A muscle-sparing anterior hip replacement placed along the natural crease of the groin, so the scar sits where swimwear and underwear cover it.
The bikini incision is a refinement of the direct anterior hip replacement. The surgery underneath is the same muscle-sparing operation, but the incision is oriented differently, running diagonally along the natural crease of the groin rather than straight down the thigh.
Because the incision follows the natural line of the groin rather than cutting across it, the tissue tends to be less irritated and the wound settles more comfortably, which supports the quick recovery the anterior approach is known for. Because of where it sits, the scar stays hidden under a swimsuit, shorts, or low-rise clothing.
Both approaches are excellent operations in experienced hands, and the posterior approach remains the right choice for some patients. Dr. Debbi will tell you directly which approach suits your anatomy.
A CT scan of your hip is used to build a patient-specific model. Implant size, position, offset, and leg-length correction are all planned in software before you reach the operating room.
The incision is planned on your own anatomy while you are positioned, so it lands in your natural groin crease. This is what keeps the scar hidden.
The surgeon works through the interval between the sartorius and tensor fasciae latae. No muscle or tendon is cut or detached, which is why the muscles that control walking and balance have nothing to heal from.
The arthritic femoral head is replaced with a ceramic ball on a titanium stem, and the socket is resurfaced with a precisely oriented cup and bearing liner.
A fluoroscopic image confirms implant position, leg length, and offset while you are still on the table. This real-time check is a specific advantage of operating from the front.
The wound is closed in layers with absorbable sutures beneath the skin, so there are no staples and nothing to remove. A waterproof dressing lets you shower within days.
Timelines are typical, not guaranteed. Individual recovery varies with age, health, the condition of the hip before surgery, and how consistently you do your physical therapy. Dr. Debbi will give you a personalized plan.
Candidacy for the bikini orientation specifically depends on your body habitus and hip anatomy. In patients with a higher body mass index or a deep groin crease, a standard anterior incision may heal more reliably, and Dr. Debbi will recommend that instead rather than compromise on wound healing for cosmetics.
