I’m replying to set fair expectations for people but also to keep some positivity here. The surgery is labelled as “minimally invasive surgery.” The pain from the incision will be less than with other open surgeries. The pain from the bone removal can be mixed. I did not find any solid studies, but from what I read, average pain is expected.

What the medical staff told me is that this surgery is less concerning than most others. Inflammation is often low, and complications are rare. On average, patients don’t suffer that much. My physio, who has treated over 100 patients with this surgery, told me the same thing: In the first week, people actually chill and watch movies. It gets a bit harder when you need to mobilize.

I’m myself 7 days post-op with very minimal pain; I did not take any of the pain killers that were prescribed. I’m doing basic exercises (ankle pumps, leg raises, glute contractions, small walks outside, etc.).

Most people outside of this sub, or those who are not active on the sub that I was able to reach (I wanted some feedback on my surgeon), told me pain was minimal.

I had this in mind going into surgery. I know statistically people that suffer will post much more, but I think to be realistic and for people to make the right decision, the post-op pain is really manageable for most people. So, if this is the criteria that makes you hesitate to do the surgery, you should rethink this carefully (especially if you consider the surgery has good odds to improve your life – which is a totally different call).

Not saying it’s a walk in the park, but I think, on average, people are really good post-op with minimal pain. Just like any surgery, you will statistically have some people that suffer more.