Questions
FAQ
Before surgery
How long does the surgery take?
Usually about 40 to 60 minutes. Plan to spend about half a day at the hospital. It is typically outpatient surgery, but an overnight stay is available in certain situations.
Will I be asleep?
Yes. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. You will meet the anesthesia team at PreAdmit and again on the day of surgery.
Can I eat or drink before surgery?
Nothing to eat or drink after midnight. PreAdmit will tell you which medications to stop, especially GLP-1 medications and blood thinners.
When do I get crutches and a brace?
Usually on the day of surgery. If insurance does not cover the brace, we will discuss alternatives with you.
After surgery
When can I shower?
48 hours after surgery. Cover the incisions with waterproof bandaids or plastic and change the bandaids daily. Leave the steri-strips on until they fall off, unless dressing supplies were sent to you; in that case remove them on day 4. No baths or soaking.
What if I receive dressings in the mail?
Some patients receive dressing supplies to help healing. Remove the steri-strips and apply the new dressings on day 4 after surgery, following the instructions included.
How long will I need crutches?
Usually 3 weeks for the standard procedure, 4 weeks after a Glute Tendon Repair, and 6 weeks after a Labral Revision or Reconstruction. Your therapist will help you wean off them.
How long will I wear the brace?
When walking and sitting for 4 weeks (6 weeks after a Labral Revision or Reconstruction or a Glute Tendon Repair). It can come off for showering, exercises and sleep.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes. Formal physical therapy usually begins 3 to 5 days after surgery and typically lasts 2 to 4 months, extending to 6 months as needed. Your home exercise program continues through 1 year.
When can I go back to work or school?
Typically 4 to 7 days after surgery for desk work or school, if pain allows. Heavy lifting usually takes 3 to 6 months.
When can I drive?
Not while taking narcotic pain medication. You need to be able to lift your leg (around 3 weeks) and control it fully. It is best to wait until your first post-op visit.
When can I return to sports?
Running begins at 3 months for the standard procedure and 4 months after a Labral Revision or Reconstruction or a Glute Tendon Repair. Return to sport usually takes 6 to 9 months, and improvement can continue for up to 12 months.
When is my first visit after surgery?
Usually 10 to 14 days after surgery, with our Physician Assistant. No stitches need removing because the sutures are buried under the skin.