Complete Guide to Hip Replacement Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Hip replacement in Puerto Vallarta can help you eliminate the nagging hip pain. That too while saving 70% on cost! Read on to find out how this Mexican city offers a perfect blend of affordability and prime healthcare.
Doug from Canada on Getting Hip Replacement Experience in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Approximately 1.2 million travelers around the world visit Mexico for medical procedures which are costly in their countries or aren't covered by their insurance plans.[1]
PR Newswire
Puerto Vallarta: Stellar Choice for Hip Replacement Surgery!
You might be wondering if medical tourism is a good option. Isn't it better to stay home and get the surgery done at your local hospital? Not necessarily!
In contrast, here are some ways that medical tourism in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is better than local surgery.
Firstly, Puerto Vallarta is a hub of exceptional hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
The hospitals provide first-class health care, come decked with modern technology, and meet U.S. standards. To add on, the waiting time is far less than in the States or Canada.
Since you're paying so much less, it's normal to think overseas surgery is terrible. Maybe the doctors are unqualified, or the equipment is outdated.
But nothing could be further from the truth. Puerto Vallarta offers some of the best hip replacement surgeons in the world!
Many surgeons travel to complete their degrees because it's so close to the US. Furthermore, most of the hospital staff speak English.
In Mexico, medical care costs are less than half of what you might pay in the U.S. You should note that medical tourists in Mexico often save around 40- 65% on surgeries and procedures.[2]
Puerto Vallarta is known for its lush beaches, water sports, and nightlife. The city is also famous for its range of restaurants and bars.
All-Inclusive Cost of Hip Replacement in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (2023 Prices)
In the U.S., an all-inclusive hip replacement surgery can go as high as $44,000. Further, the clinical visits will cost another $200 to $300. On the contrary, hip replacement in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, costs $15,500.
You'll also need to pay an extra $100 for a consultation. If you're opting for bilateral total hip replacement, it'll cost $29,000 in Puerto Vallarta compared to $74,000 in the USA.
Thus, we can conclude that by traveling to Puerto Rico, you can save ~70% on hip replacement.
| Procedure | US | Puerto Vallarta | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Hip Replacement | $44,000 | $15,500 | 65% |
| Total Hip Replacement (Bilateral) | $74,000 | $29,000 | 54% |
| Revision Total Hip Replacement | $87,000 | $25,000 | 70% |
*Prices are subject to change.
Best Surgeon & Hospital for Hip Replacement in PVR, Mexico
Dr. Max Greig
Dr. Max Greig is one of the finest surgeons in Mexico for hip arthroplasty. With 25+ years of experience in the industry, he has treated many local and offshore patients. Let's learn more about him below.
Dr. Maximilian Greig
25+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
National University of Mexico
- Successfully completed several training sessions in Germany and USA.
- Member of Mexican Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon (CMOT), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
- Member of Mexican Federation of Orthopedics and Traumatology (AMOT), Mexican Association of Arthroscopic Surgeons (AMECRA)
- Member of Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA), American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS)
- Former Scholar of the German Academical Exchange Program
- German Fellowship in Joint Replacement and Shoulder Surgery at Uni-Klinik Muenster
- Sports Medicine visiting Fellowship at Edinburg, Texas
- Fluent in English, Spanish, and German
CMQ Hospital
Situated just a few blocks from Costco and Macro Plaza, this state-of-the-art hospital has served local and international patients for the last 40 years.
You can self-pay at the hospital using cash and credit cards.
It is part of CMQ Hospitals, one of the most trusted healthcare networks in Puerto Vallarta. The hospital's highly trained bilingual staff ensures excellence in patient care.
Hospital CMQ is the only hospital in Puerto Vallarta, Mexi
- 100+ Happy Patients
- 2008 Established
- 24/7 Emergency Care
- The hospital also has ICUs, an air and ground ambulance system, 24/7 medical services, the best orthopedic doctors, and trained bilingual staff.
- CMQ comes decked with primary & urgent care, preventive medicine, international patient services, and surgical care.
Dr. Max Greig Performing a Surgery
Room in CMQ Hospital
All About Hip Replacement Surgery
The below section will guide you on the types, procedures, recovery period, and other things related to the treatment.
Video Courtesy: TriStarHealth
What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is a health procedure for sharp hip pain. The hip joint comprises a ball at the top of the thigh bone (femur) and a socket in the hip bone (pelvis).[3]
Your surgeon will remove the damaged parts of your hip and replace them with bits usually made of ceramic, metal, and rigid plastic.[4]
Hip Replacement Procedure
Replacement of one or both components is possible. The artificial joint aims to remove pain and up your mobility. Most hip replacement surgeries are done using general anesthesia to prevent the patients from feeling any pain during the procedure.
Surgery
2 Hours
Recovery
3-6 Weeks
Complication
5.3%[5]
Hospital
2 Days
Hotel
10-14 Days
Durability
10-25 Years[6]
Three Different Ways to Get Your Hip Replaced
The three different approaches to getting your hip replaced are mentioned below:[7]
Anterior (Front)
Lateral (Side)
Posterior (Back)
Who Can Go for Hip Replacement Surgery?
Your doctor may recommend a hip replacement surgery for you if you have:
1. Osteoarthritis [8]
2. Rheumatoid arthritis
3. Tumor in the hip joint
4. Hip fracture or any other injury
5. Osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis)
Signs You Need a Hip Replacement Surgery
- Problems in walking or bending
- Restless sleep because of acute pain
- Difficulty in participating in activities you love
- Inability to do simple things like climbing stairs
Recovering from Hip Replacement Surgery
Total vs. Partial Hip Replacement Surgery
The primary difference between the two is that replacement of both the ball and socket happens during total hip replacement.
However, only the ball is replaced during partial hip replacement or hemiarthroplasty.[9]
Distinction Between Total Hip Replacement & Partial Hip Replacement
What Is Double Hip Replacement Surgery?
Some patients might have problems in both hips, and the surgeon may suggest they get both their hips replaced simultaneously.[10]
Most patients who opt for a double hip replacement are young, active, and more healthy to participate in the procedure.
Double Hip Replacement
Medical Vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Traveling to any new country can be an intimidating task. The below section will walk you through the critical information about Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Around The City
- The town lies on Mexico's Pacific coast.[11]
- The official currency is the Mexican Peso.
- Taxis are also affordable, and the minimum fare is around $2.[12] U.S. News
Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
"The minimum fare is usually around 40 to 70 pesos ($2.10 to $3.70) around town."
View in Article - This city is mainly known for its splendid-lush beaches and local resorts.[13]
- Best way to go around the city is by bus.[14] U.S. News
Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
"P.V. buses service the downtown area and the Hotel Zone, El Malecon, Zona Romantica, and Marina Vallarta, and they're the cheapest option for getting around."
View in Article One-way fare starts at ¢50. - The PVR airport is only 20 minutes from the city center. The airport connects well major American cities.
Visa and Passport Requirements
- Passport must be valid at the time of entry.
- A tourist visa is required for staying above 180 days.
- The currency restriction on entry and exit is $10,000.
Source: Travel.State.Gov
Puerto Vallarta: A Breathtaking Majestic Town
Tourist Attractions
Direct Flights from The USA To Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
| Origin Airport | Flight Duration | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix (PHX) | 2 hrs 32 min | 1172 miles |
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hrs 38 min | 1180 miles |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 3 hrs | 1543 miles |
| Dallas (DFW) | 2 hrs 48 min | 1260 miles |
Flights from the USA to Puerto Vallarta
Is Hip Replacement Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Safe?
The crisp answer is yes! In fact, Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest destinations in Mexico.[15] It is the second most traveled destination in Mexico.[16]
International tourists in Puerto Vallarta grew by 23.3% in July 2021 compared to 2019.[17]
Although the news makes Mexico sound scary, it isn't. It would be best if you take basic travel precautions, including:
- Researching the area you're staying in
- Only using a credible mode of transport
- Keeping important documents in your hotel safe
- Keeping a low profile and not flashing any valuables
Hip Replacement in Puerto Vallarta Patient Reviews
If you're wondering how previous patients felt after hip replacement surgery, here are some reviews.
Annel diaz, USHip replacement in PV
I highly recommend it.
I am very grateful for the medical care that my family and I received, highly trained staff, excellent services, first-class facilities,
Marvin Rodriguez, USOrthopaedic surgery in PV
Dr. Max Greig and his team are amazing!
They were very friendly and informative. He did really well communicating with me before the surgery and followed up with me afterward.
Eric Freeman, USOrthopedic Surgery in PV
I would like to thank Dr. Max’s staff!
Dr. Max a Genius Surgeon, cares about people & from the moment I spoke to and met him, I knew he would take the best care of me.
Conclusion
Hip replacement surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is affordable, and the waiting time isn't long. It also offers some of the best surgeons and hospitals decked with prime equipment.
Your pain-free future awaits! Contact us today. Our medical tourism consultants are here to guide you every step of the way!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Depending on the procedure, you can typically save around 60% to 70% on getting your hip replaced in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Hip replacement surgery takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. To add on, most patients will stay in the hospital for 2 days. Once you start using a walker, you can return to your hotel room.
But your surgeon will make daily visits for 10 to 14 days afterward to check on you and provide you with physiotherapy.
You'll be able to drive and do other day-to-day activities within 2-3 weeks. In the past, surgeons performed hip surgery using the posterior method followed by a long recovery road.
However, they have shifted to the anterior form, which only takes a few weeks to recover.
The key benefits of hip replacement in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico are:
- Better quality of life
- No pain during sleep
- Correction of deformity
- Increase in mobility and leg strength
- Provides the ability to indulge in day-to-day chores
References
- Cision PR Newswire: Medical Tourism Mexico: High Quality, Affordable Prices
- Vallarta Lifestyle: Quick Facts About Medical Tourism in Puerto Vallarta
- Physio Pedia: Hip Anatomy
- FDA: General Information about Hip Implants
- SpringerLink: Incidence and Complication Rates for Total Hip Arthroplasty in Rheumatoid Arthritis
- WebMD: Guide to Hip Replacement
- NCBI: Comparing the anterior, posterior, and lateral approach
- The Lancet: Hip replacement
- National Institute of Health Research: Outcomes similar for full or partial hip replacement after hip fracture
- Healthline: What Should I Expect from a Double Hip Replacement?
- Puerto Vallarta Net: Where is Puerto Vallarta Located?
- US News: Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
- Britannica: Puerto Vallarta
- Banderas News: Puerto Vallarta Among Top 10 Safest Cities in Mexico
- Vallarta Daily: Puerto Vallarta Breaks Tourism Record Above Pre-Pandemic Levels