What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery, or hip arthroplasty, replaces a damaged hip joint or arthritic hip joint with an artificial one (prosthesis) made of metal, ceramic, or plastic.
✅A highly effective procedure, it boasts over 90% to 100% success rates within the first 5 years, helping patients regain comfort and mobility.
Structure of the Hip Joint
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket mechanism that supports your body and enables smooth movement.
-
Ball. The top of the thigh bone (femur).
-
Socket. A hollow in the pelvis (acetabulum).
-
Cartilage. A smooth layer reducing friction.
-
Ligaments and muscles. Provide stability and movement.
In hip replacement, the damaged ball and sometimes the socket are replaced with artificial components to restore function and reduce pain.
Who Should Consider Hip Replacement?
-
Patients with severe arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis).
-
Those with hip injuries causing joint damage.
-
People with chronic pain limiting daily life.
Who Should Avoid Hip Replacement?
-
Patients with active infections that can increase surgical risks.
-
Those with severe osteoporosis, as weak bones may not support the implant.
-
People with uncontrolled chronic illnesses like advanced heart disease or diabetes.
-
Individuals with extreme obesity which puts excessive stress on the new joint.
-
Patients with unrealistic recovery expectations or poor commitment to rehabilitation.
Benefits of Hip Replacement Surgery
| ✅ Benefit |
How life changes |
| Pain relief |
Experience relief from chronic hip pain, making everyday activities more comfortable. |
| Improved mobility |
Enjoy walking, climbing stairs, and other movements. |
| Better quality of life |
Regain independence and participate in social and physical activities confidently. |
| Durable joint |
Experience long-term benefits, as modern implants last 15–20 years or more. |
| Corrected deformities |
Improved posture and alignment enhance comfort and appearance. |
| Increased strength |
Stronger muscles around the hip support better stability and balance. |
👉Many patients who undergo hip replacements report a significant improvement in their quality of life and overall joint function. You can check out their testimonials via the link.
Types of Hip Replacement Procedures
This procedure involves removing the entire hip joint. The ball (top of the thigh bone) and socket (part of the pelvis) are replaced with artificial components.
➤It is commonly performed for severe arthritis or significant joint damage. The surgery usually takes a few hours and is done under general anesthesia.
🔷Partial hip replacement
In partial hip replacement, only the damaged ball of the thigh bone is replaced. The socket is left intact. This less invasive option often allows for quicker recovery.
➤It is typically recommended for patients with hip fractures, such as a broken femoral neck.
🔷Hip resurfacing
Hip resurfacing keeps more of the natural bone intact. The damaged ball of the thigh bone is covered with a metal or ceramic cap. The socket is often smoothed and resurfaced.
➤This procedure is ideal for younger, active patients with strong bones.
🔷 Revision hip replacement
Replaces worn-out, loosened, or failed components from a previous hip replacement. This more complex surgery often requires specialized techniques to restore joint function and ensure durability.
➤ Best for patients with worn-out, loosened, or failed implants, or those facing complications like infection or instability.
🔷 MAKO robotic-assisted replacement
Uses advanced robotic technology for precise implant positioning. Leads to potentially better outcomes, quicker recovery, and longer-lasting joints.
➤Ideal for patients seeking cutting-edge care for improved alignment and stability.
Why Choose Mexico for Hip Replacement?
🎁Affordable prices
The cost of hip replacement in Mexico ranges between $7,000 - $10,000, up to 75% less than in the US, where prices reach $40,000. Patients save significantly without compromising quality.
🏥Certified hospitals
Hospitals in Mexico are accredited by JCI and the General Health Council of Mexico. Many are also recognized by the Medical Tourism Association (MTA).
🗺️Convenience for North Americans
Mexico's proximity to the US and Canada offers easy travel. Cities like Tijuana and Cancun provide direct 2–5 hours flights and bilingual staff. Over 40-60% of medical tourists in Mexico come from the US.
🎁Comprehensive packages
Clinics offer all-inclusive packages covering surgery, hospital stays, medications, and transfers. These packages simplify the process and ensure transparency.
🌍A top medical tourism destination
With 1.4–3 million medical tourists annually, Mexico is a leading choice for hip replacement surgery, combining affordability, certified care, and accessibility.
How Much Does A Hip Replacement Cost In Mexico?
💲The cost of a hip replacement in Mexico is remarkably low compared to the US. Total hip replacement surgery in Mexico costs $7,000–$10,000. This allows savings of up to 75% or $30,000 compared to US prices of $28,200–$40,000.
For partial hip replacement surgery in Mexico, prices start at $4,500, offering savings of up to 85% versus US costs of $30,000–$50,000. Even advanced options like hip resurfacing in Mexico are up to 70% cheaper, starting at $8,000.
With shorter wait times, bilingual staff, and top facilities in cities like Tijuana, hip replacement in Mexico is both affordable and high-quality.
| Procedure |
Cost in Mexico (USD) |
Cost in the US (USD) |
Cost in the UK (USD) |
Cost in Australia (USD) |
| Total hip replacement (THR) |
$7,000–$10,000 |
$28,200–$40,000 |
$10,500–$15,800 |
$21,000–$31,500 |
| Revision hip replacement |
$10,000–$12,000 |
$30,000–$50,000 |
$15,000–$25,000 |
$20,000–$30,000 |
| MAKO robotic-assisted replacement |
$12,000–$18,000 |
$30,000–$100,000 |
$30,000–$50,000 |
$30,000–$50,000 |
| Partial hip replacement |
$4,500–$7,500 |
$30,000–$50,000 |
$15,000–$25,000 |
$20,000–$35,000 |
| Hip resurfacing |
$8,000–$15,000 |
$30,000–$50,000 |
$12,000–$20,000 |
$15,000–$30,000 |
What's Included in the Hip Replacement Surgery Package?
🎁 An all-inclusive hip replacement package offers patients a comprehensive solution at a fixed price.
These packages usually cover surgery, pre-and postoperative care, and extra services to streamline the medical travel experience.
Designed to be budget-friendly and transparent, they eliminate hidden costs and are often available at discounted rates through Bookimed's partner clinics. Exclusive deals further enhance affordability, ensuring top-quality care is within reach.
| Included in the Package |
Details |
| Surgery and anesthesia |
Type of anesthesia (general or spinal) and surgeon's experience. |
| Preoperative tests |
Whether all tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI) are included or require extra fees. |
| Hospital stay |
Length of stay and type of room (private or shared). |
| Medications |
Post-discharge medications included or not. |
| Postoperative follow-up |
Duration and number of follow-up visits covered in the package. |
| Physical therapy |
How many sessions are included and whether extended treatment is available. |
| Transfers |
Availability of airport-hotel-clinic transfers and type (VIP or standard). |
| Language assistance |
If interpreters are provided or if bilingual staff is available. |
| 24/7 support |
Scope of assistance, including emergency services or remote support. |
| Accommodation |
If hotel stay is included and for how many nights. |
| Airfare |
Rarely included—confirm separately if applicable. |
💡 Contact your chosen clinic or a Bookimed medical coordinator to confirm package details.
Top Orthopedic Hospitals in Mexico
Mexico's top orthopedic hospitals offer world-class care, advanced technology, and affordable prices for procedures like hip arthroplasty surgery in Mexico.
📌Mexicali, Mexico
The Family Hospital in Mexicali, Mexico, just 200 yards from the US border, specializes in medical tourism with 24 specialties, 32 private rooms, and advanced facilities. Part of Grupo Mac since 2020, it has served thousands of international patients and gained recognition in outlets like CNN and the New York Times for its quality care.
📌Tijuana, Mexico
Advance Health Medical Center in Tijuana offers affordable, high-quality hip replacement surgery with experienced orthopedic surgeons and personalized care for international patients.
What to Expect During Hip Replacement Surgery in Mexico
| Stage |
Details |
| Anesthesia |
Administered as general or spinal anesthesia to ensure a pain-free procedure. |
| Surgery duration |
The procedure typically lasts 1–2 hours. Damaged hip parts are replaced with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. |
| Hospital stay |
Patients usually stay in the hospital for 2–5 days for monitoring and initial recovery. |
| Recovery start |
Physical therapy begins shortly after surgery to restore mobility and strength. |
| Expected outcome |
Surgery reduces chronic pain, improves joint function, and enhances daily life activities, with most patients returning to normal routines within weeks. |
💚 For personalized assistance in choosing the best hospital and planning your surgery abroad, consult a Bookimed medical coordinator at no extra cost.
Recovery And Rehabilitation After Hip Replacement Surgery In Mexico
1️⃣ Hospital recovery
Patients stay 2–5 days for monitoring and initial mobility exercises.
2️⃣ Physical therapy
Rehabilitation starts immediately after surgery to regain strength and mobility. Mexican clinics often include personalized therapy sessions tailored to patients' needs.
3️⃣ Full recovery timeline
Light activities can resume in 4–6 weeks, with full recovery taking 3–6 months. Mexican orthopedic teams guide patients through every step, ensuring faster progress.
💡 Choosing hip replacement in Mexico offers cost-effective surgery and comprehensive aftercare designed to help patients return to their daily lives quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is not included in the package price❓
- Most of the time, the package price does not include the cost of the prosthetic, recovery house, take-home medications, and ICU/blood transfusions, if any.
How long is the ground transportation from the US border to the hospital❓
- The hospital is just a 5-minute drive from the US border.
How secure is the hospital location❓
- International hospitals for hip replacement are typically located in a safe and upscale area of the city with secure parking and 24-hour security.
What additional services do the medical centers in Mexico offer❓
- They offer additional services such as extended hospital stay and intensive care unit (ICU) stay, if necessary. You pay for them extra.
What is required from the patient to create a specific treatment plan for hip replacement❓
- The patient must provide their health history and a photo of the X-ray to create a specific treatment plan.
What is the purpose of the patient's history❓
- The patient history is essential to understand their needs and expectations and to see if they are candidates for the procedure.
How will the hospital communicate with the patient❓
- The hospital will communicate with the patient through email and will answer any questions or concerns the patient may have.
References
- A Scoping Review of Total Hip Arthroplasty Survival and Reoperation Rates in Patients of 55 Years or Younger: Health Services Implications for Revision Surgeries / A. M. Negm et al. Arthroplasty Today. 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.artd.2022.05.012 (date of access: 08.01.2025).
- A Closer Look at Medical Tourism in Latin America. Global Health Intelligence. URL: https://globalhealthintelligence.com/ghi-analysis/a-closer-look-at-medical-tourism-in-latin-america-2/ (date of access: 08.01.2025).
- Process of Posthospital Care Involving Telemedicine Solutions for Patients after Total Hip Arthroplasty / K. Kamecka et al. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021. Vol. 18, no. 19. P. 10135. URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910135 (date of access: 08.01.2025).
