Tijuana is a top destination for orthopedic surgery for many U.S. patients seeking lower costs and faster scheduling. This article explains how to choose a qualified provider, verify credentials, prepare for the Mexico–U.S. border crossing, bring necessary documentation, and plan safe postoperative recovery and follow-up across the border.
Why Tijuana for Orthopedic Surgery and How to Choose a Provider
Choosing to travel for major surgery is a significant decision that many Americans now face due to rising healthcare costs. As of late 2025, the trend of seeking orthopedic care in Tijuana remains strong because the price difference is impossible to ignore. A total hip replacement in the United States often carries a price tag of $45,000, while the same procedure in Tijuana costs around $10,750. Knee replacements show even steeper gaps, with U.S. prices hitting $50,000 compared to roughly $7,000 in Mexico. These savings of 80 to 85 percent allow patients to access high-quality care without the burden of medical debt. Beyond the financial aspect, many patients find that they can schedule their surgery within weeks rather than waiting months for an opening in a local hospital. Some also seek out specific surgeons in Tijuana who have extensive experience with particular implants or minimally invasive techniques that might be less accessible at home.
Understanding the Risks and Safety Standards
While the benefits are clear, patients must acknowledge the inherent risks of medical travel. Regulation in some smaller clinics may not match the strict standards of large accredited hospitals. However, top-tier facilities in Tijuana often mirror the standards found in major U.S. medical centers, maintaining success rates for joint replacements above 95 percent. Complications can happen during any surgery, and managing them becomes more complex when you are in a different country. There is also the challenge of follow-up care once you return home. Most U.S. doctors are hesitant to take over the care of a patient who had surgery abroad due to liability concerns. This makes it vital to choose a provider who offers a clear plan for postoperative support and maintains open communication with your local healthcare team.
How to Select a Surgeon
The first step in your journey is a deep dive into the credentials of your potential surgeon. You should start by verifying their medical school and residency training. Most top-tier orthopedic surgeons in Tijuana have completed their education at major Mexican universities, and many have pursued fellowships in the United States or Europe. You must check if the surgeon is board certified by the Mexican Council of Orthopedics and Traumatology (CONOT). This certification ensures they have met the national standards for expertise in their field. Additionally, verify their medical license, known as a “Cedula Profesional.” You can often verify these licenses through official Mexican government portals or by asking the surgical coordinator for direct links to the board registry. A surgeon like Dr. Gino Perretta at Oasis Orthopedics is a good example of a provider who shares his educational background and board status openly. This level of transparency is what you should look for in any provider.
Evaluating the Hospital Facility
The facility where your surgery takes place is just as important as the person holding the scalpel. You should prioritize hospitals with international accreditations such as the Joint Commission International (JCI). This certification means the hospital follows global standards for patient safety and infection control. Hospital Ángeles Tijuana is a well-known facility that holds JCI accreditation and handles thousands of international patients every year. You should also look for COFEPRIS certification, which is the Mexican health authority equivalent to the FDA. Ask for recent infection control records and request actual photos of the operating rooms and recovery suites. Reviewing patient testimonials and before-and-after case documentation can provide insight into the typical outcomes at the facility. Pay close attention to how the hospital handles hygiene and patient monitoring during the first 48 hours after surgery.
Essential Documents and Implant Details
Before you commit to any procedure or send a deposit, you need a complete information package from the provider. This package should include the surgeon’s full curriculum vitae and links to their board verification. You must also ask for the specific brand and model of the implant they plan to use. Most reputable Tijuana surgeons use global brands like Zimmer Biomet, Stryker, or Smith & Nephew. Having this information is critical so your local doctor can assist you if the implant ever needs maintenance in the future. Upon discharge, you should request the “implant card” or a sticker from the device packaging containing the serial number to keep in your permanent records. Request a written quote that itemizes every single fee. This quote should cover the surgeon’s fee, the anesthesiologist, the cost of the implant, the hospital stay, and initial physiotherapy sessions. You should also know the expected length of stay and the facility’s typical complication rates for your specific procedure.
| Procedure Type | Typical Tijuana Cost | Typical U.S. Cost | Estimated Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knee Replacement | $7,000 – $13,000 | $50,000 | 86% |
| Hip Replacement | $10,750 – $14,000 | $45,000 | 80% |
| ACL Reconstruction | $6,000 – $7,700 | $35,000 | 78% |
| Spinal Fusion | $10,200 – $15,000 | $45,000+ | 75% |
The Role of Virtual Consultations
Modern technology makes it easier to vet your surgeon before traveling. Most high-quality clinics offer virtual consultations through telemedicine platforms. During these meetings, you can discuss your medical history and review your imaging results. You will need to share your records using secure file transfers or by sending DICOM files from your recent X-rays or MRI scans. This allows the surgeon to confirm that you are a good candidate for the procedure. It is also your chance to gauge their communication style and see if they answer your questions directly. If a surgeon seems rushed or unwilling to discuss the specifics of your case during a video call, it is a sign you should look elsewhere.
Identifying Red Flags
You must stay alert for warning signs during the selection process. A major red flag is an unwillingness to provide references or professional credentials. If a clinic offers aggressive lowball pricing that seems significantly lower than other reputable providers, be cautious. This often indicates that they are cutting corners on the quality of the implants or the level of nursing care. Another serious concern is any pressure to skip necessary preoperative testing. A safe surgical plan requires blood work, EKG results, and a thorough physical assessment. If a provider tells you these steps are unnecessary, they are prioritizing profit over your safety. Lack of clear information about the implant brand or a refusal to provide a signed, itemized contract are also reasons to walk away.
Planning Your Timeline and Length of Stay
You should allow at least four to eight weeks for the selection and planning phase. This gives you enough time to consult with multiple providers, verify their credentials, and coordinate with your local doctor. Orthopedic patients should not rush home; the risk of blood clots increases during long periods of immobility, such as sitting in a car or on a plane. Most surgeons recommend staying in Tijuana for at least 7 to 14 days after a major joint replacement to allow the medical team to monitor initial healing. Use the following table to understand typical stay requirements:
| Procedure Type | Hospital Nights | Total Days in Tijuana |
|---|---|---|
| Knee Replacement | 3 to 4 nights | 10 to 14 days |
| Hip Replacement | 3 to 4 nights | 10 to 14 days |
| Spine Surgery | 4 to 6 nights | 14 days |
| ACL Reconstruction | 2 to 3 nights | 7 days |
Once you have chosen a surgeon and a hospital, you should receive a final checklist of documents before you travel. This list includes your operative plan, signed consent forms, and a pre-anesthesia assessment. You should also have the contact information for a U.S.-based liaison if the hospital provides one. Having these documents in hand ensures that you are fully prepared for the logistics of the Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico | 85% Savings! experience.
Border Crossing, Documentation, and Recovery Planning
Navigating the logistics of a medical trip to Mexico requires more than just booking a flight. When you head to Tijuana for a major procedure like a hip or knee replacement, the border crossing becomes a central part of your surgical plan. Most patients enter through the San Ysidro port of entry. This is the primary gateway between San Diego and Tijuana. It is located very close to the Zona Rio district. Many of the top hospitals and surgical centers sit within a few miles of this crossing. You can cross by car or use the pedestrian lanes. If you are traveling by vehicle, the Otay Mesa port of entry is another option. It is often less congested for cars than San Ysidro.
Border Logistics and Port Selection
Choosing Your Port of Entry
The San Ysidro crossing is convenient for patients staying at facilities like Hospital Angeles. It handles a high volume of traffic every day. If you are walking across, the pedestrian bridge leads you directly to a taxi and shuttle area. For those driving or being transported by a medical van, Otay Mesa might offer a smoother experience. You should check the current status and hours for each port before you leave. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website provides live wait times, and their mobile app gives real-time updates. This tool is essential for planning your return trip after surgery when you want to minimize time spent sitting in a vehicle. Ask your hospital if they provide a “FastLane” or medical pass. This pass allows medical tourists to use a designated lane at the San Ysidro crossing, significantly reducing wait times.
Trusted Traveler Programs
Programs like SENTRI can significantly reduce your wait time at the border. SENTRI allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to use dedicated lanes. If you have a SENTRI pass, the crossing might take only minutes instead of hours. However, you cannot apply for SENTRI just for this trip as the approval process takes months. The Ready Lane is another option for those with high-tech travel documents, such as passport cards with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chips. Using these lanes requires everyone in the vehicle to have a compliant card. If you do not have these memberships, plan for a longer wait. This is especially important on your way back to the United States after your procedure. If a delay occurs, ensure you have extra pain medication, water, and a pillow to support your surgical site in the car.
Essential Travel Documentation
Requirements for U.S. Citizens
You must have valid identification to re-enter the United States. A passport book is the gold standard for international travel. A passport card is also acceptable for land crossings and is smaller and easier to carry. Make sure your documents are valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. If you are a permanent resident, you need to carry your green card (I-551) along with a valid government-issued ID. Foreign nationals must follow specific visa rules or obtain an ESTA depending on their country of origin. Keep a physical folder with your surgical discharge papers and a letter from your surgeon. This documentation helps explain your physical condition to CBP officers if you are using a wheelchair or medical transport.
Managing Medications and Controlled Substances
Documentation for Prescriptions
Bringing medication across the border involves strict rules. You must keep all drugs in their original pharmacy bottles. The labels must be intact and clearly show your name and the prescribing doctor. It is vital to carry a signed letter from your physician detailing every medication, the specific doses, and the medical necessity for each one. This documentation helps during inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and if you are stopped by Mexican authorities.
Restrictions and Controlled Drugs
Be very careful with pain medications. Many orthopedic patients require controlled substances for recovery. You should contact the Mexican health authority, COFEPRIS, to check for restrictions on specific drugs. Some medications that are legal in the U.S. may have different rules in Mexico. Generally, you should only bring a short-term supply that covers the duration of your trip. If you try to bring large quantities, you may face questioning or seizure of the medicine. When returning to the U.S., you must declare all medications to the CBP officer. While you can generally bring a 90-day supply of non-controlled medication, controlled substances are often limited to 50 dosage units and require a valid prescription. You might be sent to a secondary inspection area to verify your surgical records and prescriptions.
Insurance and Financial Planning
The Reality of Coverage
Standard U.S. health insurance plans rarely pay for elective surgery in Mexico. Medicare does not cover any medical costs outside of the United States. You should call your insurance provider to ask about “international riders” or specific coverage for medical tourism. In most cases, you will be paying for the surgery out of pocket. Many patients find that Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico | 85% Savings! makes the total cost much lower than a U.S. deductible. However, you still need to protect yourself against emergencies.
Supplemental Insurance and Evacuation
It is a good idea to purchase international medical insurance. This can cover unexpected issues that are not part of the surgical package. You should also look into medical evacuation coverage. This type of insurance pays for emergency transport back to a U.S. hospital if a serious complication occurs. Arranging a plan for emergency repatriation gives you peace of mind. Without it, a medical flight home could cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Recovery and Transportation Arrangements
Post-Operative Transport and Rehab
How you get home after surgery depends on your procedure. High-risk patients or those who had complex spine surgery should arrange for private medical transport. Some hospitals provide an ambulance service for the border crossing to ensure you stay in a controlled environment. Physical therapy is not optional for orthopedic success; it usually starts the day after surgery and continues for 6 to 12 weeks. You can choose to start your rehab in Tijuana with a local therapist or wait until you return home. If you plan to recover in the U.S., schedule your first physical therapy appointment before you leave for Mexico and ensure your Mexican surgeon provides a detailed physical therapy protocol in writing.
Choosing a Recovery Location
You have several options for the days following your discharge. Some patients stay in Tijuana at specialized recovery housing. These “casitas” often have nursing staff, prepared meals, and are designed for orthopedic recovery. Others choose to stay in a hotel in San Diego, putting them back on the U.S. side of the border immediately. If you live alone, a recovery house in Tijuana might be safer. If you have a caregiver at home in the U.S., returning early might be more comfortable. Make sure you have copies of your surgical notes and imaging on a DICOM CD so your local physical therapist can see exactly what the surgeon did.
Pre-Departure Checklist and Costs
Final Preparations
Before you leave, gather all your paperwork into one folder. Include your passport, surgical plan, and consent forms. Bring copies of your recent lab results and imaging. It helps to have these documents translated into Spanish, though many Tijuana surgeons speak perfect English. Keep a list of local emergency contacts. This should include the hospital, your driver, and a U.S.-based liaison if one is available. Verify the payment methods accepted by the hospital. Most require a deposit before you arrive. They usually accept major credit cards or cash. Be sure to verify the refund and revision policies in writing. Knowing the financial rules helps avoid stress during your recovery.
Conclusions and Next Steps
Choosing to travel for orthopedic surgery is a major life decision that requires a shift in how you view healthcare. By now, you have seen the numbers and the logistics. The financial relief is real. Saving 80 percent on a hip replacement or 86 percent on a knee replacement can change your financial future. In late 2025, a knee replacement in the United States often hits $50,000 while the same procedure in Tijuana sits around $7,000. These savings are the primary driver for the thousands of patients who cross the San Ysidro or Otay Mesa ports every month. However, the lower price tag comes with a different kind of cost. You are trading the convenience of local care for the responsibility of being your own patient advocate and travel coordinator.
The balance of cost savings versus risk management is the most important takeaway. You are not just buying a surgery. You are investing in a process that includes international travel, foreign legal systems, and different medical cultures. Success depends on your willingness to do the homework. High-quality care exists in Tijuana at facilities like Hospital Angeles or Oasis Orthopedics, but it is up to you to find the right fit. You must weigh the benefit of a $10,750 hip replacement against the effort of arranging medical evacuation insurance and post-operative physical therapy back home. If you approach this with a mindset of thorough preparation, the risks become manageable. If you rush because of the price, the risks increase. This journey is about finding the intersection of affordability and safety.
Prioritized Checklist for Your Next Steps
Verify Credentials and Accreditation
Your first task is to look beyond the website photos. You need to confirm that your surgeon is board certified by the Mexican Council of Orthopedics and Traumatology. This is the gold standard for orthopedic specialists in Mexico. You should also check the hospital accreditation. Look for the Joint Commission International seal or COFEPRIS certification. For example, Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico | 85% Savings! highlights the importance of using certified surgeons at top hospitals. Do not take a coordinator’s word for it. Ask for the surgeon’s license number and verify it through official Mexican government portals. This step ensures that the person operating on your spine or joints has the required training and legal standing to perform the work.
Get a Detailed Written Surgical Plan and Itemized Quote
Never agree to a surgery based on a verbal price or a single-line email. You need a document that lists every expected expense. This includes the surgeon fee, the anesthesiologist fee, and the cost of the specific implant brand. It should also cover the hospital stay, medications, and any planned physical therapy sessions. If the quote is $13,000 for a knee replacement at a place like Oasis Orthopedics, make sure you know exactly how many nights in the hospital that covers. Ask what happens if you need an extra night. Having this in writing prevents financial surprises and ensures that the medical team has a clear plan for your specific case before you arrive.
Confirm Passport and Entry Documents
The border rules in late 2025 are strict. U.S. citizens should have a valid passport book or a passport card for land crossings. If you have a SENTRI card, ensure it is active to help speed up your return. You will also need a medical letter from your surgeon in Tijuana. This letter should explain the procedure you had and the medications you are carrying. It helps U.S. Customs and Border Protection understand why you might be moving slowly or why you have a supply of pain relief drugs. Check the current wait times at San Ysidro through the CBP app before you head to the border. Being stuck in a three-hour line while recovering from hip surgery is something you want to avoid through good timing.
Arrange Travel Insurance and Medical Evacuation Coverage
Standard U.S. health insurance and Medicare typically do not cover elective surgeries in Mexico. You must assume that you are paying out of pocket for the procedure. However, you should not travel without specialized medical travel insurance. This is different from regular trip cancellation insurance. You need a policy that specifically covers complications arising from surgery abroad. More importantly, secure medical evacuation coverage. If a serious complication occurs and you need to be moved to a U.S. hospital, an air ambulance can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Having a policy in place protects your savings from being wiped out by an emergency.
Plan Transportation and Post-Op Recovery
Recovery does not start when you get home. It starts the moment you leave the operating room. You need to decide if you will stay in a Tijuana recovery boutique, a hotel, or return to the U.S. immediately. Most surgeons recommend staying in the area for 7 to 14 days after a major joint replacement. This allows for initial wound healing and the first few sessions of physical therapy. Arrange for a driver who is experienced with medical tourists. They know how to navigate the border lanes gently. If you are staying at a facility like Oasis Orthopedics, they often include hospital stays in their packages to ensure you are monitored during the most critical days.
Secure Follow-Up Arrangements with Both Clinicians
One of the biggest mistakes patients make is failing to plan for care after they return home. You need a doctor in the U.S. who is willing to see you for follow-up visits and remove stitches or monitor your progress. Some U.S. doctors are hesitant to take on patients who had surgery abroad. Find your local partner before you leave for Mexico. Share your Tijuana surgeon’s contact information with them. You should also ensure you receive a full copy of your surgical reports, implant serial numbers, and imaging on a DICOM disc. This documentation is vital for your long-term health records and any future care you might need in the U.S. medical system.
As you move forward, keep in mind that regulations and border policies can change quickly. Always consult official agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection or the Mexican health authority COFEPRIS for the most up-to-date rules regarding travel and medications. Before you book any surgery, consider a trial virtual consultation. Most top-tier Tijuana clinics offer telemedicine appointments where you can speak directly with the surgeon and review your X-rays. Getting a second opinion from a local U.S. doctor is also a smart move. It helps you understand the full scope of your condition and ensures that surgery is truly the best path for your mobility and health.
References
- Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico | 85% Savings! — Get orthopedic surgery in Tijuana, Mexico for 15% of the US cost. Get surgery from a certified surgeon at the best hospitals.
- Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico – Top Clinics and Cost — " As of June 2025, Tijuana's medical tourism sector continues to be a bustling hub … Success Rates and Expected Outcomes in Tijuana's Orthopedic Surgery.
- Oasis Orthopedics: Orthopedic Surgeon Tijuana, Mexico — Our Tijuana, Mexico, orthopedic practice offers a wide range of surgical procedures, including hip replacement surgery, ACL surgery, and spine surgery.
- Affordable Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico: Save Big Today — Patients typically save 40% to 70% on orthopedic procedures in Mexico, even after accounting for travel expenses. A total knee replacement that …
- Everything You Need to Know About Orthopedics in Mexico – heva — Orthopedic surgeries such as knee and hip replacement in Mexico City, Tijuana, Guadalajara and Cancun often cost 30–70% less than in the …
- Orthopedic Specialists in Tijuana – Safe & Affordable Care — Affordable Treatment. Orthopedic surgeries in Tijuana often cost 50–70% less than in the U.S. For example, an ACL reconstruction may cost $6,000 compared to …
- Medical tourism is down in Baja California, industry reps say — Medical tourists can save from 30% to 80% on procedures ranging from cardiac surgery to orthopedics to plastic surgery, Mauricio Reyes Morales …
- Mexico Orthopedic Devices Market Report – IMARC Group — The Mexico orthopedic devices market size reached USD 1,190.91 Million in 2024. The market is projected to reach USD 1,971.39 Million by 2033, exhibiting a …
- Medical Tourism Orthopedic Mexico: Procedures, and Costs — Orthopedic surgery in Mexico can cost 65-80% less than in the US, with prices for surgeries like knee or hip replacements starting around USD …
- Mexico Medical Tourism Market Size, Growth and Forecast 2032 — Mexico Medical Tourism Market size was valued at USD 431.74 million in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 1153.02 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 13.06% …
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