ACL reconstruction is an operation to rebuild a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL is a strong band inside the knee that helps keep it steady. The surgeon usually replaces it with a piece of tendon, called a graft. This is often done through small cuts, using a tiny camera (keyhole surgery). It is often for people whose knee feels unstable or gives way, or who want to return to sport. Not everyone with a torn ACL needs surgery. Before the hospital sends a quote, the surgeon reviews your knee MRI report and images. The surgeon also asks how the injury happened and how active you are. The treating doctor decides whether ACL reconstruction is right for you.
- Typical hospital stay
- 1–2 days
- Total time in India
- 2–3 weeks
- Fit to fly
- Your surgeon decides when you can safely fly home, and how to lower the risk of blood clots on the flight. Check with your surgeon before you book your flight home.
Indicative Costs at Partner Hospitals
Each range is supplied by the named hospital. Your actual quote depends on your medical reports and choices such as implants.
No hospital has confirmed a current range for this treatment. Ask us for written quotes.
A hospital quote usually includes the operation, the named graft and fixing devices, your stay, and medicines and physiotherapy in hospital. It usually does not include flights, visa fees, a hotel after discharge, extra physiotherapy, extra nights, complications or extra tests. Ask the hospital to list both in writing.
Your Journey, Step by Step
- Before you travel, we send you a secure link for your knee MRI and medical reports.
- Two or three accredited hospitals review your reports and send written quotes. You choose one.
- The hospital you choose sends a letter for your medical visa. You book flights and a place to stay.
- When you arrive, the hospital does tests and the surgeon examines your knee.
- You have the operation and usually stay in hospital for 1 to 2 days.
- After you leave hospital, you stay nearby for about 2 weeks for check-ups and physiotherapy.
- Before you fly, the surgeon checks you and gives you a discharge summary, a medicines list and an exercise plan.
- At home, you keep doing your exercises with a physiotherapist and share your discharge summary with your local doctor.
Recovery, Step by Step
Ask the hospital what recovery support it offers, including physiotherapy and follow-up care after you leave.
Questions Families Ask About This Treatment
How Long Will I Stay in Hospital, and in India?
Plan for about 1 to 2 days in hospital. Plan to stay in India for about 2 to 3 weeks in total, for tests, surgery, check-ups and early physiotherapy. Your surgeon may advise a different plan for you.
Does Every Torn ACL Need Surgery?
Not always. Some people are offered physiotherapy instead. It depends on how steady the knee is, other damage in the knee and how active you are. Your surgeon decides after reviewing your MRI and examining your knee.
Which Reports Should I Get Ready?
Get your knee MRI report and images, any X-rays and a list of your medicines. Write down when and how the injury happened. The hospital will tell you if it needs more. We will send you a secure link, so please do not send reports on WhatsApp.
Why Might My Final Bill Be Different from the Quote?
A quote is based on your reports. During the operation, the surgeon may find other damage in the knee, such as torn cartilage, that needs extra repair. Extra nights, extra tests or a complication can also change the cost. Ask the hospital to explain any change in writing before it charges you.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery continues for many months after you go home, with regular physiotherapy exercises. Your surgeon and physiotherapist decide when you can go back to work, driving or sport. Ask for a written exercise plan before you leave India.
When Can I Fly Home?
When your surgeon says you are fit to fly. Ask your surgeon which seat suits you and how to lower the risk of blood clots on the flight. Carry your discharge summary in your hand luggage.
Can a Family Member Come with Me and Stay with Me?
Ask the hospital whether a family member can stay in your room, and whether their meals cost extra. Under Government of India e-Visa rules, up to 2 family members can get e-Medical Attendant visas with your e-Medical visa. Source: indianvisaonline.gov.in, checked on 15 September 2026.
What Should I Ask the Hospital About My Quote?
Ask these questions. Which graft and fixing devices are included? Is a knee brace included? How many nights, and in what type of room? Are the surgeon and anaesthetist fees included? What happens to the cost if the surgeon repairs other damage in the knee? How long is the quote valid?
This page is general information, not medical advice. Whether a treatment is right for you is decided by the treating doctor after reviewing your reports.
Page reviewed: 15 September 2026