The global knee replacement market was valued at $9.83 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $14.63 billion by 2032. As demand grows, many patients choose to have knee surgery abroad — where the same procedure costs up to 80% less than in the US. Countries like Turkey, Poland, Thailand, and South Korea offer modern, high-quality care for as low as $3,000, performed in internationally accredited hospitals. Leading clinics hold Joint Commission International (JCI), ISO 9001, or European Union medical safety certifications. This Bookimed guide walks you through the best places, packages, and what to expect — so you can walk pain-free again without financial stress. Let's look for the best place for knee replacement surgery together.
Key Takeaways:
💰 Save up to 80% — Pay $3,000–$9,000 abroad vs. $30,000–$75,000 in the US.
Turkey: $3,000–$9,000;
Poland: $4,000–$11,500;
Thailand: $6,500–$7,500;
South Korea: $7,000–$18,000;
⏱️ Faster access — 1–2 weeks wait abroad vs. months at home.
🏥 Trusted clinics — accredited by JCI, ISO 9001, or KAHF.
📦 Packages include surgery, implant, hospital stay, hotel, transfers, and tests.
🤖 Modern care — robot-assisted surgery and top implants like Zimmer Biomet.
Table of Contents:
What is Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement surgery (also called knee arthroplasty) is a medical procedure where damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic (these metal and plastic components are used to cover and replace the damaged surfaces of the knee joint).
🙌 Imagine a knee like a hinge on a door. Moving the door smoothly is hard when the hinge gets rusty or damaged. In knee replacement surgery, worn-out parts of the knee are replaced—just like fixing the hinge—so movement becomes smooth and pain-free again!
👉This treatment is often recommended for people with severe arthritis, chronic knee pain, joint cartilage damage, or a severe knee injury that limits mobility and quality of life.
✅ These surgeries are designed to reduce pain, improve movement, and restore normal function in the joint.
A large 2024 study with 1,852 patients showed that anxiety and depression usually improve after total knee replacement surgery. The number of patients with no signs of anxiety or depression went up from 62.2% before surgery to 77.1% three months later. This study focused on patients who underwent total knee replacements.
Knee replacement is the only solution for many patients after years of discomfort and limited activity. The surgical procedure is performed by highly skilled knee surgeons using advanced surgical techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Types of knee replacement
| Type of procedure | Description |
|---|---|
| Knee replacement (general) | A broad term for surgeries that replace damaged knee joint parts with metal and plastic components. |
| Unicompartmental (partial) | Replaces only one section of the knee. Minimally invasive surgery, resulting in less tissue damage and quicker recovery. |
| Total knee replacement (arthroplasty) | Replaces the entire knee joint with artificial components, including plastic components to restore function. |
| Revision knee arthroplasty | A follow-up surgery to fix or replace a previous knee implant. |
| Knee arthroplastic procedures | A general term for surgical techniques that reshape or rebuild the joint. |
| Stem cell therapy * | Non-surgical alternative for early to moderate arthritis using fat or bone marrow stem cells to reduce inflammation and support cartilage repair. Quicker recovery; results last up to 2 years. Not effective for severe damage and rarely covered by insurance. |
Why Consider Knee Arthroplasty Abroad?
Thousands of patients choose to have their knee replacement surgery abroad each year. For example, Turkey receives over 2 million international patients annually, with knee surgery being one of the most requested orthopedic procedures. Many medical tourists choose these destinations for their advanced medical facilities and high quality medical care.
👉 Here’s why countries like Turkey, Thailand, South Korea, and Poland are considered among the best countries for knee surgery:
Lower cost. A total knee replacement costs $30,000–$75,000 in the US but starts from $4,500 in Turkey or Poland — up to 80% cheaper, even with travel. These countries are an attractive option due to their affordable cost and cost effective packages compared to other countries.
Short waiting periods. In the UK or Canada, the average wait time for knee replacement can be 3–12 months. Clinics abroad often offer surgery within 1–2 weeks, which is a game-changer for people with chronic knee pain.
Experienced orthopedic surgeons. Foreign doctors are internationally trained and members of respected bodies like the International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery, and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine (ISAKOS) and theEuropean Knee Society (EKS). Experienced surgeons and exceptional patient care are key reasons these countries are a preferred destination for knee surgery.
Accredited, high-performing hospitals. Leading hospitals in these countries are certified by Joint Commission International (JCI) or have ISO 9001 standards in place. This means they meet global benchmarks for patient safety.
Support for international patients. Clinics have translation, airport pickup, and transfer services.
Use of modern techniques and tools. Modern techniques and tools are widely used — including robot-assisted surgery, 3D knee mapping, and minimally invasive methods. Clinics are equipped with the latest technology and modern technology to ensure optimal outcomes.
Recent studies have shown excellent results for total knee replacement (TKA). The U2 Knee system, for example, has a 97.8% prosthesis survival rate at 5 years.
How Much Can You Save on Knee Replacement?
The price is one of the biggest reasons people choose knee replacement surgery abroad. The same high-quality treatment costs 5 to 10 times less than in others, so patients choose to travel for care.
Let's look at some real examples 👇
In Turkey, a total knee replacement starts at around $3,000. In the US, the same procedure can cost up to $75,000. That's a $70,000 difference — or about 8 times cheaper.
In Poland, surgery usually costs between $4,000 and $15,000. That's around 2–3 times less than in the UK, where it can go up to $19,000.
In Thailand, prices start from $6,500. That's similar to what you'd pay in Australia — but without the long waitlists and with more personalized care.
South Korea is a bit more expensive, with prices from $7,000, but more than half the price of top US hospitals. And you get access to some of the world's most advanced surgical techniques.
| Procedure | Turkey | Thailand | South Korea | Poland | United States | United Kingdom | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knee replacement (general/average) | $3,000 – $12,000 | $6,500 – $7,500 | $10,000 – $18,000 | $4,000 – $9,000 | $30,000 – $75,000 | $13,800 – $19,000 | $16,000 – $23,000 |
| Unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement | $3,000 – $6,000 | $5,500 – $8,000 | $7,000 – $15,000 | $4,000 – $7,000 | $20,000 – $35,000 | $11,400 – $15,200 | $8,000 – $9,000 |
| Total knee replacement (arthroplasty) | $4,000 – $14,250 | $6,500 – $7,500 | $10,000 – $18,000 | $5,000 – $11,500 | $30,000 – $112,000 | $13,800 – $19,000 | $16,000 – $23,000 |
| Revision knee arthroplasty | $6,000 – $12,000 | $10,000 – $15,000 | $12,000 – $20,000 | $8,000 – $15,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 | $22,800 – $29,000 | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Knee arthroplasty (general term) | $3,150 – $10,000 | $6,500 – $7,500 | $10,000 – $18,000 | $5,000 – $11,500 | $30,000 – $75,000 | $13,800 – $19,000 | $16,000 – $23,000 |
*Prices are estimates based on Bookimed's research and worldwide trends. Actual costs may differ by clinic and over time.
✅ Even after adding flights, hotels, and meals, most patients save thousands of dollars.
Why is it cheaper?
Lower salaries, rent, and equipment costs.
Government-supported medical tourism.
High-volume clinics with streamlined care.
What's Included in Knee Prosthesis Packages
Most knee replacement abroad packages cover the essentials — surgery, implant, hospital stay, and doctor consultations. But each country has its approach to what's bundled in.
💚 Bookimed offers all-inclusive packages from partner clinics that often include more services than standard direct bookings. Patients frequently save more by booking through Bookimed — with access to exclusive, limited-time deals and personalized assistance at no extra cost.
Turkey offers full-service packages with surgery, implants, hotels, transfers, and sometimes flights. Great for hands-off planning.
Poland focuses on quality care with full diagnostics, rehab sessions, and hotel stays. Transfers may vary.
Thailand includes high-standard surgery and hospital stays, but extras like transport or rehab are often separate.
South Korea delivers advanced surgery (robotics included), but packages are more medical-focused — you may need to arrange travel and rehab separately.
- Dr. Olcay Guler has been an orthopedics and traumatology specialist at Memorial Şişli Hospital since 2020.
- Memorial Şişli Hospital is the 1st in Turkey and 21st globally accredited by JCI.
- Included Services: Consultation with a doctor, preoperative tests, follow-up examination, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 3 days stay in the hospital, 7 days stay in the hotel (accommodation not included in the price).
- Technique: Bilateral Knee Replacement (Both Knees Replacement).
- Dr. Ireneusz Babiak achieved a postdoctoral degree and specializes in knee replacements and joint infections.
- Carolina Medical Center is a FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence and a partner of the Polish Olympic Committee.
- Included Services: Consultation with a surgeon, consultation with an anesthesiologist, preoperative tests, panoramic X-ray, MRI of one area, general anesthesia, medications, consumable materials, follow-up examination, individual patient room.
- Stay Info: 4 days stay in the hospital, no hotel stay included.
- Implant Type: Zimmer Biomet knee implant.
- Dr. Mustafa Kurklu has 72 scientific publications in orthopedics and traumatology.
- Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital specializes in advanced orthopedic procedures including robotic surgeries.
- Included Services: Consultation with a doctor, preoperative tests, follow-up examination, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 2 days stay in the hospital, 7 days stay in the hotel (not included in the price).
- Technique: Mako-plasty robotic surgery.
- Dr. Abdulaziz Temiz is renowned for his expertise in robotic joint replacement systems.
- Turan Turan Health Group specializes in innovative orthopedic treatments using advanced robotic technology.
- Included Services: Chest X-ray, panoramic X-ray, MRI, CT, ECG, blood tests, anesthesia, consultations, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 5 days in the hospital, 10 days in a hotel, included in the price.
- Technique: Smith & Nephew technology utilized for osteoarthritis procedures.
- Dr. Erden Erturer is recognized for his expertise in orthopedic traumatology and knee replacement surgery.
- LIV Hospital uses MAKOplasty for precise and minimally invasive knee replacement procedures.
- Included Services: Transfer airport-hotel-clinic-airport.
- Stay Info: 5 days in the hospital, 7 days in the hotel (not included in price).
- Technique: MAKOplasty Robotic Surgery, Stryker knee replacement.
| Usually included | May require confirmation |
|---|---|
| Knee replacement surgery. Type or brand of implant used. | Implant (e.g., Zimmer Biomet). If implant cost is separate. |
| Standard preoperative tests (blood tests, ECG, X-rays). | Advanced imaging like MRI, stress tests, and spirometry. |
| Consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. | Additional consultations (e.g., cardiologist, nutritionist). |
| General anesthesia. | Special anesthetic techniques or sedation requests. |
| 2–4 nights of hospital stay. | Cost for extra nights or early discharge. |
| Nursing care and medications during the stay. | Take-home medications or long-term pain relief. |
| Meals during hospitalization. | Special dietary requirements. |
| Translation services. | Full-time interpreter or additional languages. |
| 24/7 assistance and medical coordination. | Emergency medical coverage abroad. |
| Airport–clinic transfers. | Hotel transfers or city transport. |
| Hotel accommodation (in some countries like Poland and Turkey). | Accommodation in Thailand or South Korea. |
| Post-operative rehabilitation (often included in Poland). | Physiotherapy sessions after discharge. |
| Basic surgical supplies and operating room fees. | Robotic or advanced surgical technologies. |
| Medical travel support (e.g., flight booking help). | Actual airfare (rarely included). |
Best Places to Get Knee Reconstruction
Choosing the best country for knee replacement surgery depends on priorities like budget, wait time, rehab options, and the level of medical technology.
Picking the best country for knee surgery also means exploring advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Turkey
Pros
Turkey is thecheapest country for knee replacement. Total knee replacement costs $3,000–$9,000. This is up to 90% less than in the US ($30,000–$75,000), 65–80% less than in the U.K. ($13,800–$19,000), and 75–85% less than in Australia ($16,000–$23,000).
The average surgery scheduling time is 5–12 days from booking, compared to 8–20 weeks in the UK NHS system and 2–6 months in Australian public hospitals.
Facilities are certified byJoint Commission International (JCI), ensuring compliance with global standards.
Over 70% of packages offered by clinics include transfers, hospital stays, and diagnostics.
Cons
Rehab and physiotherapy are usually not bundled — patients must arrange them separately.
The implant type isn't always specified, so request the product name and certification (e.g., Zimmer Biomet, Smith & Nephew).
These clinics may interest you:
- Annually, Memorial Şişli Hospital serves 1,600,000 patients, including 15,000 international patients from 92 countries.
- Memorial Şişli Hospital is part of a group that was the first in Turkey to be accredited by JCI, attesting to its compliance with global healthcare quality standards.
- The hospital is integrated into a network recognized by US News & World Report as the top choice for American patients seeking treatment abroad.
- Hospital's location in Istanbul's European part offers accessibility, being only 28 km from Istanbul Ataturk International Airport.
- Memorial Şişli Hospital's International Department provides dedicated assistance to international patients at every step of their medical journey.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Knee replacement | $11000 |
- Specializes in knee joint replacement, offering high-quality orthopedic procedures and treatments.
- Arthroscopy Center enables minimally invasive knee surgeries with faster recovery times.
- Patients can stand up the day after arthroscopic knee procedures, enhancing mobility.
- Personal coordinators assist international patients with treatment steps, transfers, and interpretation.
- Located only 5 minutes from Istanbul Ataturk International Airport, ensuring easy access.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Knee replacement | $13000 - $14000 |
Learn more about the clinic below:
Poland
Pros
Total knee replacement costs $4,000–$11,500, which is 60–75% cheaper than the US.
Rehab-focused recovery. Poland is one of the few destinations where physical therapy begins during hospitalization and continues daily post-discharge, often covered in the initial package.
High surgical volume & expertise. Surgeons commonly perform 200+ knee replacements annually, with some leading specialists exceeding 6,000 procedures in their careers. Facilities follow EU patient safety regulations.
Visa-free or easy travel for EU/UK/US patients. Schengen access and quick flight connections make Poland ideal for patients from the U.K., Ireland, Germany, and Scandinavia.
Cons
Rehab adds 5–10 days to trip length.
Most clinics are in smaller cities — patients may need transfers from Warsaw or Krakow.
Some extras (meals, outpatient meds) are not bundled — ask for a full breakdown.
Here are some clinics that might interest you:
- Over 4,500 orthopedic surgeries performed, demonstrating significant experience in knee and hip joint replacement.
- Joint replacement procedures utilize Zimmer Biomet implants from the USA, ensuring high-quality materials for surgery.
- Comprehensive programs for international patients include surgery, diagnostics, hospitalization, accommodation, physiotherapy, airport transfers, and coordinator assistance.
- Each year, KCM Clinic welcomes 700 patients from abroad, indicating its strong international patient services and reputation.
- Accredited by the International Organization for Standardization and the Polish Association of Medical Tourism, confirming adherence to high standards.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Knee replacement | $9200 - $9900 |
Carolina Medical Center is a private hospital located in Warsaw, Poland, specializing in neurosurgery, orthopedics, and rehabilitation. With extensive experience in sports medicine, the clinic was selected by UEFA for medical care of EURO 2012 participants. It has been certified by international organizations such as FIFA, Quality Management Certificate (ISO9001:2015), and European Bone and Joint Infection Society (EBJIS). Carolina Medical Center is well-known for its unique method of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in children, and serves both adults and children from the CIS, Europe & Commonwealth.
Patients have praised the clinic for its professional approach and excellent service, with Dr Lesya Turuk and Dr Ireneusz Babiak being particularly mentioned. Dr Babiak specializes in knee replacements and offers a Knee Replacement package. He is a lecturer at training courses and has experience in working and training in clinical hospitals in Poland, Germany, Switzerland, and Sweden.
For those looking for a Knee replacement in Poland, Carolina Medical Center is a great option, with highly experienced doctors and excellent reviews.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Knee replacement | $9510.89 - $10021.24 |
Check out more about the clinic:
:
Thailand
Pros
Ideal for long-haul travelers. For patients from Australia or the Middle East, Thailand offers regional convenience and shorter visa wait times compared to Europe or Korea.
Cultural comfort for long stays. With on-site Buddhist chapels, vegetarian menus, spa services, and gardens, hospitals in Bangkok and Phuket create a stress-reducing, culturally immersive healing environment.
Thailand ranks #6 for healthcare system performance.
English-proficient staff trained abroad. Many orthopedic surgeons and nurses are educated in the US, U.K., or Japan, and international departments are fluent in medical English.
Hospital-hotel hybrids. Several facilities offer "medical hotels" — hospital-grade rooms with hotel-level service, especially valued by patients recovering solo or traveling with family.
Cons
Most packages exclude transfers, hotel, and rehab — which must be arranged separately.
Pre-op consultations (~$200–$400) are often not bundled.
Suggested clinics for you:
➜ No. 1 hospital in Thailand
Bumrungrad is a globally recognized medical facility. Over 500,000 international patients trust their health to Bumrungrad doctors.
➜ New technologies
Bumrungrad is one of a few medical facilities for the knee replacement in Thailand applying MAKOplasty, the robotic-arm orthopedic system. It is a minimally invasive surgery that speeds up healing process and reduces recovery period.
➜ 90% of success rates
Patients can walk in 24 hours after the knee replacement surgery.
➜ World-class medical services
The healthcare quality is confirmed by JCI (Joint Commission International) Clinical Care Program Certification of Knee Replacement.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Knee replacement | $12140 - $25500 |
- Internationally recognized for excellence, Sikarin Hospital is accredited by the Institute of Hospital Quality Improvement and Accreditation.
- Specializing in knee replacements, the hospital utilizes a computer navigation system ensuring precise implant positioning.
- Patients benefit from hypoallergenic metal and plastic endoprosthesis for improved comfort and joint functionality.
- Comprehensive care includes pre-surgery diagnostics, the surgical procedure, and post-operative rehabilitation over 3-4 weeks.
- Designed to cater to international patients, Sikarin Hospital provides complimentary airport transfers and language assistance services.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
South Korea
Pros
Cleanliness and infection control. South Korea reports some of the lowest surgical site infection rates in the OECD Health Statistics (OECD).
Seamless urban infrastructure. Clinics are located in Seoul's medical zones near airports and public transport. This reduces travel fatigue and simplifies logistics for short-stay patients.
Robotic surgery as a national standard. South Korea was one of the first countries in Asia to adopt robotic joint replacement systems (e.g., MAKO, ROSA) widely — not just in premium hospitals. Even non-specialty hospitals often offer robot-assisted TKR at mid-range prices.
Rapid return-to-function protocols. South Korean orthopedic programs often focus on "enhanced recovery" models — walking typically begins within 24 hours post-surgery with a therapist.
Cons
Rehab and hotel are usually not included — must be arranged separately.
Some hospitals require advance documentation and pre-travel screening.
Some clinics offer only partial English support — consider a translator if needed.
Recommended clinics you might like:
- Recognized by Newsweek as one of the World's Best Hospitals in 2021 and 2022, and as one of the World's Best Smart Hospitals in 2023.
- Provides comprehensive care with 2,000 hospital beds dedicated to patient recovery and comfort.
- Annually, over 40,000 operations are performed, showcasing extensive surgical experience.
- Certified by the Korean Institute for Healthcare Accreditation, ensuring high-quality medical standards.
- Supports a large number of patients with 660,000 individuals successfully completing their treatment each year.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
- Recognized by Global Healthcare Accreditation Program, demonstrating adherence to international standards in healthcare.
- Annually, the Orthopedic Surgery Department treats 60,000 outpatients and 35,000 inpatients, showcasing extensive patient care experience.
- Equipped with the BESTcare system, the hospital prioritizes treatment safety and effectiveness, especially for procedures like Knee replacement.
- Each year, over 3,000 orthopedic surgeries are performed, including Knee replacements, indicating a high level of surgical activity and expertise.
- Selected as one of World's Best Smart Hospitals 2023 by Newsweek, reflecting the hospital's commitment to using smart technology for patient care.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Knee replacement | $15000 - $16000 |
💚 Bookimed can help compare verified clinics, clarify package contents, and get access to exclusive discounts not available when booking directly.
Finding the Right Knee Implant Center
Picking the right place for knee surgery abroad can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. What matters most is finding a trusted doctor, a clinic with proper standards, and a treatment that actually fits your condition.
The best hospitals often feature advanced medical facilities, modern facilities, and dedicated international patient departments, ensuring exceptional patient care throughout your experience.
👉This guide will help you make a smart and safe choice when looking for the best place to have knee replacement surgery
✅ Look for verified clinic accreditation
Choose clinics certified by:
– Joint Commission International (JCI) – global safety standards.
– International Organization for Standardization (ISO 9001) – EU quality.
– Korea Accreditation Program for Hospitals Serving Foreign Patients (KAHF).
💡Always verify accreditation on official websites.
✅ Check surgeon's experience, memberships & education
In order to find out who is the best doctor for knee replacement surgery look for:
– 1,000+ knee surgeries; 2,000+ for complex or revision cases
– Memberships in professional bodies like:
- EFORT – European Federation of National Associations of Orthopaedics and Traumatology;
- AAOS – American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons;
- KSSTA – Korean Society of Sports Medicine & Arthroscopy.
💡Ask for a detailed surgeon CV if it's not listed online.
✅ Confirm all surgery types offered
✅ Clarify what's included in the package
✅ Confirm International Patient Services
Ask if the clinic offers:
✔️ English-speaking coordinator.
✔️ Help with flights, visas, and hotel booking.
✔️ Translated records and telemedicine follow-up.
How to determine the best place to get knee replacement surgery?
👉 According to Bookimed, these are the best clinics for orthopedic surgery:
💚 How does Bookimed know which facility is the best hospital for knee replacement? Bookimed ranks orthopedic clinics using clear criteria like patient satisfaction, surgery success rates, surgeon expertise, and advanced medical technology. This ensures patients can make confident, informed decisions. Learn more in our Clinic Ranking Policy.
| Clinic | Location | Rating⭐ |
|---|---|---|
| Memorial Şişli Hospital | Istanbul, Turkey | 4.6/5 |
| Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital | Istanbul, Turkey | 4.6/5 |
| KCM Clinic | Jelenia Góra, Poland | 4.2/5 |
| Carolina Hospital | Warsaw, Poland | 4.7/5 |
| Bumrungrad International Hospital | Bangkok, Thailand | 4.5/5 |
| Sikarin Hospital | Bangkok, Thailand | 4.7/5 |
| Severance Hospital | Seoul, Republic of Korea | 4.5/5 |
| Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH) | Seoul, Republic of Korea | 4.8/5 |
💡Patient reviews help paint a clearer picture of what to expect.
Knee Surgery Insurance Overseas
If you're planning your first medical trip, you might wonder: "Will my insurance cover surgery abroad?". In most cases, the answer is no — but there are other options that can still help you protect your health and your wallet.
In most Western countries, public health systems and standard private insurance do not cover elective surgery abroad — even if it's much cheaper.
Medicare (US). It won't cover surgery outside the US.
NHS (UK). Covers only emergencies abroad, not planned care.
Private insurance. May reimburse a portion of costs if your plan includes "out-of-network" coverage — but this must usually be pre-approved.
👉 How do patients commonly pay for knee replacement abroad?
| Method | What It offers |
|---|---|
| All-inclusive packages | Bookimed offers verified clinic bundles including surgery, hospital stay, hotel, transfers, and 24/7 support — often 20–60% cheaper than at home. |
| Out-of-pocket payment | Most patients pay directly. Prices abroad start at $3,000, often cheaper than insurance in the US or UK. |
| Clinic-offered complication insurance | Add-on coverage (~$100–$300) for infections, implant failure, or re-operation. Offered by many international clinics. |
| Medical loans or installment plans | Some clinics and lenders provide financing options with monthly payments. Ask about interest rates and terms. |
| Travel medical insurance | Covers emergencies (not planned surgery). Useful against sudden complications. Options include SafetyWing and IMG Global. |
| International health insurance | Global plans (e.g., Cigna, Allianz) may cover unexpected complications, but usually exclude elective surgery. |
| Health Savings Accounts (US) | HSA/FSA funds may cover related costs like diagnostics, travel, or implants. Surgery itself rarely covered. |
Things to Know Before You Travel Abroad
This guide shows the key things to check — like visas, hospital quality, prices, and what to expect during your stay — in Thailand, Turkey, South Korea, and Poland. It'll help you feel ready and make the right choice.
| Category | Thailand | Turkey | South Korea | Poland |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visa | Visa-free for many. Medical visa for longer stays. E-Visa or visa-free for up to 90 days. | Visa-free for up to 90 days for most Western countries. | Visa-free up to 90 days for most Western countries. | Visa-free up to 90 days for EU/US travelers. |
| Stay Duration | 5–10 days including recovery. | 4–7 days, efficient trips. | 7–12 days with follow-up. | 7–10 days including rehab. |
| Language | English is widely spoken in private clinics. | English, Arabic, Russian support common. | English in top clinics; translation may be needed. | English in most private hospitals. |
| Costs | Itemized pricing. Some extras may apply. | Mostly fixed packages. | Transparent billing. | Clear prices with optional add-ons. |
| Payment | Thai Baht (฿). Cards/bank transfers accepted. | Turkish Lira (₺). Cards and transfers accepted. | Korean Won (₩). Cards widely accepted. | Polish Zloty (zł). Cards and SEPA transfers accepted. |
| Best Time to Go | Nov–Feb: dry & cool. | Apr–Jun or Sep–Oct: mild weather. | Mar–May or Sep–Nov: pleasant, low humidity. | May–Sep: warm and sunny. |
| Emergency Care | 24/7 private hospitals in major cities. | Emergency departments in most clinics and hospitals. | High-quality ERs and rapid ambulance services. | Full emergency services in private and public hospitals. |
| Emergency Number | ☎️ 1669 (Ambulance/EMS) | ☎️ 112 (All emergencies) | ☎️ 119 (Fire & Ambulance) / 1339 (Medical Help Line) | ☎️ 112 (All emergencies) |
FAQs
Here are a few fundamental questions people ask online, with clear answers to help you feel more prepared.
Should I get a pre-op evaluation before booking abroad?
Have a local doctor assess your knee first and forward those results (X‑ray, MRI, exam) to the overseas clinic. This ensures you book the right procedure and surgeon for your specific needs.
2. How soon can I fly after knee surgery?
Most patients can take short flights within 1–2 weeks if recovery is smooth. Aim for at least a 90° knee bend. Book an aisle seat, wear compression socks, and move around during the flight to prevent blood clots.
3. Can I walk normally a month after knee replacement?
By week 4–6, many patients walk without support. Expect fatigue and some stiffness. Physical therapy is key — whether at home or abroad.
4. Does the new knee ever feel strange?
It's normal to feel fluctuating tightness or "foreignness" for 6–12 months as your knee adjusts.
Related Articles
- Functional and radiological outcomes of total knee arthroplasty using posterior-stabilized U2 knee system: A retrospective study in 560 cases at five years of follow-up / G. Garabano et al. European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology. 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-024-04082-7 (date of access: 25.06.2025).
- Is There a Change in Anxiety and Depression Following Total Knee Arthroplasty? / K. R. Tripuraneni et al. The Journal of Arthroplasty. 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arth.2024.02.009 (date of access: 25.06.2025).
- Rankings. CEOWORLD magazine. URL: https://ceoworld.biz/best/ (date of access: 25.06.2025).
- Turkey Medical Tourism Market Size and Trends 2025-2032. Coherent Market Insights. URL: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/industry-reports/turkey-medical-tourism-market (date of access: 25.06.2025).