track recovery protocols
Dr. Kress has earned acclaim for his exceptionally low average length of hospital stay (LOS) for hip and knee replacement patients, a key metric in modern value-based care. He ranks among the top surgeons nationally for enhanced recovery protocols, allowing many patients to return home the same day.
He also emphasizes preoperative education, opioid-sparing techniques, and minimally invasive procedures, all of which contribute to faster healing and lower complication rates.
Dr. Kress’s outcomes and patient satisfaction scores are consistently among the highest in the Southeast United States.
10. Dr. Kevin Plancher
Institution: Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, New York, NY
Specialty: Arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery, sports medicine
Dr. Kevin Plancher is a leading voice in arthroscopic hip surgery, which is particularly valuable for younger, athletic patients experiencing labral tears or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). His surgical approach prioritizes joint preservation and return-to-sport outcomes.
Plancher’s clientele includes both elite athletes and weekend warriors. He is frequently invited to lecture at national orthopedic symposia and has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles on sports trauma and hip function.
He balances clinical practice with teaching, serving as a clinical instructor at prestigious universities while maintaining an active surgical schedule.
🏥 Centers of Excellence
Many of these surgeons practice at world-class hospitals consistently ranked among the best for orthopedic care:
- Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) – Ranked #1 in orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report for over a decade.
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute – Known for high-volume hip and knee replacements and rigorous clinical research.
- Mount Sinai Health System – Nationally recognized for joint surgery innovation.
- NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital – A leader in education, outcomes, and advanced surgical robotics.
- Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) – Home to groundbreaking orthopedic implant research.
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) – Offers unique expertise in reconstructive orthopedic oncology.
- Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute – Premier destination for sports medicine and advanced joint treatments.
📚 Verified Credentials and Honors
All of the surgeons listed above have been recognized through:
- Academic Directories (e.g., Harvard, NYU, Mount Sinai faculty profiles)
- Hospital Honors (e.g., U.S. News rankings, Becker’s Hospital Review)
- Board Certifications by ABOS and membership in organizations like AAOS and AAHKS
- Peer-reviewed Publications in leading orthopedic journals
- Media Spotlights for treating professional athletes, celebrities, and developing novel surgical techniques
