Drummergirl, thank you for joining in this conversation. It's funny (but not) that you describe it being "thicker" than the other thigh. I have that feeling also but not sure it is how it looks. I guess when it is numb, like when the dentist shoots novacaine in your gums, that area feels enlarged, puffed up. I am like you -- I do not believe it will ever be quite normal again (I'm at almost 17 months now/ortho said 18 months). But as you an Queenie say, if your hip is pain free and you're back to an active life, I suppose the numbness is not such a big price to pay. But I am wondering why it even has to be that way. Can't they carefully handle and retract the femur nerve more gently to avoid bruising/damage that results in the numbness and nerve pain? I would think so because the majority of people I know, including about 8 friends and my sister, never experienced this nerve pain/numbness in thigh. Oh well, it is the way it is. Have a great day!!