Medically Reviewed By: Dr. David Warmflash (MD), Dr. Julia Osei (MBChB, MHS)
Your Guide to Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
Do you live with crippling joint pain but can't afford surgery back home? Orthopedic surgery in Mexico can be the salve you have been waiting for! Turn your life around at 65-80% less cost than in the US.
Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
Keep reading to know all about costs, clinics, surgeons, and different orthopedic procedures in Mexico.
Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico Reviews
Knee Replacement in Mexico Review
Hip Replacement in Mexico Review
Meniscus Repair in Mexico Review
Why Choose Mexico for Orthopedic Surgery?
The benefits of choosing Mexico for orthopedic surgery include:
- Affordable Prices: The cost of orthopedic surgery in Mexico is 65-80% less than in the US or Canada.
- Quick Appointments: Mexico offers easy & fast medical appointments, eliminating any waiting time.
- State-of-the-art Healthcare: Our hospitals have the latest technology and certified & experienced surgeons.
- Travel Convenience: Easily drive to Mexico's border cities or take a direct flight from any US city.
Did you know?
Mexico is the 7th most visited tourist destination in the world.[1]
Want to know more about the cost savings? Then scroll down!
Cost of Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
The cost of orthopedic surgery in Mexico is 65-80% less than in the US. Major surgeries such as total knee replacement in Mexico (for one knee) start at $9,500.
The same will cost you upwards of $50,000 in the US, leading to 80% savings. Similarly, a hip replacement in Mexico (for one hip) also costs $9,500.
In the US, however, you will have to spend around $44,000. So, you will end up saving 78% with the Mexico surgery cost!
The tables below give a detailed overview of the costs of various orthopedic procedures in Mexico vs US.
| Procedure | Mexico | US | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Knee Replacement* | $9,500 | $50,000 | 81% |
| Partial Knee Replacement* | $10,500 | $40,000 | 73% |
| Bilateral Knee Replacement** | $25,000 | $70,000 | 64% |
| Robotic Knee Replacement* | $11,000 | $50,000 | 78% |
| Knee Replacement Revision Surgery* | $25,000 | $70,000 | 64% |
| Knee Arthroscopy* | $3,500 | $30,000 | 88% |
| ACL Reconstruction* | $4,500 | $35,000 | 87% |
| PCL Reconstruction* | $4,500 | $31,000 | 85% |
| Meniscus Repair* | $3,500 | $30,000 | 88% |
| *One Knee **Both Knees | |||
*Mexico orthopedic prices are case-dependent & subject to change.
| Procedure | Mexico | US | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Hip Replacement* | $9,500 | $44,000 | 78% |
| Bilateral Hip Replacement** | $29,000 | $60,000 | 51% |
| Robotic Hip Replacement* | $11,000 | $27,600 | 60% |
| Hip Replacement Revision Surgery* | $25,000 | $87,000 | 71% |
| *One Hip *Both Hips | |||
*Mexico orthopedic prices are case-dependent & subject to change.
| Procedure | Mexico | US | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulder Arthroscopy | $5,500 | $31,650 | 82% |
| Shoulder Replacement | $11,000 | $52,000 | 78% |
| Dislocated Shoulder | $5,500 | $22,000 | 75% |
| Frozen Shoulder | $5,300 | $22,000 | 75% |
| Shoulder Labral Repair | $6,800 | $41,000 | 83% |
| Shoulder Stabilization | $6,800 | $20,700 | 67% |
| Rotator Cuff Repair | $5,300 | $25,000 | 78% |
| Biceps Tendon Repair | $4,000 | $21,000 | 80% |
| Clavicle Fracture (Broken Collarbone) Repair | $3,700 | $18,500 | 80% |
| Glenoid Fracture Repair | $5,500 | $22,000 | 75% |
*Mexico orthopedic prices are case-dependent & subject to change.
| Procedure | Mexico | US | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elbow Arthroscopy | $3,500 | $16,000 | 78% |
| Carpal Tunnel Release | $1,800 | $12,000 | 85% |
| Radius & Ulna Fracture | $3,500 | $16,000 | 78% |
| Arm Amputation | $5,900 | $60,000 | 90% |
| Arm Prosthesis | $7,000 | $80,000 | 91% |
| Procedure | Mexico | US | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ankle Arthroscopy | $3,500 | $10,000 | 65% |
| Achilles Tendon Reconstruction | $2,400 | $17,000 | 85% |
| Hallux Valgus Surgery | $3,500 | $12,000 | 70% |
| Ankle Fracture | $3,100 | $29,000 | 89% |
| Leg Amputation | $5,500 | $60,000 | 90% |
*Mexico orthopedic prices are case-dependent & subject to change.
We also have an all-inclusive orthopedic surgery package in Mexico, which includes:
- Physiotherapy
- Pre-operative tests
- Airport pick-up & drop-off
- Hospital & surgeon’s fee
- Hotel stay
- Anesthesia
- FDA-approved implants
- Post-operative medications
Orthopedic implant brand: Zimmer Biomet
Don't let arthritis dictate the course of your life anymore. But we know affordable prices are not the only thing on your mind.
It's only natural to wonder: Is it safe to get orthopedic surgery in Mexico? Find the answer to this question below by getting to know Mexico's surgeons & hospitals in detail!
Top Rated Orthopedic Surgeons in Mexico
MTC partners with some of the most skilled and experienced orthopedic surgeons in Mexico. Read all about their expertise & affiliations below!
Dr. Jesus Irineo Gallarzo Ramirez
20+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery
Education
Universidad Autonoma de Cd. Juarez
- Languages: Spanish & English
- Memberships: AAOS & CMOT
- Certifications: An International affiliate member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons in Rosemont, Illinois, USA
Dr. Maximilian Greig
25+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
National University of Mexico
- Memberships: AANA, AMECRA, & AMOT
- International Training: South Texas Orthopedic Surgery Center, German Academical Exchange Program (DAAD)
Dr. Hans Ruiz Serna
9+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery
Education
Autonomous University of Sinaloa (UAS), Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico
- Courses: Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) 2017, Master in Directive Management of Health Institutions (2018-2020)
Dr. Martha Carolina Hernández
10+ years
MD Orthopedics
Expertise
Orthopedic and Spine Surgery
Education
CDMX Health Secretariat
- Memberships: AO Spine Foundation, CMOT, AMCICO
- Courses: Webinar Minimally invasive spine surgery (May 2021), Advanced seminar AO Spine surgical challenges in the geriatric spine in CDMX (April 2018)
Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
Wondering which hospital to choose for your surgery in Mexico? Our partner hospitals in Mexico have all the resources that you get at a hospital in the US.
Read all about their facilities, services, & accreditations below!
The hospital offers various treatment options, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, bariatric surgery, and alternative cancer treatment services.
Over 100,000 people from 60+ nations have chosen it fo
- 60 Years of Excellence
- 100k Patients
- BBB Accreditated
- Founded 50+ years ago
- An on-site lab with imaging technology
- Private rooms with a companion bed, a private bathroom, & a TV with Netflix
Trusted globally and recognized by Mexican medical associations, Sani Medical ensures expert care with qualified doctors and high safety standards.
- 30+ Years of Excellence
- COFEPRIS Certified
- AMCPER Certified
- Strict safety standards
- Assistance with lodging provided
- Free shuttle services to and from the Yuma Airport
- Cash, credit cards, and personal & traveler’s checks accepted
Around 60% of its patients are from the US or are American nationals.
Many of the hospital's physicians are US-trained specialists recognized as top surgeons in northern Mexico, with over 30 years of surgical expertise.
With board-certified surgeons, advanced
- 20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
- GHC CERTIFIED
- ISO CERTIFIED
- Founded 20 years ago
- ISO 9001 accreditation
- A 20-minute drive from the airport
- 24-hour pharmacy & 24-hour consultations provided
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
- ISO 9001 accreditation
- 18-minute drive from the airport
- Open 24x7, with a pharmacy & lab on premises
- ISO 9001 accreditation
- A 14-minute drive from the airport
- Urgency consultation & night consultation provided
- Founded 40 years ago
- ISO 9001 accreditation
- 20-minute drive from the airport
- Comprehensive diagnostic unit, ICU, & emergency unit
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- ISO 9001, JCI, & ACI accreditations
- 15-minute drive from the airport
- Pharmacy, ICU, & emergency services
- ISO 9001 accreditation
- 31-minute drive from the airport
- 24-hour emergency services
- ISO 9001 accreditation
- 36-minute drive from the airport
- First hospital in Mexico to use AI in laparoscopic surgery
Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation is a US healthcare initiative that ensures the delivery of high-quality healthcare services.
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is a body that sets out the criteria for a quality management system.
Decided on a surgeon or hospital? Then don't delay seeking the treatment you deserve!
Orthopedic Procedures in Mexico
Various orthopedic surgeries are available in Mexico. Read about them below.
Knee Surgery in Mexico
Total Knee Replacement in Mexico
Total knee replacement is recommended to treat severe arthritis pain that:
- Hampers your daily activities
- Does not improve with nonsurgical treatment
Other indications include:
- Post-traumatic degenerative joint disease.
- Osteonecrosis or joint collapse with destroyed cartilage.
Knee Prosthesis in Mexico
The surgery replaces the damaged knee joint with an artificial prosthesis made of metal and/or plastic.
Most artificial knee joints can last for 10-15 years!
Source: Medline Plus[2]
Robotic Knee Replacement in Mexico
In a robotic knee replacement, the surgery is done with the assistance of a robotic arm.
This results in:
- Greater precision
- Better alignment of the new joint
- Increased survival of the knee implant
Robotic Knee Replacement
Source: NLM[3]
Knee Arthroscopy in Mexico
Knee arthroscopy allows the surgeon to view and treat the knee without making a large incision.
A small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the knee joint which displays images on a video monitor.
The surgeon uses those images to guide miniature surgical instruments inside the joint.
Arthroscopic surgery has the advantage of resulting in less pain, less joint stiffness and shorter recovery time.
Source: OrthoInfo[4]
ACL Reconstruction in Mexico
This surgery reconstructs a torn ACL ligament in the center of the knee.
The ACL connects your shinbone to your thighbone.
Not getting an ACL tear treated can make your knee unstable and increase the risk of a meniscus tear.
ACL Repair in Mexico
Source: Medline Plus[5]
PCL Reconstruction in Mexico
This surgery treats a tear in the PCL ligament found behind the ACL.
If you have persistent instability or pain due to a PCL tear, this surgery may benefit you.
It involves replacing the torn PCL. It is done with a tissue graft from another part of your body or a human donor.
PCL Repair in Mexico
Source: OrthoInfo[6]
Meniscus Repair in Mexico
The menisci are two rubbery discs located between the tibia and femur bones. They act as shock absorbers and cushion the knee joint.
Meniscus tear is a common injury, especially for athletes.
This surgery involves meniscal removal, repair, or reconstruction.
Meniscus Surgery in Mexico
Source: OrthoInfo[7]
Hip Surgery in Mexico
Total Hip Replacement in Mexico
A hip damaged by arthritis, fracture, or other conditions can be treated with hip replacement surgery.
The damaged bone & cartilage of the hip is replaced with a prosthetic implant.
The prosthesis is made of metal and plastic/ceramic.
Hip replacement surgery has been called the most successful surgery in all medicine.
Hip Arthroplasty in Mexico
Source: OrthoInfo[8]
Robotic Hip Replacement in Mexico
Robot-assisted hip replacement surgery reduces surgical errors and improves the accuracy of implant positioning.
It results in:
- Better precision
- Improved outcomes such as implant survivorship
Robotic Hip Arthroplasty in Mexico
Source: NLM[9]
Shoulder Surgery in Mexico
Total Shoulder Replacement in Mexico
Severe shoulder fractures, arthritis, or conditions of the shoulder can cause pain.
These can be treated with shoulder replacement surgery.
The surgery will replace the damaged parts of your shoulder with an artificial prosthesis.
Shoulder Replacement in Mexico
Source: OrthoInfo[10]
Rotator Cuff Repair in Mexico
Rotator cuff tendons are located above the head of your upper arm bone (humerus).
These tendons help with raising and rotating the arm.
In rotator cuff repair surgery, the torn tendon is re-attached to the head of the humerus.
Rotator Cuff
Source: OrthoInfo[11]
Biceps Tendon Repair in Mexico
Your biceps muscles are attached to your shoulder and elbow bones through the biceps tendons.
Tearing the biceps tendon can cause you to lose strength in your arm and pain when you move it.
Biceps tendon repair can re-attach the tendon to the bone with minimal incisions.
Biceps Tendon
Image Courtesy: OrthoInfo
Source: OrthoInfo[12]
Other Orthopedic Surgeries in Mexico
Carpal Tunnel Release in Mexico
Carpal tunnel release is a surgery to treat carpal tunnel syndrome.
The median nerve in the wrist goes through a narrow passage called the carpal tunnel.
The narrowness can cause this nerve to get pinched, which causes pain and weakness in the hand.
During this surgery, the surgeon cuts through the carpal ligament above the tunnel to make space for the nerve.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Source: Medline Plus[13]
Achilles Tendon Reconstruction in Mexico
The Achilles tendon links your heel to your calf muscles.
Achilles tendon rupture can cause many problems in instances like:
- Playing sports
- Gait disturbance
- Standing on tiptoes
- Maintaining weight balance
- Difficulty climbing up and down stairs
This surgery can treat the rupture by sewing the ends of the torn tendon together.
Achilles Tendon
Sources: Medline Plus[14] NLM[15]
Hallux Valgus Surgery in Mexico
Hallux Valgus, or bunion, is a painful deformity that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe.
It tends to occur more commonly in women than men due to tight shoes or heels.
If non-surgical treatment proves ineffective for you, surgery can help.
Hallux Valgus
Source: NLM[16]
Wondering how long you need to stay in Mexico for orthopedic surgery? Keep reading to find out!
Plan Your Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
The table below has the details of the hospitalization period and hotel stay required for various orthopedic procedures.
You can create your travel itinerary accordingly.
| Procedure | Hospital | Hotel |
|---|---|---|
| Total Knee Replacement | 2-3 days | 10 days |
| Total Hip Replacement | 2-4 days | 10 days |
| Shoulder Replacement | 2 days | 10 days |
| Knee Arthroscopy | 2 days | 5 days |
| Shoulder Arthroscopy | 1 day | 5-7 days |
| ACL Reconstruction | 1-2 days | 7 days |
| PCL Reconstruction | 1 day | 3-5 days |
| Meniscus Repair | 1-2 days | 7 days |
| Rotator Cuff Repair | 1-3 days | 5-7 days |
Next, let's figure out the travel logistics for Mexico.
Medical Tourism Hotspots for Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
Our partner hospitals are located in popular tourist spots and major cities in Mexico. Hotspot cities like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta have world-class medical tourism facilities in Mexico.
Ciudad Juárez is near El Paso, Texas and Tijuana is close to San Diego, California. Therefore patients take a quick trip from the US for orthopedic treatment across the border.
Wondering how to reach any of these cities? Let's find out!
How to Reach Mexico?
You can fly or drive to any Mexican city. Go through the tables below for drive and flight details.
Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico
- Nearest US airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- Distance from airport to Tijuana: 21 miles (38 mins drive)
| US City | Duration |
|---|---|
| San Diego | 30 min |
| Los Angeles | 2 hr 14 min |
| Las Vegas | 5 hr 19 min |
Orthopedic Surgery in Cancun, Mexico
- Orthopedic Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
| Origin | Duration |
|---|---|
| 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 |
Orthopedic Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
- Nearest airport: Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR)
| Origin | Duration |
|---|---|
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 26 min |
| Dallas (DFW) | 2 hr 38 min |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 3 hr |
| San Francisco (SFO) | 3 hr 46 min |
Orthopedic Surgery in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
- Nearest US airport: El Paso Airport (ELP)
- Distance from airport to Juarez: 13 miles (28 mins drive)
| 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 |
Orthopedic Surgery in Los Algodones, Mexico
- Nearest US airport: Yuma International Airport (YUM)
- Distance from airport to Algodones: 14 miles (24 mins)
| US City | Duration |
|---|---|
| Yuma, Arizona | 20 min |
| Phoenix, Arizona | 3 hr |
| Los Angeles, California | 4 hr 30 min |
Orthopedic Surgery in Mexicali, Mexico
- Nearest US airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- Distance from airport to Mexicali: 128 miles (2 hr 11 min drive)
| US City | Duration |
|---|---|
| Yuma, Arizona | 1 hr 10 min |
| Phoenix, Arizona | 3 hr 54 min |
| Los Angeles, California | 3 hr 51 min |
Orthopedic Surgery in Puebla, Mexico
- Nearest airport: Puebla International Airport (PBC)
| Origin | Duration | Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 14 min | Non-stop |
| Atlanta (ATL) | 5 hr 38 min | 1 |
| Chicago (ORD) | 5 hr 53 min | 1 |
| Dallas (DFW) | 6 hr 10 min | 1 |
Documents Required for Driving to Mexico
In order to drive across the US-Mexico border, you need:
- Valid passport
- FMM entry permit issued by INM
- Proof of vehicle registration & Mexican tourist auto insurance
Sources: US Dept of State[17], Forbes[18]
Still curious about something? Maybe the FAQs below can help!
FAQs
The cost of orthopedic surgery in Mexico is 60-80% less expensive than in the US. Costs start as low as $1,800 for carpal tunnel release and don’t cross $29,000 for bilateral hip replacement.
In the US, on the other hand, orthopedic surgery prices can go up to $87,000!
Mexico costs are also inclusive of:
- Physiotherapy
- Pre-operative tests
- Airport pick-up & drop-off
- Hospital & surgeon’s fee
- Hotel stay
- Anesthesia
- FDA-approved implants
- Post-operative medications
Yes, it is 80% cheaper to have joint surgery in Mexico than in the US. For example, knee joint replacement in Mexico (one knee) costs $9,500 but goes up to $50,000 in the US.
Similarly, hip joint replacement in Mexico (one hip) also costs $9,500 but $44,000 in the US. Robotic joint replacement in Mexico (one knee/hip) also costs just $11,000.
In the US, however, you will have to shell out about $50,000 for it.
Knee surgery cost in Mexico starts at $3,500. So, you can save up to 80%. For example, knee arthroscopy in Mexico (one knee) costs just $3,500, whereas you will have to spend over $30,000 in the US.
You can get ACL surgery in Mexico (one knee) for just $4,500 but it will cost you $35,000 in the US. So, you can save up to 80% in Mexico compared to prices in the US!
The cost of meniscus surgery in Mexico (one knee) is $3,500. In the US, it will cost you around $30,000. This means it is 88% less expensive in Mexico!
It can be safe to go to Mexico for orthopedic surgery if you do your research and choose top-rated surgeons.
Our partner surgeons in Mexico are as good as American surgeons as they have:
- 30+ years of experience
- International training from the US & Germany
- Certifications from AAOS, AANA, ISAKOS, AMECRA, AMOT, & FEMECOT
Our partner hospitals have all the amenities you require, and they also have ISO 9001 accreditation.
Final Word
Orthopedic surgery in Mexico can change your life by improving your health and quality of life. No need to fret over not having insurance coverage in your home country anymore.
Get safe and 60-80% less expensive orthopedic treatment in Mexico instead!
References
1. World Tourism Organization: International Tourism Highlights, 2019 Edition
2. Medline Plus: Knee joint replacement
3. NLM: Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
4. OrthoInfo: Knee Arthroscopy
5. Medline Plus: ACL reconstruction
6. OrthoInfo: Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injuries
7. OrthoInfo: Meniscus Tears
8. OrthoInfo: Total Hip Replacement
9. NLM: The current role of robotics in total hip arthroplasty
10. OrthoInfo: Shoulder Joint Replacement
11. OrthoInfo: Rotator Cuff Tears
12. OrthoInfo: Biceps Tendon Tear at the Shoulder
13. Medline Plus: Carpal Tunnel Release
14. Medline Plus: Achilles Tendon Repair
15. NLM: Achilles tendon reconstruction with a half-width . . .
16. NLM: Hallux Valgus
17. US Dept of State: Crossing the U.S. – Mexico Border by Land
18. Forbes: How To Buy Car Insurance For Mexico