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Last updated: 21 Oct, 2026
Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement combines a CT-based 3D model of your joint with robotic-arm technology to assist your surgeon with implant planning and positioning. At SoCal Orthopedics in Torrance, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. John Andrawis uses the Mako system to plan each procedure around your individual anatomy. The robotic arm assists the surgeon — it does not replace them. Dr. Andrawis remains in control of every step of your surgery.
What Is Mako Robotic-Assisted Surgery?
Mako is a robotic-arm-assisted technology used for total knee, partial knee, and total hip replacement. Before surgery, a CT scan is used to build a detailed 3D model of your joint. Dr. Andrawis uses that model to create a surgical plan tailored to your individual anatomy — including the size, placement, and alignment of your implant.
During the procedure, the Mako system provides information that helps the surgeon follow the patient-specific surgical plan and guide implant positioning within defined boundaries. During the procedure, the Mako system provides information that helps the surgeon follow the patient-specific surgical plan and guide implant positioning within defined boundaries.
Mako is used at SoCal Orthopedics for:
How Mako Differs From Traditional Joint Replacement
Conventional and Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement are both performed and controlled by the orthopedic surgeon. The primary difference is that Mako incorporates a CT-based 3D model and robotic-arm guidance into surgical planning and implant positioning.
| Feature | Traditional Joint Replacement | Mako Robotic-Assisted |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical planning | Uses clinical evaluation and standard imaging to develop the surgical plan | Incorporates a CT-generated 3D model into surgical planning |
| Implant positioning | Surgeon uses conventional instruments and surgical technique | Surgeon uses a patient-specific plan with robotic-arm assistance |
| Intraoperative guidance | Based on conventional surgical instruments and surgeon assessment | Robotic system provides guidance within the surgeon-defined plan |
| Surgeon control | Surgeon performs and controls the procedure | Surgeon performs and controls the procedure with robotic assistance |
It is important to understand what Mako is not: the robotic arm does not perform the surgery on its own and it does not make decisions. Dr. Andrawis defines the surgical plan, controls the robotic arm throughout, and adjusts as needed during the procedure. Robotic assistance is a tool that supports the surgeon’s experience and judgment.
Am I a Candidate for Mako Robotic Surgery?
Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement may be considered for patients who are candidates for total or partial knee replacement or total hip replacement. Whether joint replacement is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, severity of joint damage, symptoms, overall health, previous treatment, and individual goals. You may be a candidate if you experience:
- Persistent hip or knee pain that limits daily activities
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the joint
- Joint symptoms that continue to interfere with daily function despite appropriate non-surgical care
- Osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint conditions confirmed on imaging
Candidacy depends on your diagnosis, joint condition, overall health, and treatment goals. The best way to find out whether Mako is right for you is an evaluation with Dr. Andrawis, who will review your history and imaging and discuss all appropriate options — surgical and non-surgical.
Recovery After Mako Joint Replacement
Recovery varies by patient and depends on factors such as the joint treated, the type of procedure, overall health, mobility before surgery, and individual healing. Rehabilitation is an important part of recovery and is tailored to the patient’s procedure and progress. In general, patients can expect:
- Early mobility. Many patients begin walking with assistance soon after surgery, often the same day, guided by your care team.
- Physical therapy. A structured rehabilitation program helps you rebuild strength, motion, and stability in the joint.
- A personalized timeline. Dr. Andrawis and your care team will set recovery milestones based on your procedure and progress.
- Follow-up care. Scheduled visits allow your surgeon to monitor healing and adjust your plan as you recover.
For appropriately selected patients, same-day discharge may be an option after joint replacement. The care team will determine whether this is appropriate based on the procedure, health history, recovery after surgery, and other clinical factors.
Why Choose Dr. Andrawis for Mako Joint Replacement in Torrance
Dr. John Andrawis is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee replacement. He serves as Chair of Orthopedic Surgery at Torrance Memorial Medical Center and Medical Director of Adult Reconstruction at the Lundquist Orthopedic Institute. He completed his orthopedic residency at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and an advanced fellowship in hip and knee replacement and value-based care at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School.
Dr. Andrawis has been recognized among the top 1% of partial knee replacement surgeons in California and has received multiple Healthgrades awards for joint replacement. He performs Mako robotic-assisted procedures for hip and knee replacement at SoCal Orthopedics in Torrance.
Schedule a Mako Consultation in Torrance
If hip or knee symptoms are affecting your mobility or daily activities, an orthopedic evaluation can help determine whether joint replacement is appropriate and whether Mako robotic assistance may be an option for your procedure. To request an evaluation, call our Torrance office or send us a message through our contact page. Visit our contact page to request an appointment.
Torrance offices:
- 23560 Crenshaw Boulevard, Suite 102, Torrance, CA 90505
- 23550 Hawthorne Boulevard, Suite 120, Torrance, CA 90505
Mako Robotic Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a robot perform my joint replacement?
No. The Mako robotic arm assists your surgeon, but it does not operate on its own or make decisions. Dr. Andrawis plans your procedure, controls the robotic arm throughout surgery, and remains responsible for every step.
Is Mako used for knee and hip replacement?
Yes. At SoCal Orthopedics, Dr. Andrawis uses the Mako system for total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and total hip replacement.
How is Mako different from traditional joint replacement?
Mako incorporates a CT-based 3D model and robotic-arm assistance into surgical planning and implant positioning. Conventional joint replacement uses standard imaging and surgical instruments without robotic-arm assistance. In either approach, the orthopedic surgeon plans and performs the procedure.
How long does recovery take after Mako surgery?
Recovery varies according to the procedure, the patient’s overall health, mobility before surgery, and individual healing. Early mobility and physical therapy are commonly part of recovery after joint replacement, with the timeline adjusted to the patient’s progress.
How do I find out if I am a candidate for Mako robotic surgery?
The best way to know is an evaluation with Dr. Andrawis. Call our Torrance office at (310) 784-2355 or use our contact page to request an appointment.