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Bikini Hip Replacement

Bikini hip replacement is a muscle-sparing total hip replacement performed through a short incision placed low along your natural bikini line — rather than higher on the front of the hip — so the scar is easily hidden by swimwear and clothing. It’s a form of the direct anterior approach (DAA), working between the muscles rather than cutting through them. Dr. Dattilo offers bikini hip replacement for active patients across the Tampa Bay area, with same-day, outpatient options available.

It’s still a complete hip replacement

This is worth being clear about: a bikini hip replacement is a complete total hip replacement. You get the same durable, proven implants and the same long-term results as any well-performed hip replacement. The bikini technique changes where the incision is placed and how the scar looks afterward — not the quality or durability of the joint replacement itself.

The benefits of a muscle-sparing, hidden incision

Because the bikini approach is a form of anterior hip replacement, it carries the advantages of working between the muscles:

Who is a candidate?

Many active patients with hip arthritis whose pain limits daily life — and who care about a discreet, cosmetic result — are good candidates. Body type and anatomy do influence whether the bikini incision is the best choice; for some patients a standard anterior incision is more appropriate.

The best way to know is an evaluation with Dr. Dattilo, who will review your anatomy, activity goals, and X-rays and recommend the approach that fits you — including whether nonsurgical treatment is still the better path for now.

Recovery and what to expect

Recovery mirrors anterior hip replacement. Most patients are up and walking the same day of surgery, transition off a walker after the first 2–3 days and then a cane over a few weeks, and return to most everyday activities within about four weeks — with continued improvement over several months. Physical therapy is an important part of the process.

Many healthy patients have their bikini hip replacement performed as a same-day (outpatient) procedure at SmartCare in Palm Harbor and go home the same day. Learn more about outpatient joint replacement ›

Why patients choose Dr. Dattilo

Dr. Dattilo is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who focuses specifically on hip and knee replacements. He completed fellowship training at the Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute after earning his medical degree at Johns Hopkins and completing residency at the University of Pennsylvania. He has authored 45+ peer-reviewed publications and has been recognized among Becker’s Top 10 Total Joint ASC Physicians to Know.

Bikini hip replacement is one form of anterior hip replacement — learn more about the anterior and robotic-assisted approach. Dr. Dattilo sees patients at four Tampa Bay locations: St. Petersburg, Largo, Palm Harbor, and Sarasota.

Frequently asked questions

What is bikini hip replacement?
Bikini hip replacement is a muscle-sparing total hip replacement performed through a short incision placed low along your natural bikini line. It is a form of the direct anterior approach — the same surgery, with the incision oriented so the scar is hidden by swimwear and clothing.
Is it a real, complete hip replacement?
Yes. A bikini hip replacement is a complete total hip replacement. You get the same durable, proven implants and the same long-term results as any well-performed hip replacement — the bikini technique simply changes where the incision is placed and how the scar looks afterward.
How visible is the scar?
The incision is placed low, along the natural crease of the bikini line, so it sits where it is covered by swimwear, underwear, and fitted clothing. Because it follows the skin crease, it typically heals as a thin line that continues to fade over time.
Am I a candidate for the bikini incision?
Many active patients with hip arthritis are candidates. Body type and anatomy do influence whether the bikini incision is the best choice — for some patients a standard anterior incision is more appropriate. Dr. Dattilo reviews your anatomy, activity goals, and X-rays and recommends the approach that fits you.
How long is recovery after bikini hip replacement?
Recovery mirrors anterior hip replacement. Most patients are walking the same day of surgery, transition off a walker after the first 2–3 days and then a cane over a few weeks, and return to most everyday activities within about four weeks, with continued improvement over several months.
Is bikini hip replacement covered by insurance?
Because it is a standard total hip replacement, bikini hip replacement is generally covered by insurance, including Medicare, when it is medically necessary. Our team can help verify your coverage before surgery.

Learn more from trusted sources

Interested in a bikini hip replacement?

Find out whether you’re a candidate for a muscle-sparing, low-scar hip replacement.

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This information is general and educational and is not a substitute for an individual medical consultation. Please see Dr. Dattilo or your own physician for advice about your specific situation.