Orthopaedics

Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

Living with knee pain can make everyday tasks exhausting - from walking up stairs to getting out of bed in the morning. If you're facing long NHS wait times or have been told to wait months for surgery, you're not alone. Many in the UK and Ireland are in the same position: in pain, with no clear timeline for relief.
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Thera Travel Doctors
4.2

Star Reviews

Better Care Than the NHS, at Half the Price
I travelled to Kraków for a total knee replacement after waiting 18 months on the NHS list. The clinic was spotless, the staff all spoke excellent English, and the surgeon was clearly experienced. I was walking with a frame by day two. The physiotherapy was more intensive than I expected, which helped with recovery. Including travel and hotel, it still cost less than going private in the UK. Highly recommended.
David R. (Manchester)
Country Visited: Poland
Hip Replacement in Riga – No Regrets
After doing quite a bit of research, I booked a hip replacement in Riga. The hospital looked more like a hotel, and the nursing care was exceptional. I had a private room with a view over the river. Communication was good throughout, with a coordinator who handled airport transfers and appointments. It's now three months later and I’m back to gardening. Would choose Latvia again over private UK care.
Sandra T. (London)
Country Visited: Latvia
Professional, Efficient, and No Hidden Costs
Had my right knee replaced in Warsaw after a friend recommended the clinic. Everything was as described—pre-surgery scans, consultation, surgery, and rehab—all done in under two weeks. No upselling, no unexpected fees. I appreciated how transparent the pricing was compared to some UK providers. Very impressed.
Michael B. (Glasgow)
Country Visited: Poland
Quick Recovery and Excellent Follow-Up
I was nervous about travelling for surgery, but my experience in Latvia was reassuring from start to finish. The surgeon explained everything clearly, and the physiotherapy team worked with me daily. I even had video follow-ups after returning to the UK. I’m walking unaided now, which I hadn’t done properly in over a year. Thank you to the whole team in Riga.
Carolyn M. (Leeds)
Country Visited: Latvia
Superior to My Local NHS Hospital
Opted for hip replacement in Gdańsk due to the NHS backlog. What struck me most was the attention to detail and the level of care. From airport pickup to post-op physiotherapy, everything ran smoothly. They even arranged a companion room for my wife. I had less swelling than after my previous surgery in the UK. Would definitely go abroad again if needed.
James E. (Birmingham)
Country Visited: Poland

Why Choose

Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

When you choose to have your knee replacement abroad with Thera, you’re choosing timely care without compromise. Everything you need is included - from your hospital treatment to your recovery journey.

Swift Scheduling

You’ll be treated at one of our trusted EU partner clinics, using the same world-class implants found in top UK hospitals - names like Zimmer Biomet, Stryker, and Johnson & Johnson.

Save up to 65 %

All inclusive packages from £4,000 compared to £15,000 privately in the UK

EU-Regulated Quality

ISO-certified clinics follow strict EU hygiene and safety standards.

Trusted Surgeons

GMC-registered consultants with NHS experience perform the surgery.

All-Inclusive Care

From hotel accommodation for your companion to post-discharge physio support in a nearby hotel. All the details are taken care of. You just focus on getting back to pain-free movement.

What happens during

Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

0
1
2
3
4
5
01

Day 1

You’ll arrive at the clinic for pre-op tests and meet your surgical team. They’ll explain the procedure, check everything is in order, and answer any final questions.

02

Surgery

The operation usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s done under spinal or general anaesthetic, depending on what’s best for you.

03

Implants

Your worn-out joint will be replaced with a high-quality prosthetic - we only use trusted brands like Zimmer Biomet and Stryker.

04

Hospital Stay

You’ll stay in the clinic for 5 to 7 nights. Nurses and physiotherapists will be with you throughout to help you move, manage pain, and start your recovery.

05

Discharge

Before you leave, you’ll get a personalised recovery plan, physio goals, wound care instructions, and full documentation of your implant.

Knee Surgery Price Comparison: EU vs UK

Country
Average Cost (£)
Cost Range (£)
Savings vs UK Private (%)
UK Private
15,138
11,400 - 17,840
-
Hungary
3,977
3,500 - 4,500
74%
Poland
4,000
3,600 - 4,800
74%
Lithuania
7,000
6,500 - 7,500
54%
Latvia
6,800
6,300 - 7,300
55%

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

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.

Where Will I Go?

Thera Travel partners with a select group of trusted clinics across Europe, each offering high standards of care, modern facilities, and a focus on patient comfort.

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.”

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.

“From the first inquiry to flying home, the support was exceptional.”
“Clean, efficient, friendly. I wish I’d gone abroad sooner.”
“Top-class care for half the price of UK surgery.”
“From the moment I landed, an English-speaking nurse met me at arrivals, and I had my first physio session within 24 hours of surgery. I never felt rushed - just cared for.”

– Mark L.

29-year-old five-a-side footballer
(ACL reconstruction, Poland)
“Before I travelled to Latvia for my knee surgery, I was hesitant. But honestly, it felt more like checking into a hotel than a hospital. My room was private and spotless, with a big window and meals brought in three times a day. It was quiet, calm, and the staff couldn’t have been more attentive. That level of comfort helped me recover quickly, and I never felt rushed out the door.”
“Is it safe?”“I had the same question. But after speaking with my care coordinator and reading about the clinic’s certifications, I felt reassured. The hospital in Poland was modern and far cleaner than the NHS ward I’d visited previously. My surgeon explained everything clearly, and all the nurses spoke fluent English. By the time I left, I felt I’d received care that matched,or exceeded,what I could have had in the UK.”
“Before going to Latvia for my hip replacement, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But it honestly felt more like staying at a hotel. My private room was spotless, meals were delivered to my bedside, and everything was calm and well-organised. The attention to comfort made a real difference in my recovery.”
“Is it safe?” “I wondered the same. But after reviewing the clinic’s credentials and talking to the coordinator, I was confident. The hospital in Poland was cleaner and more modern than the NHS ward I’d seen. My surgeon took time to explain every step, and the nursing staff spoke fluent English. By the end of my stay, I felt fully informed and very well looked after.”
(Former patients provide more stories on our Trustpilot page.)

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⁠Is Orthopaedic treatment abroad safe?

Better Care Than the NHS, at Half the Price
I travelled to Kraków for a total knee replacement after waiting 18 months on the NHS list. The clinic was spotless, the staff all spoke excellent English, and the surgeon was clearly experienced. I was walking with a frame by day two. The physiotherapy was more intensive than I expected, which helped with recovery. Including travel and hotel, it still cost less than going private in the UK. Highly recommended.
David R. (Manchester)
Country Visited:Poland
Hip Replacement in Riga – No Regrets
After doing quite a bit of research, I booked a hip replacement in Riga. The hospital looked more like a hotel, and the nursing care was exceptional. I had a private room with a view over the river. Communication was good throughout, with a coordinator who handled airport transfers and appointments. It's now three months later and I’m back to gardening. Would choose Latvia again over private UK care.
Sandra T. (London)
Country Visited:Latvia
Professional, Efficient, and No Hidden Costs
Had my right knee replaced in Warsaw after a friend recommended the clinic. Everything was as described—pre-surgery scans, consultation, surgery, and rehab—all done in under two weeks. No upselling, no unexpected fees. I appreciated how transparent the pricing was compared to some UK providers. Very impressed.
Michael B. (Glasgow)
Country Visited:Poland
Quick Recovery and Excellent Follow-Up
I was nervous about travelling for surgery, but my experience in Latvia was reassuring from start to finish. The surgeon explained everything clearly, and the physiotherapy team worked with me daily. I even had video follow-ups after returning to the UK. I’m walking unaided now, which I hadn’t done properly in over a year. Thank you to the whole team in Riga.
Carolyn M. (Leeds)
Country Visited:Latvia
Superior to My Local NHS Hospital
Opted for hip replacement in Gdańsk due to the NHS backlog. What struck me most was the attention to detail and the level of care. From airport pickup to post-op physiotherapy, everything ran smoothly. They even arranged a companion room for my wife. I had less swelling than after my previous surgery in the UK. Would definitely go abroad again if needed.
James E. (Birmingham)
Country Visited:Poland

Our Orthopaedic Treatments

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Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

Hip pain and limited mobility can severely impact daily life, making simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting a struggle. For those suffering from arthritis, injuries, or joint problems, the pain can feel relentless. But there's good news—hip replacement surgery offers a solution.
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Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Abroad

Arthroscopic (or keyhole) knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pain, stiffness, or limited mobility caused by issues like torn cartilage, ligament damage, or loose bone fragments inside the joint. With Thera Travel, you can skip NHS waiting lists and access fast, expert care at leading European clinics - featuring modern facilities, English-speaking specialists, and treatment that meets strict international standards. All at significantly lower cost than in the UK, with full support from consultation to recovery.
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High Tibial Osteotomy Surgery Abroad

Living with persistent knee pain due to arthritis or joint misalignment can make everyday life frustrating. For many in the UK, the wait to get high tibial osteotomy (HTO) surgery on the NHS stretches into months, sometimes longer. HTO surgery is a joint-preserving procedure that realigns the knee to reduce pressure on the damaged area, easing pain and delaying or avoiding a full knee replacement. If you're waiting too long or facing high private costs, Thera Travel offers a trusted way forward.
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ACL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad

Waiting months - sometimes longer - for knee surgery can feel unbearable when every step, twist, or unexpected wobble reminds you that your joint isn’t stable. UK waiting-list backlogs mean many active people are left sidelined, anxious about worsening cartilage damage and the risk of arthritis down the line. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a precision procedure that replaces the torn ligament - usually with a small tendon graft from your hamstring or patella - so the knee can regain full stability and range of motion.
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Hip Arthroscopy Surgery Abroad

If you've been told your hip pain will "settle over time" or you've been left waiting with only exercises and no progress, you're not alone. Many NHS patients face long delays and limited options, even when dealing with clear joint damage like impingement or labral tears.