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If you or your child is preparing for or recovering from a combined labral repair and periacetabular osteotomy (PAO), it’s natural to have questions about what recovery will look like—especially when it comes to swelling. Understanding this part of the healing process can help set realistic expectations and ease concerns.
If you want to understand how both procedures are performed together, read our guide on the combined hip arthroscopy and PAO surgery.
Why Does Swelling Occur After Hip Preservation Surgery?
Swelling is your body’s natural response to surgery. After a procedure as complex as a labral repair and PAO, where the structure of the hip joint is reshaped and repaired, your body sends extra fluids and inflammatory cells to the area to begin healing. This leads to visible swelling but is a normal, expected part of recovery.
Learn more about PAO surgery here.
Where Does Swelling Occur After PAO and Labral Repair?
Post-operative swelling typically appears in several areas:
Around the hip and groin where incisions are made
Down the thigh and knee due to gravity and fluid movement
Occasionally in the foot or ankle if fluid continues to pool
Swelling is usually most pronounced in the first 2–3 weeks and gradually decreases with time, proper movement, and care.
Tips for Managing Swelling After Combined Labral Repair and PAO Surgery
Managing swelling isn’t about stopping it—it’s about reducing discomfort and supporting your recovery. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Elevation
Raise your leg with pillows whenever resting, especially in the first 1–2 weeks. Keeping the leg elevated above heart level can reduce fluid accumulation.
2. Icing
Use ice packs or a continuous cold therapy unit around the hip area. Apply for 20 minutes several times a day to decrease inflammation.
How to manage pain after hip surgery.
3. Compression
Your surgeon may recommend compression wraps or stockings to help reduce leg and foot swelling and to prevent blood clots.
4. Movement and Physical Therapy
Following your physical therapy program will help improve blood flow and mobility, which naturally reduces swelling. Avoid overexertion, and let your body guide your pace.
Explore our recommended post-op exercises.
5. Hydration and Diet
Drink plenty of water and incorporate anti-inflammatory foods into your diet—like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich fish.
6. Rest and Patience
Even with all the above, swelling will take time to subside. Getting proper rest and following medical guidance is essential.
When Should You Call Your Surgeon?
While swelling is expected, certain symptoms could indicate a complication:
Sudden, severe swelling that doesn't improve with elevation or ice
Redness, warmth, or tenderness in the leg or incision area
Chest pain or shortness of breath (possible sign of blood clot)
Pain in the calf when pointing the foot upward
These could indicate issues like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or infection and should be evaluated right away.
Your Recovery Journey
Recovery after combined labral repair and PAO surgery requires patience, especially when managing swelling in the hip and leg. With patience, a good recovery plan, and open communication with your care team, you'll be on the right path toward healing.
