Are you considering going for knee surgery in Mexico? Want to know what makes Mexico safe for knee surgery? This all-in-one guide will tell you why Mexico is a better alternative and how it can help you save 80%! Ready to bid farewell to your knee pain? Let us tell you how!

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Knee Surgery in Mexico Review

Deciding to do a knee replacement surgery is not simple. You have to factor in surgery costs, convenience, healthcare standards, rehabilitation costs, & recovery time after surgery.

What if we told you Mexico checks all these boxes? Keep reading to see for yourself!

Why Choose Mexico for Knee Replacement Surgery?

US patients choose Mexico because of the proximity of both countries and cheaper costs. The accessibility of air/road routes and the presence of certified clinics make it a prime attraction.

The quality of aftercare services and orthopedic experts is simply the best. Let's look at all the advantages getting knee replacement surgery in Mexico has:

  • Costs: Save up to 70% compared to US costs
  • Quality: US-trained orthopedic surgeons, latest technology, & aftercare services
  • Convenience: Multiple travel routes via air & road
  • No Delays: Avail swift diagnosis & treatment plans
  • Safe Locations: Our orthopedic clinics are in safe neighborhoods
  • Tourist Spot: Enjoy Mexico's beaches, cuisine, & rich culture[1]

Need some more reasons? Let's find out why Mexico is good for healthcare!

Why Do People Go to Mexico For Healthcare?

Mexico has high healthcare standards, at par with most US hospitals or clinics.[2]

  • Most cities have first-rate hospitals offering affordable care.
  • Most prescription drugs & medications are available at least 40-60% less than in the US.[3]
  • Many are English-speaking doctors. If not, interpreter services are provided.
Question

Did you know?

US hospitals often fix their pricing based on profit targets rather than the actual cost to perform the surgery.[4] This cost discrepancy is one of the reasons that medical tourism to Mexico is appealing to many prospective patients.

For those without insurance, knee surgery in Mexico is a perfect fit! Want to see what actual patients have said about knee surgery in Mexico? See below!

Knee Surgery in Mexico: Reviews

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Meniscus Repair in Tijuana, Mexico

Patient's Review

Now, let's find out how much knee surgery in Mexico would cost you.

How Much Is a Knee Surgery in Mexico?

Wondering how much does a knee surgery cost in Mexico? The average cost of knee surgery in Mexico is between $3,500-25,000.

In the US, on the other hand, prices go as high as $20,000-70,000. For instance, the cost of a total knee replacement in Mexico starts at $7,000.

The cost of knee replacement surgery in the US can go up to $50,000 on average. This means that you can save more than 80% of the cost in Mexico!

Knee Surgery Cost Comparison (USD)
Procedure USA Mexico
Partial Knee Replacement* $20,000 - $40,000 $10,500 - $12,000
Total Knee Replacement* $30,000 - $50,000 $7,000 - $15,800
Robotic Knee Replacement* $40,000 - $50,000 $11,000
Bilateral Knee Replacement^ $60,000 - $70,000 $25,000
Knee Arthroscopy* $12,550 - $21,990 $3,500 - $7,700
Meniscus Repair* $9,000 - $30,000 $3,500 - $7,800
ACL Repair* $20,000 - $50,000 $7,500 - $14,000
*One Knee ^Both Knees

Let's break down the cost of knee surgery in different cities of Mexico!

Orthopedic Knee Surgery in Mexico [2023 Prices]

Cost of Knee Surgery in Cancun, Mexico

Knee Surgery Cost Cancun (USD)
Procedure Cost
ACL Repair $14,000
Knee Arthroscopy (Meniscal Repair) $7,000
Total Knee Replacement $15,800

Cost of Knee Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Knee Surgery Cost Tijuana (USD)
Procedure Cost
Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty $7,000
Knee Arthroscopy $6,000
Meniscus Repair $7,800
ACL Repair $6,000
Partial Knee Replacement $12,000

Cost of Knee Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Knee Surgery Cost Puerto Vallarta (USD)
Procedure Cost
Knee Arthroscopy $5,200
Meniscus Repair $5,500
ACL Repair $7,700
Unilateral Knee Replacement $13,500
Bilateral Knee Replacement $25,000

Cost of Knee Surgery in Puebla, Mexico

Knee Surgery Cost Puebla (USD)
Procedure Cost
Unilateral Knee Replacement $9,500
Robotic Knee Replacement $11,000
Partial Knee Replacement $10,500

Cost of Knee Surgery in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico

Knee Surgery Cost Ciudad Juarez (USD)
Procedure Cost
Knee Arthroscopy $3,800
Unilateral Knee Replacement $13,000

Cost of Knee Surgery in Los Algodones, Mexico

Knee Surgery Cost Los Algodones (USD)
Procedure Cost
Knee Arthroscopy $3,500
Meniscal Repair $3,500
ACL Repair $4,500

Cost of Knee Surgery in Mexicali, Mexico

Knee Surgery Cost Mexicali (USD)
Procedure Cost
Knee Arthroscopy $5,000
Meniscal Repair $5,000
ACL Repair $8,000
Unilateral Knee Replacement $11,500
#Prices are subject to change

The knee replacement surgery costs out of pocket may also vary with regard to the patient's:

  • Age
  • Existing health conditions
  • The recovery period, post-surgery

However, with MTC, you can choose a package that best suits your individual needs!

Knee Replacement Surgery Packages for Mexico

Our all-inclusive knee replacement in Mexico package includes the following:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Pre-operative tests
  • Airport pick-up & drop off
  • Hospitalization & surgeon's fee
  • Hotel stay
  • Anesthesia
  • FDA-approved knee implants
  • Post-operative medications

Knee implant brand: Zimmer Biomet. Packages depend upon the provider you choose.
Knee Replacement in Mexico Package

Mexico All-Inclusive TKR Package

When you can upgrade your knees and save 80% in Mexico, then what's the wait? Mexico also has many benefits other than cost savings. Find out about them below!

Save ~80% on medical bills!

Avail all-inclusive packages

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Does Mexico Have Better Healthcare Than the United States?

According to a recent study, the quality & cost of healthcare in Mexico trumped the US!

Healthcare in Mexico vs. US
Mexico Rank USA Rank
Cost
#17 (51% more than the US) #41
Convenient Location
#19 #12 (2% more than Mexico)
Skill & Competence of Medical Staff
#17 #16 (1% more than Mexico)
Friendliness & Courtesy of the Staff
#12 #11 (2% more than Mexico)
Modern Equipment for Diagnosis & Treatment
#25 #11 (12% more than Mexico)
Short Waiting Times
#13 #10 (1% more than Mexico)
Speed in Delivering Reports
#13 (1% more than the US) #14
Accuracy in Filling Out Reports
#22 #11 (10% more than Mexico)
Healthcare System Index
#15 (4% more than the US) #23

Source: Nation Master[5]

Now let's explore the knee surgery procedures in more detail!

All About Knee Surgery in Mexico

What is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is a surgical procedure also known as knee Arthroplasty done primarily by orthopedic surgeons to replace damaged knee joints due to severe arthritis.

This replacement is done using artificially custom-made parts from synthetic materials such as metal, ceramic, or plastic (polyethylene). It is done with parts made of synthetic materials such as metal, ceramic, or plastic.

These custom-made artificial parts fit well with the knee joints.

TKR X-Ray

X-ray: Osteoarthritis in Knee & After Total Knee Replacement

Patients may have temporary pain in the new joint post-surgery or find their mobility more restricted than before. Physical therapy is recommended after the brief recovery period post-surgery as it aids in a faster healing process.

Gentle physical activity after surgery is also suitable for recovery and the healing process.

Source: Medline Plus[6]

Now let's look at the types of knee replacement surgeries in Mexico.

Types of Knee Surgery in Mexico

What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Mexico?

Total knee replacement is a complex surgery where the surgeon:

  • Cuts the arthritically damaged ends of the tibia & femur
  • Caps both with prostheses

This procedure provides most patients with pain relief and improved knee joint function. The surgery usually lasts for 1.5-3 hours per knee.

Total Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement

The prosthetic pieces surgically inserted into the joints are metal or polyethylene. These pieces move against one another, thereby creating a functional knee joint.

Patients usually go through a partial recovery in 4-6 weeks. For complete recovery, it usually takes a period of 6 months-1 year.

Source: Medicine Net[7]

Question

Did you know?

According to a recent study, 82% of total knee replacements last 25 years in patients with osteoarthritis.[8]

What is Robotic Knee Replacement in Mexico?

Robotic knee replacement is similar to traditional knee replacement in some ways.

The surgeon removes and replaces the knee joint but with assistance from a robotic arm.

This results in greater precision and better alignment of the new joint.

This also increases how long the knee implant can survive.

Source: NLM[9]

Robotic Knee Replacement

Robotic Knee Replacement

What is Partial Knee Replacement Surgery in Mexico?

Partial knee replacement surgery is considered an alternative to total knee replacement surgery.

Also called unicompartmental knee replacement, it involves only a part of the damaged knee.

The surgeon replaces the affected portion of the knee with a prosthesis.

This type of surgery can replace either:

  • The inside (medial) part,
  • The outside (lateral) part, or
  • The kneecap part of the knee

Partial Knee Replacement

Partial Knee Replacement

Since this kind of surgery needs smaller incisions, the recovery time is less. Partial recovery is usually in 2 weeks or less.

But you can start working with a physical therapist sooner to get back to fluid mobility.

Source: OrthoInfo[10]

What is Arthroscopic Surgery in Mexico?

The most common knee surgeries include a procedure which is called arthroscopy.

This surgical technique repairs most types of knee problems that are untreatable with medications.

Arthroscopy is a keyhole surgery that helps the surgeon diagnose & treat many different kinds of knee problems.[11]

Knee Arthroscopy in Mexico

Knee Arthroscopy in Mexico

Some of the most common arthroscopic procedures for the knee in Mexico include the following:

Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure in Mexico

Pre-Surgery Process

Based on your specific medical condition, the surgeon will take preliminary tests before the procedure. It may include:

  • X-ray analysis
  • Complete physical examination + blood tests + other diagnostic tests as needed
  • Complete medical history analysis
  • Evaluation of knee stability + knee size + extent of damage

You will have to sign a consent form for surgery.

Your doctor may ask you to fast for about 6-12 hours before the procedure.

Knee Evaluation

Knee Evaluation

  • Inform your knee surgeon if you are allergic or have a sensitivity to any medication
  • Share information about your current medications (if any)
  • Consult a physical therapist. This will help with the physical rehabilitation process post-surgery.

Day of Surgery

The knee surgery usually lasts for 2 hours or less (for partial knee replacement surgery). The procedure is as follows:

  • Anesthesia during the surgical procedure
  • The surgeon approaches the knee from the front, where he makes the incision.
  • Then, the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are removed and resurfaced with an artificial knee prosthesis.
  • The prosthesis is attached to the bone with surgical cement.
  • The incision is closed with stitches. Then the surgeon uses a sterile bandage or dressing on the site of surgery.

Knee Replacement - During Surgery

Knee Replacement Surgery
  • Drains are removed within 24 hours, and the patient is recommended to walk on postoperative day 2.
  • While observing improvement continually, discharge within 5 to 14 days if the wound has healed satisfactorily and a 90-degree knee flexion has been achieved without complications.
  • In time, post-recovery, the bone naturally grows to adhere to the prosthesis.

Anesthesia prior to the surgery will depend on the history and prior medical condition of the patient, which informs a choice of regional or general anesthesia.

Antibiotics and antithrombotic drugs are administered 30 minutes before incision, if necessary, under an expert's supervision.

Post Surgery Recovery

Opting for an in-house stay at the hospital for some days is essential to a speedy recovery.

You will be under post-operative care, including hydration and analgesia, during this period to ensure a safe and peaceful healing process.

Cryotherapy may be used to reduce postoperative swelling and pain.

You may be able to walk on crutches about two weeks after surgery.

Knee Replacement Recovery | Steps with Crutches

Knee Replacement Recovery

Low-impact activities such as swimming or walking can help in the process.

  • The usual recovery period is 4 months-1 year, though one can resume daily activities slowly.
  • Consult a physiotherapist post-surgery
  • Light walking and the usual day-to-day activities are usually comfortable and help build strength around the knee joints.
  • Slowly increase the range of physical activities during the next six months to one year to get full mobility back.

Source: Medline Plus[12]

Our typical surgery package for a knee replacement surgery with MTC will look like this :

Knee Replacement in Mexico Schedule

Knee Replacement in Mexico Schedule
Knee Replacement Trip to Mexico
Knee Replacement Surgery Schedule Duration
Hospital Stay 3 nights
Hotel Stay 3 nights

Now that you know how the process will go, let's find out whether knee surgery in Mexico is safe!

Is Knee Surgery Safe in Mexico?

Most knee surgeries are considered safe and effective. For example, in total knee replacement complications occur in fewer than 2% of patients.[13]

Similarly, knee arthroscopy also has a less than 2% complication rate.[14] Robotic knee replacement reduces the chances of you needing revision surgery.[15]

When you select an experienced, skilled, and certified surgeon, your success rates of surgery increase. MTC recommended surgeons have a 90-99% success rate in knee surgeries. All of them are Mexican board-certified orthopedic surgeons. Want to know more about them? Keep scrolling!

Best Knee Surgeons in Mexico

MTC brings to you the best surgeons for knee replacement surgery in Mexico. Our network of medical partners goes through a stringent process to ensure the highest quality standards for our American patients.

Quality Parameters | Mexico Knee Surgeons

Mexico Knee Surgeons - Quality Parameters

Moreover, our orthopedic surgeons in Mexico have specific experience in handling the needs of American patients better. This skill set comes from years of experience and familiarity with patient expectations.

Here we suggest the best five knee surgeons in Mexico who fulfill MTC's quality parameters.

Click here to read more!

Click here to read more!

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Click here to read more!

*Success rates are based on a self-assessment model of surgical complications & any severe cases like death post-surgery.

Ready to get rid of your knee joint pain? Want to know more about the hospitals you will get treated at? Find out in the next section!

Consult our expert surgeons!

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Best Hospitals for Knee Surgery in Mexico

Go through the details of our partner hospitals for knee surgery in Mexico below. Need to know more about different Mexican cities before visiting? Then keep reading!

Top 5 Orthopedic Tourism Destinations in Mexico

Avail US standard services at our specialized partner clinics in the following locations.

Cancun | Puerto Vallarta | Tijuana | Ciudad Juraez | Pubela

1. Orthopedic Surgery in Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is world-famous not only for its beaches but also for its shopping locales.

The world-famous Chichen Itza is here.[16]

Choose to explore a Catamaran cruise and explore the beautiful waterways here.[17]

And don't forget to try some tequila!

The World Heritage site, Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, is located here, close to Tulum.[18]

Medical Tourism in Cancun

Cancun

Nearest airport: Cancun International Airport

Non-stop Flight Times to Cancun From U.S. Cities
Origin Cancun
Miami (MIA) 1 hr 46 min
Houston (IAH) 2 hr 15 min
Dallas (DFW) 2 hr 40 min
Los Angeles (LAX) 4 hr 36 min
San Francisco (SFO) 5 hr 24 min

2. Orthopedic Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

A well-known destination, Puerta Vallarta is famous for its beach clubs, pools, spas, and gyms.

Here the bars and clubs are usually open till 3.00 am. The nightlife is vivid.[19]

One can chance upon a food tour and explore the local cuisines of the city. Or explore a chocolate-making class.

Join a free walking tour, especially during the evenings, to get a taste of the local flavor.

Medical Tourism in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta

Nearest airport: Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport

Non-stop Flight Times to PV From U.S. Cities
Origin Puerto Vallarta
Houston (IAH) 2 hr 26 min
Dallas (DFW) 2 hr 38 min
Los Angeles (LAX) 3 hr 0 min
San Francisco (SFO) 3 hr 46 min

3. Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Tijuana is very famous for its Lucha libre (wrestling matches).[20] Since it is a heavily guarded border, Tijuana is very safe to travel to.[21]

Did you know that Caesar's salad originated from this place?[22]

Also well known as a retirement destination, Tijuana boasts of some of the best food joints and locales to visit.

Don't miss the lobsters if you are a food geek!

Tijuana Cultural Center | Mexico Tourism

Tijuana
Driving Time to Tijuana From US Cities
US City Duration
San Diego 30 min
Los Angeles 2 hr 14 min
Las Vegas 5 hr 19 min

4. Orthopedic Surgery in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico

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Orthopedic Surgery in Ciudad Juarez

Ciudad Juarez is a beautiful destination.

While traveling here, you should be prudent during the night hours and be aware of your surroundings.

It is advisable to use ATMs in bank branches during business hours.

Though cases of credit card fraud happen now and then, following basic security rules can help you remain safe and secure.

Source: Travel Safe[23]

Medical Tourism in Juarez

Ciudad Juarez

Nearest airport: Ciudad Juarez International Airport (CJS)

Nearest American airport: El Paso International Airport (EPL)

Driving Time to Juarez from US Cities
US City Duration
Socorro, Texas 35 min
Sunland Park, New Mexico 35 min
Las Cruces, New Mexico 1 hr 10 min
Tucson, Arizona 5 hr

5. Orthopedic Surgery in Puebla, Mexico

Puebla, in its magical way, is a jewel from the yesteryears.

It has incredible architecture and culinary treasures, which attract visitors from far and near.

The art museums are a great draw. Enjoy the murals and the beautiful Cathedral de Puebla when you are there.[24]

If you have an eye for artisan products and antiques, don't miss Frog Alley.[25]

Medical Tourism in Puebla

Puebla
Flight Time to Puebla From US Cities
Origin Puebla(PBC) Number of stops
Houston (IAH) 2 hr 14 min Non-stop
Atlanta (ATL) 5 hr 38 min Layover: Houston
Chicago(ORD) 5 hr 53 min Layover: Houston
Dallas (DFW) 6 hr 10 min Layover: Monterrey

We also offer knee surgery in Los Algodones & Mexicali.

Driving Time to Los Algodones from US Cities
US City Duration
Yuma, Arizona 20 min
Phoenix, Arizona 3 hr
Los Angeles, California 4 hr 30 min
Driving Time to Mexicali from US Cities
US City Duration
Yuma, Arizona 1 hr 10 min
Phoenix, Arizona 3 hr 54 min
Los Angeles, California 3 hr 51 min

If you are driving to Mexico, it is effortless. You can use your vehicle or rented car to travel across the US-Mexico border.

Some of the documents required to drive to Mexico include:

  • Passport book or card
  • Current driving license
  • Mexico tourist permit card
  • Current vehicle registration

Source: US Dept of State[26]

Medical Trip to Mexico

Did you know that Mexico has as many as 500 beaches?[27]

Along with its coastlines, it is also known for ancient ruins, its vibrant culture, and tortillas! Cancun is one of the most visited cities in Mexico, specially built as a resort destination.[28]

Some of the most luxurious and biggest resorts have their presence here.

Resort Destination | Cancun | Mexico

Cancun

Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen

Other locations of repute are Playa del Carmen, Cozumel Island, and the Mayan Riviera area. One of the jewels of Mexico is Guanajuato, a UNESCO world heritage-listed city.

Walking tours are famous here.[29] Pottery lovers can find their fix at Puebla for its stunning Talavera pottery.[30]

Medical Tourism Destination | Mayan Riviera, Mexico

Mayan Riviera

Cozumel Island | Mexico Tourism

Cozumel Island

The cities of Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas have some of the best beaches. These locations are popular for diving, snorkeling, and fishing.

You can also enjoy the artifacts of the past among the numerous ancient ruins that dot the Mexican landscape. They stand as a proud reminder of Mexico's cultural and historical background.

If you are a food lover, then Mexican cuisine is worth exploring! Don't miss the world-famous tacos, enchiladas, and tortillas when you come here.

Mexican Cuisine

Mexican Cuisine

Mexico is a famous medical tourism destination with the best places to relax and chill. These destinations are well known for quality hospitals, the best hotels, and food.

Have some more questions about Mexico? We have answered them for you below!

FAQs About Knee Surgery in Mexico

A total knee replacement in Mexico would cost around $7,000, compared to $50,000 in the USA. Thus, traveling to Mexico for knee surgery can save more than 80% on the costs quoted back home.

Meniscus repair in Mexico costs $3,500, half of the US price. The price varies based on the patient's age, the severity and exact location of the injury, the presence of related injuries, and the chosen hospital.

Our partner knee replacement medical centers in Mexico accept credit or debit cards, wire transfers, bank transfers, and PayPal.

Mexico's reasonably priced knee surgery and high standards of patient care prove to be a boon for uninsured patients in the US.[31]

Mexico's all-inclusive knee surgery package for the self-funded includes the surgeon's fee, pre-operative stage, & follow-up care.

You will have to stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days after having a knee replacement in Mexico.

Conclusion

Knee surgery in Mexico is a safe and affordable way to get back on your feet. Our team can help create a customized travel package for knee surgery in Mexico, considering your specific condition.

Visit Mexico for knee surgery!

Know all about the process today

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References