How much does knee replacement surgery cost?
How much does knee replacement surgery cost?
$30,000 – $70,000 average total cost
$2,000 – $10,000 out-of-pocket with insurance
$20,000 – $45,000 partial knee replacement
Average knee replacement surgery cost
Knee replacement surgery costs $30,000 to $70,000 on average in the United States, with most patients paying around $49,500 for a total knee replacement. Your final bill depends on several variables, including where you live, the type of procedure, your surgeon's fees, the hospital facility, and your insurance coverage. Out-of-pocket costs for insured patients typically fall between $2,000 and $10,000 after deductibles, copays, and coinsurance are applied.
| Cost category | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Total knee replacement (national average) | $30,000 – $70,000 |
| Partial knee replacement | $20,000 – $45,000 |
| Bilateral (double) knee replacement | $55,000 – $120,000 |
| Knee revision surgery | $40,000 – $80,000 |
| Out-of-pocket cost with insurance | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Out-of-pocket cost without insurance | $30,000 – $70,000+ |
Knee replacement is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries in the country, with over 790,000 procedures performed each year. Understanding the full scope of costs helps you plan financially and make informed decisions about your care.
The content of this site is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or services. The information provided should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of health problems. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional for advice about any medical concerns.
Knee replacement cost breakdown
The total price tag for knee replacement surgery includes several separate charges that are often billed individually. The surgeon's fee, hospital stay, anesthesia, implant device, and post-operative rehabilitation each contribute to the overall cost. Understanding each line item can help you identify areas where negotiation or comparison shopping may reduce your bill.
| Component | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Surgeon's fee | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Hospital/facility fee (1 to 3 day stay) | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Anesthesia | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Knee implant/prosthesis | $4,000 – $12,000 |
| Pre-surgical tests and imaging | $500 – $3,000 |
| Physical therapy (6 to 12 weeks) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Post-op medications | $200 – $1,000 |
| Medical equipment (walker, brace, etc.) | $100 – $500 |
Surgeon's fee
The orthopedic surgeon performing the procedure charges $5,000 to $15,000 on average. This fee covers the surgery itself, pre-operative consultations, and follow-up appointments. Highly experienced surgeons or those at academic medical centers may charge toward the higher end of this range.
Hospital and facility fee
The hospital or surgical facility fee is the single largest component of the total bill, typically costing $10,000 to $30,000. This covers the operating room, nursing care, the hospital room during your stay, medications administered in the hospital, and any equipment used during the procedure.
Outpatient knee replacement, which is becoming increasingly common, can significantly reduce this charge. Patients who go home the same day or within 24 hours avoid multiple days of inpatient room and board charges.
Knee implant cost
The prosthetic knee implant itself costs $4,000 to $12,000. Standard implants made from metal alloys (cobalt-chromium or titanium) with polyethylene plastic liners sit at the lower end. Premium options, such as custom-made or robotic-assisted implants, cost more. The type and brand of implant selected can vary significantly between hospitals.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for recovery and typically costs $1,500 to $5,000 over a six- to twelve-week period. Most patients attend physical therapy two to three times per week. Some insurance plans cover a limited number of sessions, while others require prior authorization. Home-based therapy tends to cost more than outpatient clinic visits.
Cost by type of knee replacement
Not all knee replacements are the same. The type of procedure your surgeon recommends depends on the extent of joint damage, your activity level, and your overall health. Each type carries a different price point based on complexity, duration, and the size of the implant used.
| Procedure type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Total knee replacement (TKR) | $30,000 – $70,000 |
| Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental) | $20,000 – $45,000 |
| Bilateral knee replacement (both knees) | $55,000 – $120,000 |
| Knee revision surgery | $40,000 – $80,000 |
| Robotic-assisted knee replacement | $35,000 – $80,000 |
Total knee replacement
Total knee replacement (TKR) is the most common type, costing $30,000 to $70,000. The surgeon removes the damaged surfaces of the femur, tibia, and sometimes the patella, then replaces them with metal and plastic components. Hospital stays typically last one to three days, though same-day discharge is growing more popular for healthy candidates.
Partial knee replacement
A partial or unicompartmental knee replacement costs $20,000 to $45,000. This procedure replaces only the damaged portion of the knee, preserving healthy bone and tissue. Recovery is generally faster, the incision is smaller, and the hospital stay is shorter, all of which contribute to the lower cost. However, not all patients are candidates for a partial replacement.
Bilateral (double) knee replacement
Having both knees replaced during a single surgical session costs $55,000 to $120,000. While the combined cost is higher than a single procedure, it is typically less than having two separate surgeries. Bilateral replacement eliminates the need for a second round of anesthesia, hospital stay, and recovery period. However, it carries higher surgical risk and requires more intensive rehabilitation.
Knee revision surgery
Revision surgery to repair or replace a failed knee implant costs $40,000 to $80,000. This procedure is more complex and takes longer than a primary replacement because the surgeon must remove the old implant, address any bone loss, and install a new prosthesis. Revision implants are also more expensive due to their specialized design.
Robotic-assisted knee replacement
Robotic-assisted surgery adds $3,000 to $10,000 to the cost of a standard knee replacement, bringing the total to approximately $35,000 to $80,000. Systems like the MAKO or ROSA robot help the surgeon plan and execute more precise bone cuts and implant placement. Some studies suggest improved outcomes and faster recovery, though long-term results are still being evaluated.
Factors that affect knee replacement cost
Several variables influence the final price of knee replacement surgery. Geographic location, facility type, surgeon experience, and the complexity of your case all play a role. Understanding these factors helps explain why two patients can receive the same procedure yet receive dramatically different bills.
| Factor | Impact on cost |
|---|---|
| Geographic location | Costs vary by 50% to 100%+ between states |
| Hospital vs. ambulatory surgery center | ASCs can save 30% to 50% |
| Surgeon experience and reputation | Higher demand surgeons charge more |
| Implant type and brand | Premium implants add $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Length of hospital stay | Each additional day adds $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Complications | Can add $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| Insurance plan and network status | Out-of-network can double costs |
Geographic location
Where you have surgery is one of the biggest cost drivers. Knee replacement in New York City or San Francisco can cost more than double what it does in smaller cities or rural areas. This variation reflects differences in the cost of living, local healthcare market competition, and facility overhead expenses.
Facility type
Having surgery at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) instead of a hospital can reduce costs by 30% to 50%. ASCs have lower overhead, shorter stays, and streamlined operations. Many orthopedic surgeons now perform outpatient knee replacements at ASCs for eligible patients, making this an increasingly viable cost-saving option.
Length of hospital stay
Each additional day in the hospital adds roughly $2,000 to $5,000 to your bill. Patients who experience complications, such as infection, blood clots, or difficulty with pain management, may require extended stays that dramatically increase the total cost. Outpatient or same-day discharge protocols help minimize this expense.
Complications and comorbidities
Pre-existing conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease can increase surgical costs. These patients may require additional testing, longer operating times, extended monitoring, and more intensive post-operative care. Complications like surgical site infection, deep vein thrombosis, or implant failure can add $10,000 to $50,000 or more to the total bill.
Knee replacement cost by state
Knee replacement costs vary widely across the United States. States with higher costs of living, such as New York and California, tend to have more expensive procedures. Meanwhile, states in the South and Midwest often offer lower prices for the same surgery.
| State | Average total cost |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $28,000 – $50,000 |
| Arizona | $30,000 – $55,000 |
| California | $40,000 – $85,000 |
| Colorado | $32,000 – $60,000 |
| Florida | $30,000 – $65,000 |
| Georgia | $28,000 – $55,000 |
| Illinois | $32,000 – $65,000 |
| Maryland | $35,000 – $70,000 |
| Massachusetts | $38,000 – $75,000 |
| Michigan | $30,000 – $58,000 |
| New York | $40,000 – $90,000 |
| North Carolina | $28,000 – $55,000 |
| Ohio | $28,000 – $55,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $32,000 – $65,000 |
| Tennessee | $27,000 – $50,000 |
| Texas | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Virginia | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Washington | $35,000 – $70,000 |
Some patients choose to travel to lower-cost states or cities for elective knee replacement surgery. This practice, known as domestic medical tourism, can yield significant savings even after accounting for travel and lodging expenses.
Request itemized cost estimates from multiple hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers in your area. Prices for the same procedure can vary by $20,000 or more between facilities within the same city.
Knee replacement cost with insurance
Most private health insurance plans cover knee replacement surgery when it is deemed medically necessary. With insurance, your out-of-pocket cost typically falls between $2,000 and $10,000. The exact amount depends on your plan's deductible, copay, coinsurance percentage, and out-of-pocket maximum.
| Insurance factor | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Annual deductible | $500 – $5,000 |
| Coinsurance (patient's share after deductible) | 10% – 30% |
| Out-of-pocket maximum | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Total patient out-of-pocket cost | $2,000 – $10,000 |
Prior authorization
Most insurance companies require prior authorization before approving knee replacement surgery. This means your doctor must submit clinical documentation showing that conservative treatments (physical therapy, medications, injections) have failed and that surgery is medically necessary. Without prior authorization, your insurer may deny the claim entirely, leaving you responsible for the full cost.
In-network vs. out-of-network
Choosing an in-network surgeon and facility is critical for keeping costs manageable. In-network providers have pre-negotiated rates with your insurance company, resulting in lower charges. Going out of network can double or triple your out-of-pocket expenses because your insurer will cover a smaller percentage, and the provider can bill you for the difference between their charge and what insurance pays (known as balance billing).
Employer-sponsored plans
If you have employer-sponsored insurance, check whether your plan has a centers of excellence (COE) program for joint replacement. Some employers partner with specific hospitals or health systems that offer bundled pricing for knee replacements. These bundled packages often include all costs from pre-surgical testing through rehabilitation at a fixed price, sometimes with reduced or waived deductibles and copays.
Knee replacement cost with Medicare
Medicare covers knee replacement surgery for eligible beneficiaries. Under Original Medicare (Parts A and B), patients typically pay approximately $2,000 to $5,000 out of pocket, depending on their specific coverage and whether they have supplemental insurance (Medigap).
| Medicare component | What it covers | Patient cost |
|---|---|---|
| Part A (hospital insurance) | Inpatient hospital stay, nursing care, meals, medications | $1,632 deductible per benefit period (2024) |
| Part B (medical insurance) | Surgeon's fee, anesthesia, outpatient services | 20% coinsurance after $240 deductible (2024) |
| Part B (physical therapy) | Post-surgical rehabilitation | 20% coinsurance |
| Medigap supplement (if applicable) | Covers remaining deductibles and coinsurance | $0 – $500 depending on plan |
How Medicare coverage works
Medicare Part A covers the inpatient hospital stay portion of knee replacement surgery. In 2024, the Part A deductible is $1,632 per benefit period. After meeting this deductible, Part A covers the full cost for up to 60 days of inpatient care with no additional daily copay.
Medicare Part B covers the surgeon's fee, anesthesia, and outpatient services, including physical therapy. After the annual Part B deductible of $240, beneficiaries pay 20% coinsurance on Medicare-approved charges.
Medicare Advantage plans
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer different cost-sharing structures for knee replacement. Some plans feature lower copays for inpatient surgery, while others may require prior authorization or restrict you to a specific network of providers. Review your plan's Summary of Benefits carefully to understand your expected costs.
Medigap supplemental insurance
If you have a Medigap policy alongside Original Medicare, your out-of-pocket costs can drop to near $0. Popular Medigap plans like Plan F and Plan G cover the Part A deductible, Part B coinsurance, and excess charges. This makes Medicare with a Medigap supplement one of the most affordable ways to pay for knee replacement surgery.
Knee replacement cost without insurance
Without insurance, the full cost of knee replacement falls on the patient. Uninsured patients can expect to pay $30,000 to $70,000 or more for a total knee replacement. However, several strategies can help reduce this burden.
| Option | Potential savings |
|---|---|
| Hospital cash-pay discount | 20% – 50% off listed price |
| Ambulatory surgery center (ASC) | 30% – 50% savings vs. hospital |
| Bundled pricing program | Fixed price of $15,000 – $35,000 |
| Medical tourism (domestic) | Varies by destination |
| Payment plan | Spread cost over 12 to 60 months |
Cash-pay and self-pay discounts
Many hospitals and surgery centers offer significant discounts of 20% to 50% for patients who pay in cash or upfront. These discounts reflect the savings the provider enjoys by avoiding insurance claim processing and reducing the risk of non-payment. Always ask about self-pay rates before scheduling your procedure.
Bundled pricing programs
Some healthcare providers offer bundled pricing packages for knee replacement that include all costs from consultation through rehabilitation in a single, transparent price. These packages often range from $15,000 to $35,000. Facilities like the Surgery Center of Oklahoma and other transparent-pricing providers have gained popularity among cash-pay patients seeking affordable care.
Medical tourism
International medical tourism can reduce knee replacement costs dramatically. Procedures in countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, India, and Thailand cost $5,000 to $15,000, including the surgeon's fee, hospital stay, and implant. However, patients should carefully evaluate the quality of care, surgeon credentials, infection rates, and the logistics of follow-up treatment before traveling abroad for surgery.
If you travel abroad for knee replacement, make sure you have a clear plan for post-operative follow-up care and physical therapy with a local provider when you return home. Complications that arise after international surgery can be expensive to address domestically.
How to save on knee replacement surgery
There are multiple strategies for reducing the cost of knee replacement, whether you have insurance or are paying out of pocket. Planning ahead, comparing options, and negotiating bills can yield savings of thousands of dollars.
| Strategy | Potential savings |
|---|---|
| Compare facility prices | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
| Choose an ambulatory surgery center | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Negotiate your bill | 10% – 40% |
| Use an HSA or FSA | Tax savings of 22% – 37% |
| Schedule surgery late in the calendar year | Maximize deductible already met |
| Ask about financial assistance programs | Varies by hospital |
Compare prices across facilities
Price transparency tools are now available through many insurers and independent websites. CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) requires hospitals to publish their standard charges online. Use these resources to compare the cost of knee replacement at different facilities in your area and beyond.
Time your surgery strategically
If you have already met or are close to meeting your insurance plan's annual deductible, scheduling surgery before the year ends can save you money. Conversely, if you anticipate needing additional medical care (such as physical therapy or follow-up procedures), scheduling early in the year ensures all related expenses count toward your deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Use an HSA or FSA
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow you to pay for medical expenses with pre-tax dollars. Depending on your tax bracket, this effectively saves you 22% to 37% on eligible costs. If you know knee replacement is in your future, maximize your HSA or FSA contributions in the months leading up to surgery.
Negotiate your hospital bill
Hospital bills are often negotiable, especially for uninsured patients. Request an itemized bill, review it for errors or duplicate charges, and ask for a reduction. Many hospitals have financial assistance programs or charity care policies for patients who meet income requirements. Even insured patients can sometimes negotiate their coinsurance or copay amounts.
Payment plans and financing
Most hospitals offer interest-free or low-interest payment plans that allow you to spread the cost over 12 to 60 months. Third-party medical financing companies like CareCredit and Prosper Healthcare Lending also provide options, though interest rates on these loans can be high if you do not pay within the promotional period.
Frequently asked questions
Is knee replacement surgery worth the cost?
For most patients with severe osteoarthritis or joint damage that limits daily activities, knee replacement surgery significantly improves quality of life. Studies show that over 90% of knee replacement patients experience substantial pain relief and improved mobility. Modern implants last 15 to 25 years or longer, making the investment worthwhile for eligible candidates who have exhausted conservative treatment options.
Can knee replacement be done as an outpatient procedure?
Yes. Outpatient or same-day knee replacement is becoming more common, particularly for healthy patients without significant comorbidities. Medicare removed total knee replacement from its inpatient-only list in 2020, allowing the procedure to be performed at ambulatory surgery centers. Outpatient surgery can reduce the total cost by 30% to 50% compared to a traditional inpatient hospital stay.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients can walk with assistance within 24 hours of surgery and return to daily activities within four to six weeks. Full recovery, including the return to vigorous physical activity, typically takes three to six months. Physical therapy is essential throughout the recovery period and usually involves two to three sessions per week for six to twelve weeks.
Are there hidden costs to consider?
Yes. Common expenses that patients overlook include pre-surgical imaging and lab tests ($500 to $3,000), durable medical equipment such as walkers and knee braces ($100 to $500), home modifications like grab bars or a shower seat ($100 to $1,000), and lost wages during the recovery period. Planning for these additional costs helps avoid financial surprises.
How long do knee implants last?
Modern knee implants are designed to last 15 to 25 years or longer. Studies show that approximately 82% of total knee replacements are still functioning well after 25 years. Factors that influence implant longevity include patient weight, activity level, implant material, and surgical technique. If an implant does fail, revision surgery is necessary and costs more than the original procedure.
Is there an ideal age for knee replacement?
Most knee replacements are performed on patients between the ages of 50 and 80. While there is no strict age limit, surgeons generally recommend waiting until conservative treatments are no longer effective. Younger patients may need revision surgery later in life as implants wear out, while older patients face slightly higher surgical risks. Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your individual case to determine the best timing.