I know little of Australia climatology or holiday cycles but if I were in South Africa for such a procedure, I'd probably try and have it done in the first week in December and then have as recuperation time the whole slack period over Christmas and New Year. The recovery is not uncomfortable, unlike tummy ticks where you have to wear a body stocking in the heat.
Can't see that a hip resurface would involve much less time out of the loop and if you go for a hip resurface when you should be having a replacement then I think the future could hold problems.
Ship in a couple of fresh young instructors to work for you on experience for board and lodging basis. Buy lots of beer and sit on a high throne chair and dictate such that the kids do it your way?