The effects of the hip graft harvest vary greatly from person to person. Some can walk without feeling anything after a few days, while some experience pain. For me any movement was very painful the first days, and I couldn't walk without pain until the second week. Getting out of bed was particularly difficult and painful because you rely so much on your hip, at least I do, apparently. I don't think I would've been able to run or exercise until the 7th or 8th week, because I remember I still had some discomfort getting out of bed by the 5th week. It really depends on the person though, in terms of response to painkillers and also how you use the hip/iliac crest in daily tasks. Dr Z told me that most patients don't have problems like I did. One guy who had surgery the same day as me was walking without any problems the next day, so you may be more fortunate than me. I have no issues today, but this experience truly made me realize the importance of good health. That being said, I would do it again due to the aesthetic improvement and the importance of looks in society.
I wouldn't worry about the swelling too much, most of it will be gone in a few weeks, but it will take longer to see the final result. I doubt anyone will suspect that you had surgery. Good luck!
