Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico
Are painful hips & high cost of surgery cramping your life? Walk with ease by getting hip replacement surgery in Mexico. Whether arthritis or fracture: say goodbye to all those painful woes at a fraction of the US cost!
Read this guide to learn about Mexico’s costs, the best doctors, and hospitals.
A Surgeon's Guide to Discovering Pain Relief in Mexico
The cost of hip replacement in the United States is sky-high. Opting for hip replacement surgery in Mexico instead of the US or Canada can help.
It doesn't mean sacrificing quality. Don’t just take the word for it. Explore the patient reviews and witness the results firsthand.
Hip Replacement Mexico: Patient Reviews
Discover Jerry's journey, as a timely hip replacement surgery in Mexico provided relief to him.
David Stahl, Alberta, CanadaHip Replacement Surgery, Mexico
Professional Team!
Jerry urgently needed a hip replacement, but faced a 2-year wait in Canada. Dr. Hans in Tijuana stepped in with care and expertise.
Now read Sabrina's story where a hip replacement in Mexico revolutionised her life.
Sabrina Cruz, UruguayanHip Replacement Surgery, Mexico
Immensely Grateful!
At 42, hip dysplasia caused unbearable pain. Dr. Raul Arjona's expertise in total hip replacement restored my life.
Now, hear Doug as he recounts the care he received during his hip surgery in Mexico.
Doug Shares His Experience During His Hip Replacement Mexico
Hip replacement cost without insurance is too high in the US. Shouldering this finance can drain your pocket. Because of this, many Americans pick Mexico to say goodbye to immense pain. Let’s explore the hip replacement surgery costs in Mexico by scrolling down.
What is the Cost of Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico?
Regardless of the hip surgery type, Mexico is more affordable than the US and Canada. By opting for a hip replacement Mexico, you can save up to 80%.
For instance, the unilateral total hip replacement cost in Mexico is $9,000. This is over four times less than the US cost of $44,000.
If you consider hip replacement revision surgery in Mexico, it costs you only $25,000. While the same in the US will cost you $87,000. See the table below for detailed costs and savings on the new hip in Mexico.
| Procedure | US | Mexico | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unilateral total hip replacement | $44,000 | $9,000 | 80% |
| Bilateral total hip replacement | $62,000 | $29,000 | 53% |
| Robotic unilateral hip replacement | $21,000 | $11,000 | 48% |
| Hip resurfacing | $34,000 | $11,500 | 66% |
| Hip replacement revision surgery | $87,000 | $25,000 | 72% |
#Prices are subject to change.
How To Pay for Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico?
You can make payments via bank transfer, cheques, or credit cards at our partner clinics. If needed, Supermoney also offers financing options.
Curious about why costs are lower?
Why Does Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico Cost So Low?
In general, the following factors influence the hip surgery cost:[1]
- Hospital charges
- Billing practices
- Location-based expenses like rent
- Hip implant costs
- Malpractice insurance
- Hospital services after surgery
However, it is different in Mexico. Here are the reasons for the low costs.
Medical personnel in Mexico earn less than in other countries. Mexican doctors make around 1/14th of the average monthly salary of US doctors.[2]
In addition, the cost of living in Mexico is lower in comparision to the US.[3] This results in reduced expenses for the doctors and subsequently leading to less cost for patients.
In Mexico, medical studies are free in public schools. Or the tution fees are low in private universities. There's no student debt here in Mexico. Since doctors don't have debt, it leads to lower costs.[4]
In the US, doctors order expensive tests to prevent lawsuits ahead of time.[5] However, it is not compulsory for doctors in Mexico to buy such insurance.[6] This saving passes on to the patients.
Contracts influence hip replacement costs in the US. It includes implants, medications, and other services.[7]
However, in Mexico, the doctors own their practice. The involvement of drug companies and pharmacists is less. Besides, there are no corporates to grab the profits. This reduces the expenses for doctors and hence the patients.
Reasons for Low Costs of Hip Replacement in Mexico
The cost of private hip replacement is expensive in the US. On the other hand, patients in Canada face longer wait times.[8]
In these conditions, the same service in Mexico is a better choice. Although, thinking about having surgery in Mexico could raise many questions. So here's a cool tidbit to ease your concerns!
Mexico: Hot Spot for Medical Tourism
Top Destination for Medical Tour!
Mexico is a preferred destination for outbound medical travelers from the US.[9]
Nearly 1.2 million Americans and Canadians travel to Mexico every year for surgeries.[10]
There are many key reasons to select Mexico for hip replacement. Explore them in detail here!
Mexico: Hot Spot for Medical Tourism
Why Consider Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico?
Mexico receives global recognition for its medical facilities.[11] Here's why many Americans opt for hip replacement surgery in Mexico.
The US healthcare system is costly without enough health insurance for at-risk groups.[12]
At-risk groups include elderly patients. The cost comparison table shows that Mexican treatment prices are lower than the US costs.
In Canada, orthopedic surgery often requires long wait times of around 32.4 weeks.[13] This pushes patients to seek treatment in Mexico rather than waiting in pain.
You will find it easy to reach here from the US by air and road. Many US cities offer direct flights to major Mexican cities.
Besides, Mexico shares a border with the US. So, you can drive to Tijuana, it is just 20 miles from San Deigo, California.
Moverover, Mexican hospitals offer airport shuttle transport. So reaching our associated clinics will not be a hassle.
Mexico has top hospitals that have onsite labs equipped with advanced technology. You'll also get guest amenities, concierge, and language translator services.
Here in Mexico, you will get treated by highly qualified surgeons. They are associated with prestigious organisations like AAOS, AAHKS and MCOT.
They gained expertise through more than 15 years of experience. So, you are in safe hands!
Perks of Choosing Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico
Still have doubts? Watch this video to learn more about medical tourism in Mexico.
Medical Tourism in Mexico Has a Bunch of Benefits
Wondering why choose MTC for your hip replacement? We've got the answer!
Why Choose MTC for Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico?
Choosing MTC for Hip replacement Mexico has several benefits for you. We work with the best hospitals and surgeons in Mexico and screen them based on:
- Negotiated patient costs
- Hospital and surgeon credentials
- Local and global hospital recognition
- Experience in treating patients from abroad
In addition, we have a long list of positive reviews as well. Furthermore, MTC offers medical tourism consultants to assist you. These consultants handle the majority of your treatment needs.
For this reason, thousands of happy clients have placed their trust in us for years. MTC has the highest A+ BBB ranking. With this screening level, we provide a safe surgical experience to the patient.
What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery refers to a procedure carried out to replace a damaged hip joint.
The artificial joint replaces the natural joint.[14]
Doctors suggest it when you experience pain and limited motion in the hip for different reasons.
Artficial Hip Joint
Hip Implant Parts
Did You Know?
The first known observations of degenerative hip disease can be traced back to Neanderthal era.[15]
But it was only in 1891 that the first hip replacement succeeded when done by Dr. Themistocles Gluck.[16]
He used ivory implants for this. In 1940, Dr. Austin T. Moore introduced successful metallic implants.
These implants have improved over time due to scientific progress. Today, the AAOS regards this surgery as highly successful.[17]
Before moving forward, let's learn the hip joint structure and when replacement is required.
Structure of Hip Joint
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint and is one of the body's largest joints.
Cartilage covers the ball and socket bone surfaces. It helps in easy movement of the hip.
The synovial membrane, a thin tissue, surrounds the hip joint. In a healthy hip, this thin tissue produces fluid.
It lubricates the cartilage and does not cause friction during hip movement.[18]
Structure of Hip Joint
Before going further, checkout if hip replacement surgery in Mexico is for you.
Eligibility for Hip Replacement in Mexico
If you have these problems, you probably need it:
- Your hip hurts even when you rest.
- Hip pain makes walking and bending hard.
- Medicine and walking aids don't help enough.
- Stiff hip limits movement, even lifting the leg.
Source: WebMD[19]
What Causes a Damaged Hip Joint?
The common reason for a damaged hip joint and hip pain is arthritis. It can be osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic arthritis. Other causes are osteonecrosis and childhood hip disease.
Osteoarthritis
- Age-related 'wear and tear' due to cartilage wear off in the joint
- Individuals aged above 50 years and with an arthritis family history
Rheumatoid arthritis
- An autoimmune disease with inflamed synovial membrane
- Cartilage damage, pain, and stiffness
Post-traumatic arthritis
- Result of a severe hip injury or fracture
- Damaged cartilage causes hip pain and stiffness
Osteonecrosis
- Limited blood supply to the joint causes bone surface collapse, leading to arthritis
Childhood hip disease
- Some infants and children have hip problems that cause arthritis later in life.
Source: AAOS[20]
Watch this video to dispel any misconceptions you had about arthritis.
Breakdown the Myths Surrounding Arthritis
Who Is Not an Ideal Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?
In general, you are not an ideal candidate for hip replacement in Mexico if you:
- Smoke[21]
- Are overweight or obese[22]
- Have suffered from cancer
- Have had a heart attack or stroke
- Has diabetes, high BP, or cholesterol[23]
Quit Smoking
Being Overweight Makes You Unfit
Diabetics: Not Ideal for Hip Surgery
Surgery is not suitable for patients with these higher risks conditions. However, your surgeon will evaluate your eligibility fbefore the surgery.
Hip replacement surgery comes in various types depending on the extent of hip damage. Let's now look into the different hip replacement surgeries available in Mexico.
Types of Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico
Your surgeon will suggest a suitable type based on age, gender, stature, and bone condition. Here are the various hip replacement surgeries you can expect in Mexico.
A total hip replacement surgery in Mexico is also called hip arthroplasty.
It is done on either the left or right hip joint.[24]
Metal, plastic, or ceramic parts replace damaged thigh bone head and socket.
It provides pain relief and easy movement. Further, it restores in normal functioning of the joint.
Total Hip Replacement Surgery
The head of the thigh bone is not removed. It is just trimmed and capped with a smooth metal covering.
The surgeon will remove and replace the damaged bone and cartilage with a metal shell [25]
It has lesser risk of hip dislocation. Besides it is easy to revise by simply exchanging the failed implants.
Hip Resurfacing Surgery
However, it carries potential risks like:
- Thigh bone neck fracture, later requiring a total hip replacement.
- Metal ion risk: Release of metal ions due to friction between an implant's moving metal ball and socket.
- It can lead to pain, swelling, and a need for revision.
It is also called the double hip replacement.
Your surgeon will replace both the left and right damaged hips in one surgery.
You don’t have to spend repeated hospitalizations for two separate surgeries.[26]
However, this is for you only if you can tolerate a longer surgery and challenging recovery.
Bilateral Hip Replacement Surgery
It is like regular hip replacement, but with robot arms helping.
It provides an enhanced accuracy and precision than traditional methods.
However, treatment costs are relatively higher due to the equipment costs.
It requires specialized training for the surgeon.
Further, success depends on the surgeon's expertise.
Hence, it is important to check the surgeon's skill in handling such cases.[27]
Robot Assisted Hip Replacemnet Surgery
Rarely, hip replacement surgery may fail over time for various reasons. The surgeon recommends a revision hip surgery to restore mobility in such cases.
They will remove some or all the prosthesis parts and replace them with new ones.[28]
Worried about the safety of hip replacement Mexico? We have covered you.
Is It Safe To Get Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico?
- Hip replacement in Mexico is safe when you research well and approach the best surgeon.
- MTC partners only with top hospitals and surgeons after verifying the credentials, reviews, and ratings.
- These Mexican hospitals have a journey of 50 years in patient care.
- Moreover, they have in-house laboratories and cutting-edge technology for optimal results.
- Further, MTC associates with the top, board-certified orthopedicians.
- They have a proven history of treating thousands of patients. Moreover, they have been trusted for years.
- Additionally, you will receive post-surgical follow-up care for upto 5 years*.
- This guarantees your well-being during the surgery and throughout the recovery phase.
- More importantly, nearly 16,396 hip replacement surgeries were carried out in Mexico solely in 2022.[29]
- So you don’t have to worry about its safety when trusted by so many patients.
*Depends on the hospital/ surgeon you opt.
Wondering how the process goes? Scroll further down for deeper insights.
Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico: Procedure
Note that your hip replacement in Mexico starts with a consultation. The doctor will evaluate you.
How will You be Evaluated for Hip Replacement Surgery?
Your doctor will do special tests, if you have hip pain and can't move well.
It includes checking:[30]
- Medical history: Overall health and family illness history
- Physical check: Assessing hip strength, movement, and alignment
- X-rays and MRI: To see bone and tissue condition and the extent of damage
- Hip pain level: Whether mild, moderate, or severe and its effect on the quality of daily life
Physical Examination
Surgery
A team led by an orthopedic surgeon will perform your hip replacement surgery in Mexico.
It will be performed under general anesthesia. It takes around 1-2 hours.
A double hip replacement surgery may take even longer.
- The orthopedic surgeon will cut along the thigh's side to reach the hip joint.
- Further, they will remove the damaged parts keeping the healthy parts intact.
- They will fix the artificial hip implant and implant stem into your pelvic bone.
- They will close the incisions.
- The recovery phase will follow this.
Hip Replacement Surgery Photos
Source: NIH[31]
How Will I Recover, and Where Will I Go After the Hip Replacement Surgery?
It will take 2-3 months to recover after hip replacement surgery.
Usually, physical therapy begins in the hospital.
You may continue this back home or in a special rehabilitation unit.
Most patients are safe enough to go home directly after the surgery.
However, remember that you'll receive post-surgery precautions before hospital discharge.
Your surgeon will offer a brief overview. But here's a sneak peek, to help you care your new hip.
- Avoid side lying while you rest.
- Perform light physical exercises for 6-8 weeks.
- Don't cross your legs or pressure the wound in the early stages.
- Prepare yourself for an follow-up appointment after 6-8 weeks post-surgery.
- Avoid low chairs and toilet seats for a few weeks. You may use elevated toilet seats.
- Falling may damage your new hip. Use walking aids like crutches or walkers to avoid falls.
- You may return to office-based work in 6 weeks. However, restrain from strenuous activities.
Avoid Side-Lying
Use Walking Aids
Source: Healthline [32]
Contact your surgeon right away if you notice redness, swelling, or fluid buildup.
You might worry about pain if your surgeon suggests a hip replacement. Here's all you need to know about pain after hip surgery.
Pain Relief After Hip Replacement Surgery
After surgery, you will feel some pain, especially after activity.
Yet, there are several ways to lessen this pain. Your doctor may inform you about 'RICE'.
- Rest: Just relax, listen to music, and meditate
- Ice: Use ice packs every 30 mins to reduce swelling, don't touch the skin directly
- Compression: Wear compression stockings to lessen swelling
- Elevation: Raise your leg on a pillow after lying down
If the pain continues, your surgeon may prescribe non-opioid drugs. You'll use them for few weeks. Make sure to talk to your surgeon for better pain management before the procedure itself.
Source: AAHKS[33]
Pain Management After Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico
You must be wondering about flying after hip replacement surgery in Mexico. Scroll further down and give it a read.
How Soon Can I Fly After Hip Replacement in Mexico?
The main concern about traveling after hip replacement is getting blood clots in your legs. It is also called DVT.[34] For this reason, most surgeons ask to wait 6 weeks before flying.
Talk to your surgeon, if clot risk is high for you.
However, keep in mind that you:
- Don’t forget to take the blood thinners prescribed by your surgeon
- Perform simple stretches, stand up, and move around during the flight
As a patient, you may not want to risk compromised care or an unskilled surgeon. Our partner hospitals and surgeons in Mexico for orthopedic treatment are chosen based on:
- Patient reviews
- Lower costs but quality care
- Doctor skills and certification
Based on these factors, we suggest the hospitals for your hip replacement in Mexico.
Recommended Orthopedic Hospitals for Hip Replacement Mexico
Here are the top orthopedic hospitals for Hip replacement surgery in Mexico.
Oasis of Hope in Tijuana is at a distance of 26 miles from San Deigo airport. It will take less than one hour to reach here.
This hospital has been delivering life-changing treatment in Tijuana at affordable costs for 50 years.
Oasis Orthopedics has some of the finest surgeons with extensive knowledge and skill.
They are board-certified surgeons and provide top-quality orthopedic treatment.
Besides, they speak English and Spanish. So you don’t have to worry about stressful communication.
All-inclusive prices includes doctor fees, discharge medications, pre/ post-operative tests, 3- night hospital stay, nutritionist consultation.
Other facilities:
- Free Consultation
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Fully equipped onsite lab
- 5 years of post-surgery care
- Ground transportation to and from airport
- Private hospital rooms with companion bed
Oasis of Hope, Mexico for Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico
It is located close to the US-Mexican border. You can cross the border at Calexico East port of entry and reach the hospital within 10 minutes.
Highlights:
- Free Wifi
- Cafeteria within premises
- ISO 9002-certified operating rooms
- Board-certified and experienced surgeons
- In-house laboratory and pharmacy that runs 24 hours
- Specialist medical care with state-of-the-art technology
- It is a state-of-the-art technology equipped hospital providing best orthopedic care in Tijuana.
- Hospital del Carmen is at 14 min drive distance from Tijuana International Airport.
- It is an ISO 9001 certified hospital and is headed by Dr. Hans Serna.
- You will receive expert care at your convenience.
- The hospital provides urgent consultations.
MTC also partners with top doctors to provide best ortho-care abroad. Explore the finest hip replacement surgeons in Mexico.
Top Orthopedic Surgeons for Hip Replacement in Mexico
Dr. Jesus Irineo Gallarzo Ramirez
20+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery
Education
Universidad Autonoma de Cd. Juarez
- Mexican board-certified surgeon
- Member of MCOT and AAOS and can speak English and Spanish too
- Expert in treating injuries of hip and knee
- Performs knee, shoulder, ankle and hip arthroscopies in Cuidad Jaurez
Dr. Maximilian Greig
25+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
National University of Mexico
- Member of AAOS,AAHKS, AMECRA, AANA
- Mexican board-certified orthopedic surgeon for hip replacement Puerto Vallarta
- Area of expertise is vast and includes hip and knee replacement surgeries, sports medicine, and joint replacement
Dr. Hans Ruiz Serna
9+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery
Education
Autonomous University of Sinaloa (UAS), Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico
- Performed over 2000 surgeries
- Talented orthopedic trauma surgeon certified by the Mexican Council of Orthopedics and Traumatology, AC
- Areas of expertise include techniques of fracture repair and joint replacement
Dr. Jesús Raúl Arjona Alcocer
10+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Knee Surgery, Hip Surgery, Shoulder Surgery
Education
Autonomous University of Yucatan
- Mexican board-certified orthopedic surgeon with expertise in joint reconstructive and Arthroscopy
- Treated over 17,000 patients and performed 3000+ procedures
- Associated with FEMECOT, AMECRA, ISAKOS , MTA , and Mexican Society of Hip Surgery
Dr. Martha Carolina Hernández
10+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic and Spine Surgery
Education
CDMX Health Secretariat
- Trusted orthopedic surgeon in Puebla
- Specialized in treating spinal diseases and arthritic conditions
- Mexican board-certified orthopedic surgeon with 10 years of experience
- Member of AMCICO
Check out these frequently asked questions. You might discover something relevant to you.
FAQs
A hip replacement surgery cost in Mexico ranges between $9,000 and $29,000. The lowest cost is $9,000 for a total hip replacement and $29,000 for a bilateral hip replacement.
Our associated hospitals in Mexico are well equipped to deal with complex surgeries. They have cutting-edge technology and onsite labs. They employ skilled staff ensuring the best results.
Further, these hospitals, have ISO-9002 certified operating rooms. They adhere to the highest level of safety standards. The quality of care provided at these Mexican hospitals aligns with the international norms.
Your concerns about getting surgery done away from your homeland are well understood. We urge you to ask us questions about things that concern you the most.
Further, we will provide all relevant information to the best of our knowledge. Additionally, we also urge you to check patient reviews and decide wisely.
You need to stay in or near the hospital for 1-2 days.[35] Your surgeon will let you know about the length of your stay. Once back home, we urge you to keep in touch with us.
The chance of your body rejecting the components/ implants is rare. The body tolerates the materials used in routine hip replacement surgery.
Hip replacements have been done for decades now. The success rate is 95% for 10 years and 80-85% for 20 years after surgery.[36]
Moreover, Mexican orthopedic surgeons carry out thorough evaluation to eliminate potential risks. Hence, they have a track record of performing thousands of successful surgeries.
Metal allergies rarely cause hip replacement failures.[37] We recommend you discuss with your surgeon if you are allergic and sensitive to metal.
The risk of infection after a hip replacement in Mexico is low. Less than 1 in 1000 patients need a revision for infection.[38]
Moreover, Mexican hospitals prioritize safety, reducing infection risks. They have ISO 9002-certified operating rooms.
Furthermore, they adhere to international safety standards. Therefore, the chances of infection are minimal for hip replacement surgery in Mexico.
Getting hip replacement in Mexico does not take long wait times as it does in Canada.This is one of the key reasons that people travel south to Mexico for hip replacement.
You will receive treatment at your convenience with our partner hospitals and surgeons in Mexico. All you need to do is simply contact us and we will help you through the process.
Conclusion
Getting your hip replacement surgery in Mexico has many cool perks. You'll get top-notch care without breaking the bank.
Plus, a nice vacation to treat yourself after the surgery! Feel the joy of moving with ease as we assist you in a future filled with fresh energy.
References
1. AAHKS: Total Joint Replacement: A Breakdown of Costs
2. Mexico News Daily: Doctors, nurses confront coronavirus—with long hours and low pay
3. 10 News: American students attend medical school in Mexico to save money
4. Scientific American: COVID’s Other Toll: Unnecessary Tests and Huge Hospital Bills
5. Lexology:The regulation of healthcare providers and professionals in Mexico
6. Cision: Over 160,000 Patients Across Canada are Waiting for Life-Changing, Restorative Orthopaedic Procedures
7. Healthcare.Com: Medical Travel Soars Past Pre-Pandemic Numbers
8. Newyork Post:1.2 million Americans visit Mexico for ‘medical tourism’ each year
9. International Living: Healthcare in Mexico: Overview of Costs and Plans Available
10. Healthline: Seniors in the United States Less Healthy Than in Other Countries
11. NIH: Hip Replacement Surgery
12. NCBI: Historical overview of hip arthroplasty: From humble beginnings to a high-tech future
13. Science Direct: Mechanical physical and wear properties of some oxide ceramics for hip joint application
14. Orthoinfo: Total Hip Replacement
15. WebMD: Hip Replacement Surgery: Is It Time?
16. Frontiers: Associations between smoking and clinical outcomes after total hip and knee arthroplasty
17. Orthoinfo: Obesity, Weight Loss, and Joint Replacement Surgery
18. Springer Nature: Do we really need a surgery for hip fractures in elderly patients?
19. Healthline: What Should I Expect from a Double Hip Replacement?
20. Orthoinfo: Hip Resurfacing
21. NCBI: The current role of robotics in total hip arthroplasty
22. Orthoinfo: Revision Total Hip Replacement
23. Global Data: Mexico Hip Replacement Procedures Count by Segments
24. AAHKS: How to Relieve Pain after Hip or Knee Surgery
25. AAHKS: Travel after Joint Replacement Surgery
26. Science Direct: The effect of patient age at intervention on risk of implant revision after total replacement of the hip or knee
27. NCBI: Metal hypersensitivity in total hip and knee arthroplasty
28. NIHR: Joint infection after hip replacement is linked to some risk factors that could be modified
29. Orthoinfo: Activities after top hip replacement
30. Expatistan: Cost of living in Mexico compared to United States