Hip Replacement Costs Around the World: Affordable Medical Tourism Options

With the rising demand for affordable, high-quality medical care, medical tourism is becoming an increasingly popular option for hip replacement surgeries. The medical tourism market in Turkey is expected to reach over $10 billion by 2032, growing at a rate of about 14.5% annually. This growth reflects a rising trend in patients seeking affordable, high-quality medical care abroad. In the U.S., a hip arthroplasty can cost anywhere from $28,200 to $40,000, but in countries like Poland and Mexico, the same procedure can cost significantly less—$6,800 to $8,900 in Poland and $9,000 to $29,000 in Mexico. These countries have modern, well-equipped hospitals accredited by reputable organizations like the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Bookimed has prepared this article to help you explore affordable options worldwide.

Table of Contents:

• Why Choose Hip Arthroplasty Abroad?

• Hip Replacement Cost by Country

• What a Hip Joint Replacement Package Covers

• Guide to Getting Hip Prosthesis Surgery Abroad

• Where to Get Hip Replacement Abroad: Pros and Cons

• Hip Arthroplasty Abroad: Insurance and Financing

• Safety Guidelines for Hip Prosthesis Surgery Abroad

• Travel Tips for Hip Arthroplasty

• FAQs

Why Choose Hip Arthroplasty Abroad?

Patients tend to go for hip joint replacement overseas due to several key benefits:

Cost savings

In the U.S., the procedure costs $28,200–$40,000. In Poland, the price drops to $6,800–$8,900—saving up to about $33,000. In Mexico, costs range from $9,000–$29,000, which can mean savings of up to $19,000 while still receiving high-quality care.

Top surgeons and hospitals

Hospitals abroad are accredited by respected organizations such as the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). These organizations ensure that hospitals meet high standards for patient safety and care.

Shorter wait times

In countries like Turkey and Poland, waiting times for surgery are much shorter than in the U.S. or the UK, where it can take months to get a surgery date. In Turkey, for example, patients may only need to wait 7 to 14 days for a hip joint replacement after the initial consultation. This faster access helps patients receive relief from chronic pain sooner. 

Comfortable recovery

Recovering in destinations with pleasant climates, like Spain or Thailand, makes the healing process more comfortable. Many of these countries offer post-surgery rehabilitation in relaxing environments that aid faster recovery. 

All-inclusive packages

Most of these countries provide all-inclusive packages that cover surgery, accommodation, transportation, and post-operative care. 

Innovative treatment options

Overseas patients can access some of the most advanced hip joint replacement technologies, including 3D-printed titanium implants and robot-assisted surgical systems. 

📝Hearing from patients who have already undergone the procedure can help paint a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

Hip Replacement Cost by Country

The cost of hip implantation surgery can vary significantly depending on the country. Choosing to travel abroad for a hip joint replacement procedure can lead to substantial savings. Below is a breakdown of the typical costs for different types of surgery in various countries.

Procedure	Turkey	Mexico	Thailand	Spain	Poland	USA	UK	Australia
Hip replacement (general)	$8,000 – $12,000	$9,000 – $15,000	$12,000 – $14,000	$11,000 – $12,000	$10,000 – $12,000	$23,000 – $70,000+	$15,000 – $22,000	$13,000 – $20,000
Total hip replacement for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)	$11,000 – $15,000	$11,000 – $15,000	$13,000 – $16,000	$12,000 – $15,000	$12,000 – $15,000	$25,000 – $40,000	$17,000 – $25,000	$15,000 – $22,000
Total hip replacement (arthroplasty) revision	$12,000 – $18,000	$15,000 – $29,000	$14,000 – $19,000	$14,000 – $18,000	$13,000 – $18,000	$30,000 – $50,000	$20,000 – $30,000	$18,000 – $28,000
Revision hip arthroplasty	$13,000 – $20,000	$18,000 – $30,000	$16,000 – $22,000	$15,000 – $20,000	$14,000 – $20,000	$35,000 – $60,000	$22,000 – $35,000	$20,000 – $30,000

💰When one chooses to have hip endoprosthesis surgery abroad, they could save thousands of dollars while receiving high-quality care. For example:

• Turkey offers savings of up to $18,200, which is about 64% less than in the U.S., for a general hip reconstruction surgery.

• Poland offers savings of $17,200, about 61% less, without compromising on quality.

• In Mexico, you could save $9,200, and in Thailand, the savings could be $15,200—both offering massive reductions compared to U.S. prices.

What a Hip Joint Replacement Package Covers

🎁 All-inclusivehip reconstruction surgery packages offer a convenient and cost-effective solution for patients planning surgery abroad.

These bundles usually cover all the key services for one set price, helping patients avoid unexpected expenses and making the entire process smoother. Through Bookimed, it’s often possible to find special offers or lower prices than booking directly, making top-quality treatment easier to access.

What’s usually included	What to check
Hip replacement surgery	Sometimes excluded—may be part of promotional offers.
Specialist consultations (orthopedic surgeon, anesthesiologist, etc.)	Commonly included for 7–10 days; confirm details.
Pre-op tests (bloodwork, MRI, CT scans)	Some clinics may also add sightseeing or wellness extras.
Anesthesia (local or general)
In-hospital medications
Hospital stay (e.g., 5 days)
Transfers between the airport, hotel, and clinic
Post-surgery check-ups
Language assistance
Round-the-clock medical coordination and support

❕ Package terms can differ depending on the country, so it’s vital to double-check exactly what’s included with the clinic before booking.

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Guide to Getting Hip Prosthesis Surgery Abroad

Opting for hip endoprosthesis surgery abroad can save you money while offering high-quality care. Here’s how the process works with Bookimed:

Choosing a destination

Bookimed helps patients choose the best country for surgery, like Turkey, Mexico, Poland, or Thailand, known for offering significant savings (up to 60% less than in the U.S.) and accredited hospitals.

Consultation & pre-surgery

After selecting a destination, Bookimed arranges a virtual consultation with a surgeon, helping patients schedule medical tests and finalize surgery details.

Surgery & hospital stay

The surgery typically lasts 1-2 hours. Patients stay in the hospital for 2-3 days for recovery. Bookimed ensures smooth hospital admission, transport, and accommodation.

Post-op care & rehabilitation

Post-surgery, patients start physical therapy. Bookimed helps arrange rehab services and follow-up care, ensuring a smooth recovery process.

Returning home

Once cleared for travel, Bookimed helps arrange the follow-up care and ensures all medical records are transferred.

Where to Get Hip Replacement Abroad: Pros and Cons

Below is a detailed overview of the best countries for hip reconstruction. These countries are popular destinations for hip replacements for patients with a damaged hip joint.

Turkey

Cost: $8,000 – $12,000

In early 2024, Turkey hosted 801,723international patients, earning around $1.62 billion. This reflects the country’s increasing appeal for medical tourism. With an annual growth rate of 10.51%, the market could reach $3.48 billion by 2029.

Pros

• Affordable pricing. Hip replacement surgery in Turkey can cost up to 70% less than in the U.S.

• JCI-accredited hospitals ensuring international standards of care.

• Quick access. Surgery can be arranged within 7-14 days of consultation.

• Skilled surgeons. Surgeons are trained in Europe and the U.S., with expertise in advanced techniques such as robot-assisted surgery and 3D-printed implants.

Cons

• Language barriers. While Istanbul and Antalya offer English-speaking staff, rural areas may present communication challenges.

• Variable quality. Some hospitals may have different standards of care, so it’s essential to research. Bookimed works only with verified clinics.

Logistics

• Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) offer direct flights from around the world, making it convenient for international travelers.

You may find these clinics interesting:

Mexico

Cost: $9,000 – $15,000

Mexico draws 1.4  to 3 million medical tourists each year, with roughly 40–60% coming from the United States.

Pros

• Significant savings. Surgery in Mexico can be 50-70% cheaper than in the U.S..

• Many facilities are also certified by Temos International and Accreditation Canada, ensuring excellent quality of care.

• Quick scheduling. Surgeries are usually arranged within a few weeks.

• English-speaking staff. Common in major medical centers.

Cons

• Safety concerns. While cities like Tijuana and Cancun are generally safe, it’s essential to choose areas with established medical tourism reputations.

• Quality inconsistency. The quality of care can vary between hospitals, so research is necessary. The Bookimed medical coordinator is there to recommend a trustworthy clinic with real hip replacement surgery reviews.

Logistics

• Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) is just minutes from the U.S. border, offering easy access for U.S. patients.

• Cancun International Airport (CUN) offers numerous direct flights from the U.S. and Europe.

You may be intersted in these clinics:

Thailand

Cost: $12,000 – $14,000

Thailand remains a top destination, attracting 1.4 to 2 million international medical tourists each year.

Pros

• Medical tourism focus. Thailand has a highly developed medical tourism infrastructure, with hospitals specializing in international patients. This includes tailored services such as medical tourism coordinators, translation services, and customized treatment packages.

• Exceptional post-op care. Hospitals in Thailand offer comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation programs, with physiotherapy and outpatient services designed to ensure fast and effective recovery.

• Affordable luxury. Despite being an affordable destination, Thailand’s medical tourism centers offer luxurious hospital amenities and private patient rooms, which are uncommon in other countries providing low-cost surgery.

Cons

• Travel fatigue. The long flight time from the U.S. or Europe can be tiring, and jet lag might affect recovery post-surgery.

• Limited recovery facilities in rural areas. While major cities offer excellent rehabilitation, more rural areas may lack specialized rehabilitation centers.

Logistics

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok is the largest international hub with flights from major global cities. 

• Phuket International Airport (HKT) is a well-connected gateway for medical tourists heading to the southern part of the country.

You may find these clinics worth exploring:

Spain

Cost: $11,000 – $12,000

Spain’s medical tourism market is estimated at around USD 1.83 billion in 2025. It is projected to expand rapidly, reaching approximately USD 4.16 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 17.89% between 2025 and 2030.

Pros

• The EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive allows EU residents to seek treatment in Spain and receive reimbursement for part or all of their expenses. This can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for European patients.

• Spain is known for its specialization in joint replacement surgeries, including hip and knee replacements, and its hospitals follow the latest evidence-based practices.

• Comprehensive patient support. Spain offers comprehensive patient support services, including pre-surgery consultations, post-surgery rehabilitation, and mental health care during recovery.

• Recovery-friendly environment. Spain's pleasant climate and rich culture provide a peaceful environment for recovery, particularly in areas like Costa Brava and the Balearic Islands, where patients can recuperate in relaxing surroundings.

Cons

• Higher costs. Compared to Poland and Thailand, Spain’s medical services are more expensive, though still significantly lower than in the U.S. or the UK.

• Waiting times. Some hospitals may have longer waiting times for non-emergency surgeries, especially during peak seasons or in well-known centers.

Logistics

• Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) is the main gateway for international flights, with easy access to major hospitals in Madrid. 

• Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) also serves a high volume of international medical tourists.

These clinics may catch your eye:

Poland

Cost: $10,000 – $12,000

Over the past ten years, hip reconstruction surgery in Poland has risen by 127%, highlighting growing demand and surgical expertise. On average, Polish surgeons perform 12.7  procedures per year, demonstrating their experience.

Pros

• Cost-effective. Poland offers some of the lowest costs in Europe, with prices 50-60% lower than in the U.S. or Western Europe. 

• European standards. Hospitals in Poland adhere to rigorous European standards. 

• Efficient healthcare system. Patients often have surgery within days or weeks of diagnosis. In many EU countries, the wait can be several months or even a year.

• Recovery focus. Hospitals provide personalized rehabilitation programs, and patients benefit from physical therapy options that focus on joint mobility and muscle strength after surgery.

Cons

• Limited global recognition. While Poland offers excellent care, it may not have the same global reputation as countries like Spain or Thailand in medical tourism.

• Language barriers. While major cities like Warsaw and Krakow have English-speaking staff, some smaller regions might not, which could lead to communication challenges.

Logistics

• Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) is Poland’s largest airport, connecting to Western Europe, the U.S., and Asia. Kraków John Paul II Airport (KRK) also serves international flights and is ideal for patients seeking treatment in southern Poland.

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Hip Arthroplasty Abroad: Insurance and Financing

When planning hip replacement surgery abroad, it's essential to understand your insurance and financing options to manage costs effectively.

Insurance coverage for medical tourism

Regular health insurance often doesn’t cover procedures abroad. However, travel insurance providers like Allianz and Cigna cover 50-80% of surgery costs. For example, a $10,000 hip replacement in Turkey could be reimbursed up to $8,000. Insurance coverage may also apply to other medical treatments sought abroad, not just surgeries.

Medical tourism insurance from providers like Seven Corners and Global Protective Solutions can cover up to 100% of surgical costs, including complications. For instance, a $6,800 hip replacement in Poland may be fully covered.

Direct billing with insurers

Hospitals partnered with insurers such as Blue Cross Blue Shield may offer direct billing, eliminating the need for upfront payments and simplifying the process.

Financing options

Many hospitals offer installment plans to spread out payments over time. Additionally, personal loans and 0% APR credit cards from platforms like  LendingTree can help cover surgery costs upfront.

EU cross-border healthcare

For EU residents, the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive allows reimbursement for treatments in other EU countries, covering up to the cost of domestic care. For example, a German patient, who undergoes surgery in Poland may receive significant reimbursement.

💚With Bookimed, patients can save up to 70% on surgery costs abroad. They get access to flexible payment options and high-quality care.

Safety Guidelines for Hip Prosthesis Surgery Abroad

Choosing to undergo hip replacement surgery abroad is a big decision, and safety is a top priority. By doing your research and choosing the right hospital, qualified surgeons, and post-surgery care, you can feel confident in your treatment.

Hip replacement surgery is a proven procedure, showing 90–100% success within the first five years and 62–98% after ten years. It offers lasting pain relief and improved mobility.

Here are key safety tips to guide you:

Choose an accredited hospital

Look for hospitals with Joint Commission International (JCI) or ISO 9001 certification. These certifications ensure that the hospital meets high standards for patient safety, hygiene, and medical care. Hospitals with these credentials are regularly inspected and adhere to international best practices.

Check the surgeon's experience

Make sure your surgeon is a member of reputable professional bodies like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) or the European Hip Society (EHS). These memberships are a guarantee that the surgeons stay updated on the latest practices and techniques. Surgeons with training from prestigious institutions like Harvard Medical School or the Mayo Clinic typically have extensive experience with complex procedures, ensuring you’re in safe hands.

Pre-surgery evaluation

Before surgery, the hospital should conduct a thorough pre-operative assessment. This includes blood tests, imaging like X-rays or MRIs, and a review of your medical history. Many hospitals use advanced diagnostic tools, such as3D imaging, to get a clear and detailed understanding of your joint, ensuring the best surgical approach.

Post-operative care

Ensure the hospital provides comprehensive post-surgery care, including rehabilitation and pain management. Comprehensive post operative care is crucial for successful recovery and overall patient satisfaction after hip replacement surgery. Look for hospitals that use advanced technology such as robot-assisted surgery systems like ROBODOC, which ensures precise implant placement. Some hospitals also offer virtual rehabilitation tools. This helps patients recover faster and regain mobility at their own pace.

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Travel Tips for Hip Arthroplasty

To make your trip less stressful, it's a good idea to understand the ideal time to visit, the necessary documents, and tips for getting around. Below are some helpful travel tips to assist you throughout the process.

Country	Language	Best season to visit	Documents needed	Tips for smooth travel
Turkey	Turkish; English widely spoken in medical facilities	Spring (April–June) or Fall (September–November)	Passport, visa (if required), medical records, insurance details	Arrange airport transfers with your clinic. Learn basic Turkish phrases. Avoid peak summer heat.
Mexico	Spanish; English spoken in tourist areas and clinics	Winter (November–March) for cooler weather	Passport, medical visa (if required), medical documents	Plan your trip to avoid peak summer heat. Stay near the clinic to minimize travel stress. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases.
Thailand	Thai; English widely spoken in major hospitals	Winter (November–February) for cool weather	Passport, medical documents, insurance details	Book accommodations close to the clinic. Familiarize yourself with local transportation.
Poland	Polish; English widely spoken in clinics	Spring (April–June) or Fall (September–October)	Passport, medical records, insurance details	Pre-book accommodation near your clinic. Learn a few Polish phrases for ease of communication.
Spain	Spanish; English widely spoken in major cities	Spring (April–June) or Fall (September–October)	Passport, medical records, insurance details	Stay in cities like Barcelona or Madrid for top hospitals. Consider public transportation options for easy mobility.

❕ Pro tip. While spring and fall are recommended for comfortable weather, off-peak seasons can often provide lower travel and accommodation costs, along with quicker availability at clinics.

💚 For a smooth experience, consult with a Bookimed medical coordinator who will assist in planning the trip, ensuring patients have everything in place for their surgery and recovery.

FAQs

How long does hip replacement surgery take?

A regular hip replacement surgery typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Is there an alternative to hip replacement surgery?

Yes, you can pick the one that corresponds to the severity of your condition. Some of these include:

• Hip resurfacing. A less invasive surgery that involves capping the femoral head with a metal covering.

• Stem cell therapy. Experimental treatments for joint regeneration might delay the need for surgery in some cases.

• Physical therapy and medication. In the early stages of hip degeneration, conservative treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroid injections may help manage pain.

However, the aforementioned alternatives may not be suitable for patients with severe hip arthritis or any other lind of significant joint damage, for which hip replacement surgery remains the best option.

Can I fly after hip replacement surgery?

Most patients can fly 2 to 6 weeks after surgery, but always check with your surgeon first. It's important to take precautions, like wearing compression stockings, in order to reduce the risk of blood clots.

How much does hip replacement abroad cost?

Hip replacement price abroad typically ranges between $6,800 and $29,000, with Turkey ranging from $8,000 to $12,000, and Poland from $6,800 to $8,900. Hip replacement cost in Mexico varies from $9,000 to $29,000, Thailand from $12,000 to $14,000, and Spain from $11,000 to $12,000—all significantly cheaper than in the U.S., where prices can reach $23,000 to $70,000+.

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