Bilateral hip replacement!

Posted , 3 users are following.

Hi! Two weeks ago I had both hips replaced- (bilateral hip replacement) - (anterior approach ) after unsuccessfully trying stem cell therapy a year ago on both hips..I am a professional Choreographer/performer/ dance instructor ....So far I'm progressing well....doing stairs and almost on a cane instead of my walker thanks to GREAT home PT! Something I noticed about my body since the surgery .....My hips feel wider? Is this what happens after bilateral hip replacement? Both of my hips were bone on bone before the surgery. ... I am still swollen and numb on certain parts of my legs...but my hip width is definitely bigger than before? My pants are really tight at the waist........ ( and I have lost a few pounds since the surgery. ) I feel a little bit like my figure has changed. My hips were always smaller than my shoulder width but immediately after the surgery they were wider. Will this go back to the way it was before or do I need to buy new clothes?

Thanks!

2 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Posted

    I have not had hip surgery, i have had knee replacements. Firstly it's only being two weeks since surgery and you will have a lot of swelling and bruising which can take a few weeks to go back to normal. You may feel more comfortable wearing loose clothing such as joggers or loose dresses, depending on what you like to wear. Contine with the pysiotherapy as this will help with getting your mobility back quicker. When you go back for a check up with the consultant you will be more active and know more about the final result. I have known someone that had one hip replaced and it did take a few months to get back to normal. Wishing you a speedy recovery. 

    Elizabeth.

    • Posted

      Thanks Elizabeth! I am feeling really good and the PT IS FABULOUS!

      I was mentally ready for the incisions and scars I would have.... but was not prepared for what appears to be an instant extra inch on to my waistline. Maybe it is still swelling from surgery. I am very small to begin with 5'3 ....123lbs.....is it possible that the new hips are bigger than my old hips? Are there sizes for replaced joints?

      (I shouldn't complain as I am grateful and so thrilled to have my new hips...just curious and wondered if anyone else has experienced this?)

      Thanks!

  • Posted

    I've had 2 knees totally replaced.  I would say that with knees there are different sizes of protheses but they generally match you up with the appropriate size.  I'd think that this is 'post surgery' feelings.  Swollen and numb is very normal.  Some people immediately gain 2 pounds - the weight of the prostheses. Don't be concerned now.  All very normal feelings.  If you still feel the same in a year, re-visit the surgeon, if not earlier.  From my experience - when someone has a total knee replacement you can generally see on them that the prosthesis is too big.  But you've got ages before you need to be concerned. 

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