A key goal in metal prosthetic devices is to minimize the generation of polymer wear particles of the mating surface in use. A major approach is to modify the metal component through a surface treatment or with the use of adherent coatings. Surface modification of orthopedic implants will be discussed using a variety of methods including Ion Implanatation and Ion Beam Assisted Deposition (IBAD). Effects of dose and implant specie on the mechanical properties of metal implant materials will be described. Recent coating activities with IBAD of Co-Cr-Mo (F799) alloy will also be described. Combinations of surface modification of the base metal and coatings provide for unique combinations of properties applicable to metal prosthetics. The coating composition and microstructure are tailored to realize low friction component surfaces with exceptional wear life.