This article deals with a new approach for calculation of self-consistent pressure distribution and surface deflection for a lubricated journal bearing. This approach is based on the numerical solution of the 2-D Reynolds’ equation for the lubrication layer, numerical calculation of the surface deformations by the 3-D ANSYS package and Fourier series expansion for the compliance matrix. A simple analytical approximation is found for the obtained compliance matrix, which can be used for heavy loaded journal bearings. The compliance matrix is implemented into the iterative procedure for calculation of self-consistent pressure distribution and surface deflection in the contact zone. Results of calculations are presented for the particular journal bearing.