Knee replacement (total knee arthroplasty) replaces a worn or damaged knee joint with an artificial joint, called an implant. It is usually for people with severe knee pain or stiffness, often from arthritis. Usually, other treatments such as medicines and physiotherapy have not helped enough. Some people need one knee replaced, and some need both. Before the hospital sends a quote, the surgeon reviews your knee X-rays, any MRI report, your other illnesses and your medicines. The implant type and brand change the price, so each quote should name the implant. The surgeon can explain the likely benefits and risks for you. The treating doctor decides whether knee replacement is right for you, and whether to replace one knee or both.
- Typical hospital stay
- 3–5 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 implant, 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 X-rays 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 checks that you are ready for surgery.
- You have the operation and usually stay in hospital for 3 to 5 days, with physiotherapy.
- After you leave hospital, you stay nearby for check-ups and physiotherapy. Plan for about 2 to 3 weeks in India in total.
- 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 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?
Most people stay in hospital for about 3 to 5 days. Plan to stay in India for about 2 to 3 weeks in total, for tests, surgery, check-ups and physiotherapy. Your surgeon may advise a different plan for you.
One Knee or Both Knees at the Same Time: Who Decides?
Your surgeon decides, after reviewing your reports and your general health. Having both knees replaced costs more and can mean a longer stay. Ask each hospital to quote for the plan its surgeon suggests.
Why Do Implant Brands Change the Price?
Knee implants come in different materials, designs and brands, and they cost different amounts. Each quote should name the implant it includes. If you want a different implant, ask the hospital for a new written quote.
Why Might My Final Bill Be Different from the Quote?
A quote is based on your reports. The final bill can change after the surgeon examines you in India. The main reasons are extra nights in hospital, a different implant, extra tests or a complication. Ask the hospital to explain any change in writing before it charges you.
Will I Need Physiotherapy After I Go Home?
Most people keep doing exercises at home as part of their recovery. Before you leave, ask the hospital physiotherapist for a written exercise plan. You can share it with a physiotherapist in your home country.
Can I Fly Home with a New Knee?
Yes, 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. Is the quote for one knee or both? Which implant type and brand is included? How many nights, and in what type of room? Are the surgeon and anaesthetist fees included? What happens to the cost if there is a complication? 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