What makes Dr. Shahan Yacoubian’s approach different?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian combines over two decades of experience with a highly personalized approach to care. Rather than focusing only on the procedure, Dr. Shahan Yacoubian focuses on helping each patient return to a more active and comfortable life.
With every patient, Dr. Shahan Yacoubian develops a tailored treatment plan and provides clear guidance throughout the process. Many patients—and even other physicians—trust Dr. Shahan Yacoubian for complex and revision cases. Read the patient testimonials now.
How do I know if I need hip or knee replacement?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian evaluates whether joint replacement is appropriate based on your symptoms, imaging, and daily limitations.
If pain is consistently affecting your ability to walk, sleep, or perform normal activities—and has not improved with conservative care—Dr. Shahan Yacoubian may recommend surgery as a solution.
Are there non-surgical options before considering surgery?
Yes. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian always considers non-surgical treatments first when appropriate.
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian may recommend physical therapy, activity modifications, or medications before discussing surgery. Joint replacement is only considered when these options no longer provide sufficient relief.
When is the right time to have joint replacement surgery?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian works closely with each patient to determine the right timing.
In general, Dr. Shahan Yacoubian recommends surgery when pain begins to significantly impact quality of life and daily function, rather than waiting until the condition becomes too severe.
Does Dr. Shahan Yacoubian perform complex or revision surgeries?
Yes. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian performs both primary joint replacement procedures and revision surgeries to replace worn or failed implants.
Because of his experience, Dr. Shahan Yacoubian is often trusted with more complex cases, including those referred by other orthopaedic surgeons from all around Southern California. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian has performed over 1,000 revision joint replacement surgeries on the hip and knee.
How many joint replacement surgeries has Dr. Shahan Yacoubian performed?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian has performed over 10,000 surgeries since starting his practice.
This level of experience allows Dr. Shahan Yacoubian to deliver consistent, precise outcomes, and makes Dr. Shahan Yacoubian a trusted choice when selecting a joint replacement surgeon.
Where does Dr. Shahan Yacoubian perform surgery?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian performs procedures in accredited surgical facilities with highly experienced nursing and anesthesia teams.
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian operates at outpatient surgical centers in Glendale as well at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, depending on each patient’s needs.
How does Dr. Shahan Yacoubian use advanced technology to improve outcomes?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian incorporates advanced surgical technology to enhance precision during joint replacement procedures. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian was amongst the first in the country to begin using Augmented Reality Navigation (the newest applied technology) in joint replacement surgery. If you are interested in learning more about this technology, please discuss this option with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian during your consultation.
By improving implant positioning and alignment, Dr. Shahan Yacoubian aims to optimize function, longevity, and overall recovery for each patient.
Will I be able to walk the same day after surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Yes.
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian encourages early movement, and many patients are able to stand and begin walking with assistance once anesthesia has worn off.
What can I expect during recovery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian advises patients to expect a recovery period of approximately 3 to 6 months to regain full function.
Your individual recovery timeline will be discussed in detail during your consultation, as it can vary based on your procedure, overall health, and personal goals.
How does Dr. Shahan Yacoubian manage pain after surgery?
Patients receive a personalized care plan designed to maximize comfort while minimizing unnecessary risk, supporting a smoother and more efficient recovery. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian uses a comprehensive, proactive approach to pain management that often begins before surgery. This includes advanced anesthesia techniques such as regional nerve blocks to reduce pain, precise surgical methods to limit tissue trauma, targeted postoperative medications, and guided rehabilitation.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Yes. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian strongly recommends physical therapy as a key part of recovery. While not every patient strictly requires it, he has consistently found that those who follow a structured, guided therapy program recover more efficiently, regain strength faster, and achieve more reliable outcomes. This approach is grounded in his experience caring for thousands of patients.
His care team typically coordinates therapy to begin at home in the early phase of recovery, followed by a transition to outpatient sessions focused on restoring mobility, strength, and overall function.
How long do implants last with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian’s procedures?
Implant longevity varies depending on individual factors such as age, activity level, and overall health.
With modern techniques and modern implants used by Dr. Shahan Yacoubian, he anticipates that implants will last for 20 to 30 years.
What are the risks of surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian is committed to minimizing risk at every stage of care. Many risks can be reduced through thoughtful preparation, including optimizing nutrition, stopping smoking, managing weight, maintaining skin health, and controlling conditions such as diabetes.
Patients are thoroughly prepared before surgery and supported with detailed, step-by-step guidance afterward to ensure a safe recovery. His team also provides clear instruction on reducing potential complications such as infection, blood clots, fractures, and dislocation—helping patients recover with confidence and peace of mind.
Will I need help at home after surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Yes. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian recommends arranging help at home, especially during the first week after surgery.
This support helps ensure safety and allows you to focus fully on recovery.
When can I drive after surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian advises that patients should not drive while taking narcotic pain medications.
Most patients can resume driving within approximately 2 to 6 weeks, depending on their recovery progress, which leg was operated on (right vs. left), and overall comfort and control.
When can I travel after surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian generally recommends avoiding long-distance travel for approximately 3 months after surgery.
This helps reduce the risk of complications and supports a safer recovery.
Will I need medical clearance before surgery?
Yes. Dr. Shahan Yacoubian requires a pre-operative medical evaluation to ensure you are in optimal condition for surgery and recovery. This evaluation is typically completed by your primary care physician.
If you are under the care of a cardiologist, a pre-operative consultation with your cardiologist is also required to ensure your heart health is appropriately managed prior to surgery.
What happens after surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian carefully plans each patient’s post-operative care.
Most patients return home shortly after surgery, but Dr. Shahan Yacoubian will discuss alternative arrangements if additional care is needed.
What should I do before deciding on surgery with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian?
Dr. Shahan Yacoubian encourages patients to take the time to fully understand their options.
Meeting with Dr. Shahan Yacoubian allows you to ask questions, review your condition, and decide on the best path forward with confidence.