I had ankle surgery in 2001 is it common to still have swelling and pain 12 years later?

The question: I would ask is why first inquire 12 years later? Once you had the surgery and pain and swelling was a few months old that would of been the appropriate time to get follow up. You need to be evaluated in person by a doctor, with at minimum x-rays to see what was done, how the jet looks now, position of any hardware and what your options are, .

See below: Unfortunately in some people swelling will last a life time after surgery.