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FAI Surgery
(Surgical Treatment for Femoroacetabular Impingement)
Restoring Hip Function by Reshaping the Joint
Surgical treatment for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) addresses structural abnormalities in the hip that cause pain, limit motion, and damage cartilage over time. Whether performed arthroscopically or through open dislocation, FAI surgery is designed to reshape the hip joint, relieve impingement, and preserve the natural tissues of the hip.
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This procedure is often recommended for active individuals who have not found relief through physical therapy or injections—and who want to protect their joint for the long term.
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What Is FAI Surgery and Why Is It Needed?
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Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) occurs when abnormal contact between the hip’s ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) causes friction, joint damage, and restricted motion. This condition can lead to labral tears, cartilage degeneration, and early arthritis if left untreated.
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When physical therapy, activity modification, and injections no longer provide relief, surgery may be recommended to correct the underlying structural problem.
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The Purpose of FAI Surgery:
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Reshape the bone to eliminate impingement
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Repair or reconstruct the labrum to restore joint stability
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Preserve cartilage and prevent long-term joint deterioration
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Reduce pain and improve hip function
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Protect the joint from developing arthritis
FAI surgery is not just about pain relief—it’s about preserving your hip before irreversible damage occurs.
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Whether performed arthroscopically or through open surgical dislocation, the goal is to improve hip mechanics while maintaining the natural joint for as long as possible.
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What FAI Surgery Treats
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FAI surgery is designed to correct structural damage caused by impingement—such as labral tears, cartilage wear, and bone overgrowth. Here's a look at what the procedure addresses and how.
By addressing all aspects of impingement, FAI surgery preserves the joint and prevents further damage.
Arthroscopic vs. Open Surgical Approach
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Surgery for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) can be performed using either hip arthroscopy (minimally invasive) or open surgical dislocation (traditional open procedure). The best approach depends on the severity of joint damage, location of bone deformity, and individual patient anatomy.
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Hip Arthroscopy: Minimally Invasive Option
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What it is:
A camera-assisted procedure using 2–3 small incisions (¼ to ½ inch). Instruments are inserted through portals to reshape bone, repair the labrum, and treat cartilage damage. -
Ideal for:
Mild to moderate impingement, labral tears, athletes, and patients with minimal arthritis. -
Benefits:
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Less soft tissue disruption
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Outpatient surgery (go home same day)
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Shorter initial recovery
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Minimal scarring
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Limitations:
May not provide full access to certain parts of the hip in severe or complex deformities.
Open Surgical Dislocation: More Extensive Access
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What it is:
An open approach that temporarily dislocates the hip joint through a single 7–10 inch incision. It allows the surgeon to fully visualize and access all aspects of the joint. -
Ideal for:
Severe impingement, advanced bone reshaping, or revision surgeries where arthroscopy isn’t sufficient. -
Benefits:
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Complete visualization of the joint
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More comprehensive bone correction
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Allows access to areas difficult to reach arthroscopically
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Considerations:
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Involves a hospital stay (usually 2–3 nights)
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Larger incision and longer soft tissue healing
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Longer initial recovery time
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Both procedures aim for the same outcome: eliminate impingement, protect the labrum, and preserve the hip joint. The surgical approach is customized to your condition, goals, and anatomy.
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Recovery After FAI Surgery
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Recovery after femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) surgery varies depending on whether the procedure was done arthroscopically or through open surgical dislocation, and on how much work was done inside the joint (e.g., labral repair vs. debridement, bone reshaping, or cartilage treatment).
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Most patients can expect to use crutches for the first 2–6 weeks, with a full return to activity taking anywhere from 3 to 6 months depending on the procedure and their goals.
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Factors That Affect Recovery:
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Type of surgery (labral repair vs. debridement)
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Amount of bone reshaped
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Pre-surgery joint damage
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Physical therapy participation
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Overall health, fitness level, and activity goals
While hip arthroscopy generally allows for a quicker return to activity, open surgery provides deeper access and may take longer—but both aim for lasting joint preservation.
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Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation After FAI Surgery
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Whether you've had hip arthroscopy or open surgical dislocation, a successful recovery from femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) surgery depends on a carefully guided physical therapy plan. Rehab isn't just about healing—it's about restoring the way your hip moves, supports, and stabilizes your body.
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After surgery, you'll start with gentle exercises focused on:
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Controlling swelling and inflammation
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Maintaining early range of motion
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Preventing stiffness and muscle loss
A physical therapist will help guide you through your recovery—adapting each phase based on whether you had a labral repair, bone reshaping, or other corrective procedures.
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Goals of FAI Rehab:
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Improve hip strength, especially glutes and deep stabilizers
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Restore smooth, pain-free movement
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Normalize walking and balance
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Protect surgical repairs
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Safely return to activity, work, or sport
Most patients begin weight-bearing with crutches within the first 1–3 weeks, transitioning to unassisted walking by week 6–8 (depending on the procedure). Low-impact activities like cycling and swimming are often introduced in month 2 or 3, while return to running, agility, or sport-specific drills typically happens between months 4 and 6.
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Working with a hip-specific physical therapist ensures your rehab plan supports your long-term joint preservation—not just short-term recovery.
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Long-Term Results & Success Rates
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Surgery for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)—whether performed arthroscopically or through open dislocation—has excellent long-term success rates when done at the right time, on the right patient, for the right reasons.
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When structural impingement is addressed early—before significant cartilage loss or arthritis sets in—most patients experience lasting pain relief, improved mobility, and a return to high-level activity.
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Success Rates by the Numbers:
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80–90% of patients report long-term improvement in pain, motion, and activity levels
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Return-to-sport rates are as high as 90% in young athletes who follow a structured rehab program
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Most patients maintain their results for 5–10 years or longer, especially when surgery is performed before joint degeneration sets in
What Contributes to a Successful Outcome?
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Early intervention before cartilage is damaged
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A clear diagnosis of cam, pincer, or mixed FAI
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A personalized procedure (e.g., labral repair + bone reshaping)
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Dedicated physical therapy after surgery
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Close coordination between surgeon, therapist, and patient
FAI surgery is not just about improving pain—it's about preserving the hip joint for the long haul.
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🔗 Related Content:
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Learn more about labral tears and why they often occur with FAI
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See our full hip arthroscopy page for minimally invasive treatment details
🤔 Considering Surgery But Still Unsure?
Surgical treatment for FAI is a big decision—and it’s smart to feel cautious.
We offer Second Opinions for patients seeking clarity on diagnosis, timing, and whether surgery is the right next step.
Get expert insight so you can move forward with confidence.
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📞 Take the Next Step Toward Hip Relief
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If you're struggling with hip pain from femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and conservative treatments haven’t brought lasting relief, surgery may be the next step to preserve your joint and restore your mobility.
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Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who simply wants to walk without pain, surgical treatment for FAI—arthroscopic or open—can help you return to the life you love.
Ready to Get Started?
You don’t have to live with impingement. Let’s preserve your hip and protect your future mobility—starting today.