Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

Knee Surgery Price Comparison: EU vs UK

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Choosing knee surgery abroad means access to the same high-quality implants used in the UK - but at a fraction of the cost. Patients also benefit from shorter wait times and often quicker recovery thanks to dedicated rehab support in modern clinics. With English-speaking staff, private airport pickup, and EU-accredited hospitals, it’s a safe and cost-effective alternative to long NHS delays or expensive private care.

For more information, read our full guide on knee replacement costs. 

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Total vs Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

When considering knee replacement surgery abroad, it's important to understand the difference between total and partial procedures – and which might be right for you.

Total knee replacement surgery abroad involves replacing all parts of the knee joint with a prosthetic implant. It’s typically recommended for patients with widespread joint damage due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or long-term injury. This procedure offers comprehensive pain relief and long-term mobility improvements.

Partial knee replacement surgery, sometimes called unicompartmental knee replacement, targets only the damaged portion of the knee – often the inner or outer compartment. It’s less invasive, preserves more of your natural bone and ligaments, and can lead to quicker recovery and a more natural-feeling knee. However, it’s suitable only for patients with damage limited to one area of the joint.

At Thera Travel, our partner clinics abroad offer both total and partial knee replacements using the latest surgical techniques and personalised care plans. During your consultation, we’ll help determine which option is best for your needs and lifestyle.

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What Recovery Looks Like After Total Knee Replacement

Recovery begins right away - carefully, and with the right support in place.

• Days 1–3: You’ll start walking (with help) within a day or two of surgery. Daily physiotherapy will begin in the clinic to get your new joint moving safely.
• Weeks 1–2: Swelling and stiffness start to ease. Movement becomes more comfortable, and you’ll gradually build confidence walking longer distances.
• Week 6: Most patients are back to light daily activities, including driving short distances. Your strength and balance will continue to improve.
• Long-term: Over the following months, you’ll see steady gains in mobility. For many, full recovery takes up to 12 months - but most feel a real difference within the first few weeks. 

To support your recovery, we offer:

• On-site physiotherapy while you're still in hospital involving knee replacement exercises.
• Optional hotel-based rehab packages after discharge
• Virtual follow-up check-ins with Thera once you’re home

Every recovery is different, but we’ll be with you every step of the way.

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Best Countries for Knee Replacement Surgery

For patients considering knee replacement abroad, Poland, Latvia, and Lithuania remain top destinations. These countries are home to respected orthopaedic centres known for their surgical quality, patient comfort, and affordability. You can learn more about our partner clinics below:

KCM Clinic – Jelenia Góra, Poland
Set in the picturesque spa town of Jelenia Góra, KCM Clinic is known for its modern surgical facilities and caring approach. Patients stay in spacious private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, enjoy daily on-site physiotherapy, and can even order restaurant-style meals during recovery.

ORTO Klīnika – Riga, Latvia
Latvia’s leading orthopaedic centre, ORTO Klīnika in Riga offers advanced joint surgery with excellent infection control and patient comfort. The team includes English-speaking consultants and physiotherapists, and the facility includes high-spec theatres and rehab zones.

Allmedica – Nowy Targ, Poland
In the foothills of the Tatra Mountains, Allmedica combines state-of-the-art treatment with personalised care. Patients benefit from private rooms, integrated physiotherapy, and smooth coordination from arrival to discharge.

All clinics are reachable via direct flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham, and other major UK cities. We arrange private airport pick-up and local transport, so your journey is smooth from start to finish.

Is Knee Replacement Overseas Safe?

Yes, knee replacement surgery abroad is safe. Safety is the most important consideration - and rightly so. When you choose Thera, you're choosing clinics that meet the same high standards you’d expect in the UK.

All our partner hospitals are EU-accredited and operate to strict medical guidelines. The orthopaedic surgeons we work with typically have 15+ years of experience and perform hundreds of joint replacements each year.

The implants used are exactly the same as those in UK hospitals - trusted brands like Zimmer Biomet, Stryker, and Johnson & Johnson. Clinics maintain robust infection control protocols, including laminar airflow in theatres, thorough sterilisation, and post-op monitoring.

You’ll also be supported throughout by English-speaking staff and local coordinators, so you’ll always know what’s happening and feel confident in your care.

“Everything was spotless - it felt like a private hospital in the UK.”
“I was nervous about going abroad, but I’m so glad I did. Flawless care.”
“Surgeon was top class and the nurses spoke perfect English - zero stress.”

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How to Book Your Total Knee Replacement Abroad

Getting started is simple - and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

1. Free Consultation
   Book a no-obligation call with a Thera expert. We’ll listen to your needs, answer your questions, and explain your options clearly.
2. Treatment Plan & Travel Dates
   Once you're ready to move forward, we’ll confirm your surgery dates, clinic, and travel plans. You’ll receive a detailed itinerary and treatment plan - so you know exactly what to expect.
3. Surgery & Recovery Abroad
   You’ll travel to your chosen clinic where everything is ready for your arrival. From pre-op tests to post-surgery physiotherapy, your care is fully managed on site.
4. Return Home with Aftercare
   Before flying home, you’ll receive a full discharge report, recovery advice, and your implant documentation. We’ll also check in with you afterwards to make sure everything is progressing well.

From first call to full recovery, Thera is here to support you.

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