Medical Tourism Orthopedic Mexico: Procedures, and Costs

More people from the United States and Canada are traveling to Mexico for orthopedic procedures because of the large cost savings and easy access to care. Orthopedic surgery in Mexico can cost 65-80% less than in the US, with prices for surgeries like knee or hip replacements starting around USD 9,500. Many clinics offer experienced surgeons and modern facilities, while wait times are much shorter than back home.

Patients can choose from a range of common orthopedic treatments. These include options like total knee or hip replacement, ACL reconstruction, shoulder arthroscopy, and fracture repair. Mexico’s orthopedic clinics often use FDA-approved implants and offer all-inclusive care packages that cover hospital fees, medications, and physiotherapy, making the process less stressful for international patients.

Qualified orthopedic surgeons in Mexico often have years of specialized experience and belong to respected medical associations. With clear communication and transparent prices, patients can plan their surgery abroad with confidence. There are many ways to find safe, high-quality orthopedic care while enjoying the benefits of medical tourism.

Key Takeaways

• Mexico offers affordable, quality orthopedic surgery for international patients
• Many procedures are available, including joint replacements and fracture repairs
• Patients should look for experienced surgeons and accredited clinics

Why Choose Orthopedic Medical Tourism in Mexico

Orthopedic medical tourism in Mexico combines significant cost savings, high-quality care, and convenient travel options. Patients can access skilled surgeons and modern hospitals for major surgeries like knee or hip replacements, all while avoiding long waiting times at home.

Affordability and Cost-Effective Treatment

Mexico is known for offering orthopedic surgeries at a fraction of the cost found in the United States or Canada. Knee and hip replacements can cost 65–80% less in Mexico. For instance, a total knee replacement averages about USD 9,500, compared to USD 50,000 or more in the US. Hip replacements are priced similarly, giving patients a chance to save thousands of dollars.

Other procedures, like arthroscopy, ligament repairs, and fracture treatment, follow the same trend—much lower prices for the same high-quality implants and care. These reasonable prices make orthopedic care in Mexico a practical choice for people who are uninsured or have high deductibles.

Quality of Orthopedic Care

Patients receive care from orthopedic surgeons with international training and memberships in groups such as the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Hospitals in Mexico use FDA-approved implants and follow safety standards comparable to those in North America. Many clinics boast modern medical technology and bilingual staff to support international patients at every step.

Facilities are often certified and may carry accreditations like ISO 9001. Continuous professional development, international partnerships, and high patient volumes help maintain the quality of care. Independent reviews and statistics show that top hospitals achieve outcomes similar to those expected in the US.

Common Orthopedic Procedures in Mexico

Mexico offers many orthopedic procedures that help patients gain mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. The country is known for joint replacements like hip, knee, and shoulder surgeries, as well as advanced arthroscopic techniques.

Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery is often chosen by people with severe arthritis or a damaged joint from injury. Surgeons remove the worn-out or damaged sections of the hip joint and replace them with artificial parts, usually made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. This procedure helps restore movement and ease hip pain.

In Mexico, hip replacement is performed at a fraction of the cost compared to many other countries, with savings reported up to 78% versus the US. Many hospitals use implants from trusted brands and include services such as physiotherapy, medications, and pre-surgery tests in all-inclusive packages.

Benefits include:

• Reduced pain and stiffness
• Improved walking and daily activity
• Faster access to surgery, often with little wait time

Patients seeking hip replacement in Mexico can find experienced surgeons and modern facilities in cities like Tijuana, Cancun, and Puerto Vallarta.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery is designed for people with worn-out knee joints, usually from arthritis or major injury. The damaged parts of the knee are replaced with metal and plastic implants, which help restore function and decrease pain.

Mexico is a popular destination for knee replacement, thanks to its affordable prices and top doctors. The average cost for a total knee replacement starts around USD 9,500, compared to USD 50,000 or more in the US. Procedures include total, partial, and even robotic-assisted knee replacements.

What patients gain:

• Less chronic pain
• Better flexibility and knee function
• Faster access to surgery, often with little wait time

Leading hospitals in Mexico use up-to-date techniques and offer bilingual staff to help international patients.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Shoulder replacement helps people with joint damage from arthritis, fractures, or rotator cuff injuries. The surgeon removes the damaged parts and replaces them with artificial components, allowing smoother motion and less pain. Types include total, partial, and reverse shoulder replacements.

In Mexico, shoulder replacement surgery costs about $11,000, much lower than the US, while still offering FDA-approved implants and skilled care. Hospitals in cities like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta have experienced surgeons trained in the latest techniques.

Patients often notice:

• Relief from pain during movement
• Better range of motion for daily tasks
• Shorter wait times and recovery with dedicated post-op care

Additional support like physiotherapy and medication is usually included in the price. 

Arthroscopic Surgeries

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive way to treat joint problems. Surgeons make tiny cuts and use a small camera, called an arthroscope, to see and fix issues inside the joint. Common arthroscopic procedures in Mexico include knee arthroscopy for meniscus tears, shoulder arthroscopy for labral or rotator cuff repairs, and ankle or elbow arthroscopy.

Arthroscopy often leads to less pain, fewer scars, and quicker recovery than traditional open surgery. In Mexico, these techniques are offered at much lower prices than in the US. For example, knee arthroscopy can cost about $3,500.

Key benefits:

• Outpatient or short hospital stays
• Faster return to work or sports
• Modern equipment and skilled orthopedic surgeons

Patients often travel to Mexico for arthroscopic procedures because of high success rates, low cost, and access to advanced medical care.

Why Patients Trust Dr. Gerardo Mangino for Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico

When it comes to orthopedic surgery abroad, choosing a qualified surgeon and a safe, accredited clinic is essential. Dr. Gerardo Mangino, a knee and hip specialist based in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, has earned the trust of patients from the U.S., Canada, and beyond thanks to his advanced training, strong credentials, and commitment to personalized, high-quality care.

Internationally Trained and Board-Certified

Dr. Mangino received his medical degree from the prestigious National Autonomous University of Mexico and completed advanced fellowship training in hip and knee joint reconstruction in Indiana and Ohio, under the mentorship of world-renowned surgeons. He is affiliated with respected organizations such as:

• The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• The Mexican Council of Orthopedics
• The Mexican Federation of Colleges of Orthopedics and Traumatology (FEMECOT)

With over a decade of specialized experience and numerous successful procedures, Dr. Mangino focuses on joint replacements, complex reconstructions, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient.

Accredited Facilities and Safety Standards

Dr. Mangino performs surgeries at modern, fully equipped hospitals in Cabo San Lucas that meet international standards of safety and care. These facilities feature state-of-the-art medical technology, bilingual staff, and dedicated support services for international patients. From the moment you arrive, you can expect a professional and welcoming environment designed to put your health and comfort first.

A Seamless Experience for International Patients

Dr. Mangino and his team offer virtual consultations and second opinions to help patients make informed decisions before traveling. They provide clear pre-operative instructions and help coordinate every aspect of your journey.

Before your procedure, you'll receive:

• A detailed surgical and recovery plan
• Guidance on what to bring and how to prepare
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Assistance with post-operative care and physical therapy planning

Thanks to Dr. Mangino’s international experience, fluency in English and Spanish, and patient-centered approach, orthopedic surgery in Cabo San Lucas becomes not only affordable—but also reassuringly professional, safe, and effective.

If you're considering hip or knee surgery abroad, Dr. Gerardo Mangino is a trusted name in orthopedic care. Contact us today to request your virtual consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people are interested in orthopedic surgery in Mexico because of lower prices, experienced doctors, and modern hospitals. Patients often have questions about costs, doctor qualifications, hospital options, and what care is like after surgery.

What are the advantages of opting for orthopedic surgery in Mexico compared to other countries?

People choose Mexico for orthopedic surgery to save money, avoid long wait times, and receive high-quality care. Hospitals are often equipped with modern technology and employ bilingual staff. Mexico’s proximity to the U.S. lowers travel time and cost. Patients also benefit from clear package pricing and a streamlined process for medical tourists.

How do I choose the best orthopedic surgeon in Mexico for my needs?

Research surgeon qualifications, looking at board certifications and past training. Review patient testimonials from people who had similar procedures. Many people prefer contacting a medical tourism facilitator for help finding a surgeon and arranging logistics. Make sure the facility is accredited, and the surgeon is experienced with international patients.