K.B.
I would consider an FHO like Christina N. mentioned (not TPO) if hip replacement is not an option. It stands for femoral head ostectomy and basically the head of the femur (the "ball" in the ball-and-socket hip joint) is removed, so there is no longer the pain of the bone rubbing on each other, and no more cartilage wear and tear from the abnormal hip joint formation. The muscles and scar tissue surround the hip socket and essentially create a "false joint" and the dogs have an almost normal level of function. It's a better surgery for small to medium sized dogs, but I've know a number of large breed dogs that have had it done and have done fairly well with it. A total hip replacement would be ideal, but expensive. You can try to find out if there is a veterinary school near you (i.e. Texas A & M, LSU) that might be less costly. However, I would also look at it from the standpoint that if your dog lives to be 13 or 14 years old, spending $6000 to $8000 now would probably end up costing less in the long run than medications and supplements every day for the rest of her life - and her quality of life may not even be as good.
Personally, I would make the appointment with the surgical specialist and see what they have to say. I refer folks to specialists all the time, and even if they are not sure how aggressive they want to go, there's nothing that says that just because you are having the consult, you are committed to a plan. If anything, they can tell you what your options are, and what you should expect depending on which way you decide to go. Good luck to you!