Overview

Considering Revision Surgery?
Get Another Set of Eyes.

If you've been told you need revision hip or knee replacement — or a prior joint replacement simply isn't feeling right — Dr. Pallitto offers second-opinion consultations for patients whose original surgery was performed by another surgeon, in another practice, or in another state. A second opinion isn't a commitment to surgery; it's a chance to confirm the diagnosis, understand your options, and decide your next step with confidence.

Haven't had a joint replacement yet? See Hip Replacement Second Opinion or Knee Replacement Second Opinion.

Request a Second Opinion
  • Ideal ForPatients told they need revision surgery, or with ongoing pain, stiffness, or instability after a prior replacement
  • IncludesRecords review, new imaging as needed, and an in-person evaluation
  • OutcomeA clear recommendation — surgical, nonsurgical, or continued monitoring

When to Seek a Second Opinion

Reasons Patients Come In for a Second Look

  • You were told revision surgery is your only option and want that confirmed
  • Pain, swelling, or stiffness that hasn't resolved months after your original surgery
  • A feeling of instability, clicking, or the joint "giving way"
  • Concern about a specific implant, a recall, or how your components are wearing
  • You'd simply like a fellowship-trained specialist's independent read on your imaging

What a Second Opinion Can Confirm — or Change

  • Whether revision surgery is truly indicated right now, or can reasonably wait
  • Whether your symptoms have a nonsurgical explanation or treatment
  • What the surgical approach and recovery would actually look like for your case
  • A local surgeon to take over your ongoing care if you've relocated to the Lowcountry

What to Expect

Your Second-Opinion Visit

1

Records Review

Dr. Pallitto reviews your original operative report, implant details, and prior imaging, if available, before or during your visit.

2

New X-Rays, If Needed

Current imaging is often obtained on-site to see exactly how the joint and implant look today.

3

Physical Exam & Discussion

Dr. Pallitto examines the joint, discusses your symptoms and goals, and walks through what the imaging and exam show.

4

A Clear Recommendation

You'll leave with a straightforward recommendation and an understanding of your options, whether that's surgery, nonsurgical management, or continued monitoring.

What to Bring

If you have them, bring your original operative report, implant card or sticker, most recent X-rays (or where they were taken so our office can request them), and a current medication list. Don't have all of these? That's alright — bring what you have, and Dr. Pallitto can order new imaging at your visit.

What to Bring to the Hospital for Joint Replacement →

Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to get a second opinion?

Typically no referral is required to schedule a second-opinion consultation. If your specific insurance plan requires one, our office can help you understand the process.

What records should I bring to a second-opinion visit?

The most useful records are your original operative report, any implant card or sticker you were given, and your most recent X-rays. Having these ahead of your visit lets Dr. Pallitto do a more thorough initial review, though he can also order new imaging if needed.

What if my original surgery wasn't performed in South Carolina?

That's common in the Lowcountry, where many patients relocate or spend part of the year. Dr. Pallitto regularly evaluates prior joint replacements performed by other surgeons, in other states, and can take over your ongoing care.

What if I don't actually need revision surgery?

A second opinion isn't a commitment to surgery. If your symptoms can be managed nonsurgically or your existing replacement simply needs monitoring, Dr. Pallitto will say so directly.

Is a second opinion covered by insurance?

Second-opinion consultations are commonly covered by insurance plans. Our office can help you verify your specific benefits before your visit.

Where We Practice

Hilton Head, Bluffton & Beaufort

Hilton Head Island

Phone
(843) 681-2363
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Considering a Second Opinion?

Request a Consultation