Knee Replacement Surgery in Costa Rica
Are you considering knee replacement surgery in Costa Rica? But perhaps you are worried about the costs and quality of treatments. We may be able to help.
This guide covers the treatment costs for Total Knee Replacement (TKR) and Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) surgery.
Learn more about the top hospitals in Costa Rica, the best surgeons, and how to get there. Let us explore what makes it a popular medical tourism destination.
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) – Animation. Video Courtesy: Dr. Anand Jadhav
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Costa Rica for Knee Surgery
Costa Rica is affordable! Medical treatments are usually about 30 – 70% cheaper than the US and Canadian prices.[1]CNBC
Why this Texas doctor says Costa Rica’s health care system beats the US
“All at 30 percent to 70 percent cheaper than U.S. or Canadian prices.”
View in Article
Here are five more reasons why San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, is so popular with foreign patients:
1️⃣ Internationally Recognized Hospitals: JCI, AAAASF, AAAHC accreditations.
2️⃣ Easy Accessibility: 4.5 hrs from NYC & 5 hrs from Toronto / Montreal.
3️⃣ No Waiting Lists or Delays: Swift diagnosis and treatment plans.
4️⃣ Safety and Security: Politically stable country[2]US News
Overview of Costa Rica
“Costa Rica has been one of the most politically and economically stable countries in Central America since its birth in the 19th century.”
View in Article & best healthcare system.[3]The commonwealth fund
What Does Community-Oriented Primary Health Care Look Like? Lessons from Costa Rica
“ Costa Rica offers an example of an efficient health care system centered around a backbone of robust, community-oriented primary health care, characterized by strong and effective use of community health workers to improve access, quality, and equity.”
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5️⃣ Top Ecotourism Destination:[4]Enchanting Costa Rica
Costa Rica Tops the World in Eco-Tourism
“Nearly a third of travelers saying they would choose to travel to a destination because it is considered eco-friendly.”
View in Article Heal while enjoying the scenic beauty.
Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery in Costa Rica
Knee replacement surgery costs in Costa Rica can vary between $15,250 and $29,250. But, the US hospitals charge as high as $70,000 for a total knee replacement.[5]BlueCross BlueShield
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Study Reveals Extreme Cost Variations for Knee and Hip Replacement Surgeries
“However, it could cost as little as $11,317 in Montgomery, Alabama, and as much as $69,654 in New York, New York.”
View in Article
For more clarity, let us look at the cost comparison table below.
Knee Replacement Surgery Cost Comparison (USD) – Costa Rica vs. US
| Procedure | US | Costa Rica |
| Total Knee Replacement (Unilateral) | $20,000 – $30,000 | $15,250 – $16,450 |
| Total Knee Replacement (Bilateral) | $40,000 – $70,000 | $27,250 – $29,250 |
| Partial Knee Replacement (Unilateral) | $18,995 – $25,000 | $12,750 – $13,950 |
| Revision Knee Replacement Surgery | $34,000 – $73,000 | Request Price |
| Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery | $18,500 – $20,000 | Request Price |
| *Unilateral: one Knee; Bilateral: both knees | ||
**Prices are subject to change. We advise you to fill out our online quote form for the latest prices.
The all-inclusive package price includes:
- Private transportation: 1 airport and 3 hospital roundtrip transfers
- Hospital costs: Surgery room, equipment, supplies, medications, etc.
- Hospitalization (if needed): Companion can stay at no extra cost
- Medical team fees (surgeon, assistant, and anesthesiologist)
- Pre-operative exams: Blood tests, ECG, preliminary evaluation
- Pre-op and post-op appointments with lead surgeons
On average, you can save up to 30 – 50% of your US costs. It can be an affordable option, especially for those who cannot afford private surgery costs.
Please consult with our experts today to know more about procedure details, payment programs, and package plans.
Best Orthopedic Hospitals in Costa Rica
You can find top-notch orthopedic clinics in Costa Rica. However, before heading over to Costa Rica, you have to ensure that you’re in one of the best knee replacement hospitals employing top knee surgeons in Cost Rica.
For knee replacement patients, the two hospitals that stand out in Costa Rica are:
1. Clinica Biblica, San Jose
Clinica Biblica ranks as one of the best JCI accredited hospitals in Latin America. Its 60+ specialties make it a popular destination for medical tourists.
It is a high-quality medical facility with 120 in-patients & 5,000 out-patients daily.
Clinica Biblica also has its own dedicated Medical Tourism department.
English & Spanish speaking staff tend to the needs of foreign tourists there.
The hospital has a 24-hour clinical lab and top-class modern care facilities.
Clinica Biblica
It also boasts access to the country’s best doctors and international-grade medical equipment.
2. Center for International Medical Advanced (CIMA), Escazu
CIMA ranks among the best JCI-accredited[6]JCI JCI-Accredited Organizations
“Hospital CIMA San Jose. LOCATION- San José, Costa Rica. Accredited Since 01 May 2008”
View in Article hospitals in Latin America. It is part of the International Hospital Corporation, a Texas-based hospital chain.
CIMA is also certified by the Latin American Quality Institute.
It was the first hospital approved for Quality Processes by the Ministry of Health in Costa Rica.
In addition to the state-of-the-art infrastructure & technology, the orthopedic team has extensive national and international experience managing complicated cases.
CIMA Hospital
With MTC, you can look forward to a safe and satisfying journey to Costa Rica.
Choose from some of the best surgeons in San Jose, with a customized surgery package created by our in-house experts.
Top Knee Surgeons in Costa Rica
Dr. Víctor Eduardo Álvarez Murillo
Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
Experience: Over 20 years
Expertise: Knee Arthroscopy, fracture management, knee diseases
Dr. Alexander Valverde Retana
Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
Experience: Over 20 years
Expertise: Cervical fusion, Cervical spine fracture surgery, Meniscectomy
Dr. Bernal González Gutiérrez
Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
Experience: Over 10 years
Expertise: Joint Reconstruction (Hip and Knee), Knee Arthroscopy
Dr. Mauricio Eugenin Hernández
Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
Experience: Over 10 years
Expertise: Total knee arthroplasty, Knee cartilage surgery
Dr. Manuel Chavarría Alvarado
Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
Experience: Over 10 years
Expertise: Sports Medicine, Knee surgery, Ankle arthroscopy
Dr. Akira Kobayashi Pinto
Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
Experience: Over 10 years
Expertise: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, Knee arthroscopy
Knee Surgeon Reviews in Costa Rica
US patient testimonial for total knee replacement in Costa Rica
Mr. Charles Rychner from Milwaukee, US, came to Costa Rica for knee surgery as his insurance in the US would not cover it.
To know what he has to say about his treatment and how he could save 40,000 USD coming to Costa Rica with the help of MTC,
Knee Replacement Hospital Reviews in Costa Rica
For Clinica Biblica, San Jose
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 Stars (Google Reviews)
“In my opinion, it’s the best health care provider in Costa Rica. Either for emergency cases or for consults, assistance is almost always immediate. Has some of the best doctors in Costa Rica and has also won several prizes.”
– Mauricio Navarro
For Center for International Medical Advanced (CIMA), Escazu
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 Stars (Google Reviews)
“I really like CIMA and all of their doctors – and highly recommend their services as the best in Costa Rica – they certainly have the best diagnostic equipment in the country.
I have been a patient for several years and have had both regular testing and emergency medical services. with several different doctors. Their medical staff and, in particular, their specialists are paralleled in the country.”
– Denise
How to Reach Costa Rica
Air Travel
The international airport of Costa Rica is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). It takes between 3 and 7 hours to fly to Costa Rica from most US cities.
International flights include American Airlines, US Airways, Air Canada, Continental Delta, and Juan Santamaria.
Flying time from US cities to San Jose Airport (SJO), Costa Rica
Bus Travel
There are bus services that connect San José with neighboring countries. It includes Panama, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, and Guatemala.
While some may travel to Costa Rica by land, most visitors arrive by plane. You can use these bus services to travel around Costa Rica.
Visa Requirement
American and Canadian travelers can enter Costa Rica without a visa. All European Union citizens also enjoy Visa-exempt travel.
All you need is a valid passport and a prepaid airline ticket. They can stay up to 90-days in Costa Rica.[7]Costa Rica Embassy
VISAS, RESIDENCES, PERMITS
“ US nationals do not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 90 days.”
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Should you need an extension, you can submit a request with the Office of Temporary Permits of the Department of Immigration in Costa Rica.
Medical Tourism in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the most affordable medical destinations for surgical procedures.
Each year, it receives many international tourists and has an ideally-suited infrastructure for medical tourism.
Most professionals there have international training and experience and an excellent level of English.[8]International Living
6 Countries with the Best Healthcare in the World
“Many of the country’s doctors work in both sectors, have studied in North America or Europe, and most in the private field speak English.”
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Costa Rica Sea
Aside from its natural and cultural attractions, the country has top-notch recovery facilities and spas.
These places offer patients a comfortable and supportive environment to recover after a procedure.
Most facilities have 24-hour nursing services, all-inclusive meal plans, and massage parlors.
Top 5 Things To Do in Escazu, Costa Rica
Escazu is a small but beautiful tourist destination worth a visit.
It is famous for its incredible natural scenery and luxury shopping malls. Here are a few things to do in Escazu:
1. Explore the Mariposario butterfly kingdom. It is a small but well-kept place for thousands of butterflies.
2. Enjoy a Coffee Tour at the El Toledo coffee plantation. See the coffee harvesting process and enjoy the taste of authentic organic coffee.
3. Do a rainforest night tour in rainmaker park to enjoy the wonders of nightlife.
Butterfly Kingdom
Rainmaker park
Multiplaza
4. Explore Escazu’s food stalls and cuisine. Don’t miss the Nau sushi lounge and Park Cafe for some truly authentic local food.
5. Shop at the Multiplaza mall. Many international brands cater to the whim of shoppers here. It is often known as the Beverley Hills of Costa Rica.
There is no shortage of well-maintained hotels at Escazu for accommodation.
Hotels Real Intercontinental (5-star) & Alta las Palomas can be the best choices.
FAQs
How much does a knee replacement cost in Costa Rica?
The cost of total knee replacement (TKR) in Costa Rica San Jose is $15,250 – $29,250 without insurance. In the US, the same surgery costs as high as $70,000.
Uninsured Americans can save over 50% by going to Costa Rica for knee replacement.
How long would the artificial knee last?
An artificial knee will usually last between 10-15 years.[9]Harvard Medical School
How long will my hip or knee replacement last?
“ 90% or more of hip or knee replacements would last at least 10 to 15 years. ”
View in Article The durability also depends on the material used and how much you use your knee.
How long should I plan to stay in Costa Rica for TKR?
A knee replacement surgery lasts for 1 to 3 hours. Post-surgery, the recommended hospital stay is usually for one to three days.[10]AAOS Ortho Info
Total Knee Replacement
“If you are admitted to the hospital, you will most likely stay from one to three days.”
View in Article
You would be able to resume most normal activities within three to six weeks following surgery. Though there might be a minor pain for a couple of weeks after surgery, it will subside in time.
An exercise regimen & an iron-rich balanced diet will help recover fast. It is advisable to consult and work with a physiotherapist. It will help speed up your healing and recovery.
What is the best knee replacement hospital today?
The best knee replacement hospital in San Jose today is Clinica Biblica. The quality care patients receive is at par with prestigious North American Hospitals.
CIMA is the best knee replacement hospital today in Escazu, Costa Rica. It is famous for its clinical and service excellence.
Conclusion
Knee replacement in the US can cost almost 50% more than in Costa Rica. You also get top-notch care in world-class facilities.
These aspects make Costa Rica a popular medical tourism destination, attracting 20,000 people every year.[11]The Tico Times
Costa Rica remains a popular destination for medical tourism
“It has become a popular medical tourism destination, attracting some 20,000 people every year. ”
View in Article You can be at ease traveling to Costa Rica for your knee replacement surgery!
Did you find answers to all your questions?
Feel free to connect with us. Our team can help create a customized travel package for you, considering your specific condition.
References
- CNBC: Costa Rica’s health care system beats the US
- US News: Overview of Costa Rica
- The Commonwealth Fund: Lessons from Costa Rica
- Enchanting Costa Rica: Costa Rica Tops the World in Eco-Tourism
- BCBS: Extreme Cost Variations for Knee & Hip Replacement Surgeries
- Joint Commission International: JCI-Accredited Organizations
- Costa Rica Embassy: Entry Requirements to Costa Rica
- International Living: 6 Countries with the Best Healthcare in the World
- Harvard Medical School: How long will my hip or knee replacement last?
- AAOS Ortho Info: Total knee replacement
- The Tico Times: Costa Rica remains popular destination for medical tourism
