Knee Prosthesis Surgery Prices 2026: Robotic Procedure Costs

Knee Replacement Surgery: What Is It?

Knee replacement surgery is a surgical treatment method applied to patients experiencing severe pain, restricted movement, and loss of function in the knee joint. During the surgery, worn or damaged cartilage and bone surfaces are removed and replaced with an artificial joint composed of metal and plastic components. Through this procedure, patients have the opportunity to be relieved of pain and regain their mobility.

Knee replacement surgery is particularly evaluated in patients with severe wear and damage to the knee joint due to advanced age, excess weight, previous trauma, genetic factors, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Although this surgery is generally preferred in patients over 55 years of age, it can also be performed in younger patients with severe knee problems following doctor evaluation. In knee problems encountered at younger ages, medication therapy and physical therapy options are typically tried first.

In this article, you can find general information about frequently asked questions regarding knee replacement surgery, robotic surgical methods, the recovery process, and 2026 price ranges.

What Are the Types of Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgeries can be performed using different methods depending on the extent of damage in the patient's knee and the doctor's evaluation:

Total Knee Replacement: This is the most common method in which all surfaces of the knee joint are replaced with an artificial joint. It is preferred in cases of advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis affecting all areas of the knee, with extensive wear in the cartilage, bone tissue, meniscus, and ligaments.

Partial (Unicondylar) Knee Replacement: This is performed when wear occurs only in a specific and limited area of the knee joint. As it is a less invasive method, the recovery period may be shorter and the risk of complications may be lower in suitable patients.

Revision Knee Replacement: This is performed when a previously applied knee prosthesis reaches the end of its lifespan, becomes loose, or does not produce the expected results. The old prosthesis is removed and replaced with a new one.

The decision regarding which method will be used is made by the doctor following detailed examination of the patient and radiological imaging.

How Is Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?

The knee replacement surgery process generally includes the following steps:

• All tests and examinations are performed before surgery, and the patient's medical history is evaluated. Any conditions that could hinder surgery are identified and addressed at this stage.
• Detailed radiological imaging determines the extent and nature of the damage in the knee.
• Based on the condition of the damage, the treatment method to be applied (total, partial, or revision) is selected.
• For patients using blood thinners, the medication dose is adjusted under doctor supervision before surgery.
• On the day of surgery, general or spinal/local anesthesia is administered before the procedure begins.
• An incision made over the knee allows access to the joint surface, damaged cartilage and bone tissue is cleaned, and the joint surfaces are smoothed.
• The artificial joint composed of metal and plastic components is properly positioned and secured to the bones, and surgery is completed.

The duration of surgery may vary depending on the extent of the patient's knee damage, the treatment method applied, and possible complications. For this reason, it is not appropriate to provide a fixed duration for each surgery; on average, this surgery lasts between 2-3 hours.

What Are the Advantages of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

With advancing technology, robotic surgical methods have begun to be used in knee replacement surgeries. In robotic knee replacement surgery, advanced surgical techniques and computer-assisted planning systems come into play.

Some features offered by this method include:

• The ability to perform millimetric calculations before and during surgery, which can help position the prosthesis in a manner more compatible with the knee's anatomical structure.
• Higher precision is targeted in the incision and placement stages.
• Positive results can be observed in terms of comfort and durability of the correctly positioned prosthesis.

The results of robotic surgery vary from patient to patient; the suitability of the method is determined by the doctor following preoperative evaluation.

How Long Does Knee Replacement Surgery Take to Heal?

The recovery period following knee replacement surgery may vary depending on the patient's age, general health status, and the extent of the surgery. Generally, the process progresses as follows:

• Immediately after surgery, the patient can get up and begin walking with the aid of a walker.
• By the end of the first week, a patient moving with crutches can generally reach a level where they need only one crutch within about a week.
• Independent walking is generally possible within 3-4 weeks.
• The complete recovery period may vary between an average of 6-12 weeks; in some patients, this period may extend up to 3-6 months.
• Experiencing pain and swelling in the first few days of recovery is normal; during this period, pain relievers and cold compress applications recommended by the doctor can provide relief.
• After approximately 2 months, return to daily activities such as driving can begin; however, these timeframes vary from person to person.

During this period, regularly following the exercise program recommended by the doctor and physiotherapist and attending control appointments supports the recovery process.

What Are the Possible Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery?

Like any surgical procedure, knee replacement surgery carries certain risks. Although modern technology and surgical experience help reduce these risks, the following conditions may occur during or after surgery:

• Adverse reactions to general or spinal anesthesia
• Injury to blood vessels and nerves in the knee (low probability)
• Risk of infection
• Risk of blood clot (thrombosis)
• Loosening of the prosthesis over time
• Restriction or stiffness in knee movements

Symptoms of infection after surgery include redness, swelling, pain, fever, discharge, weakness, and loss of appetite. If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is important to consult a doctor without delay.

Things to Do After Knee Replacement Surgery

Some points that patients should pay attention to for healthy progression of the recovery period following surgery include:

• Regularly taking pain relievers and other medications recommended by the doctor
• Starting physical therapy and rehabilitation on time and continuing exercises regularly
• Not overstraining the knee and avoiding lifting heavy weights
• Using crutches or walking support when necessary
• Paying attention to the hygiene of the surgery area and being vigilant about infection signs
• Not missing doctor appointments

Exercises After Knee Replacement

The physical therapy and exercise program after knee replacement surgery aims to support return to active life by giving the knee strength and mobility. Among the basic objectives of exercises are increasing the knee's range of motion, strengthening surrounding muscles, improving balance and coordination, and reducing pain.

The exercise process generally progresses in three stages:

Early stage (1-2 weeks): Simple movements that protect the knee are started under physiotherapist supervision.

Middle stage (2-4 weeks): Progress is made to exercises aimed at increasing the knee's range of motion and muscle strength, which can generally also be done at home.

Late stage (4-12 weeks): Focus is placed on further developing range of motion and muscle strength, as well as balance and coordination exercises.

Common examples of exercises include ankle movements, knee bending and straightening exercises, knee-to-chest movements, and stretching exercises for hamstring and quadriceps muscles. All exercises should be performed under the guidance of a doctor or physiotherapist, with gradually increasing intensity; if pain is felt during exercise, the movement should be stopped.

Nutrition Recommendations After Knee Replacement

It is recommended to pay attention to nutrition to support the recovery process:

• Adequate protein intake is important for the body to repair itself; meat, chicken, fish, dairy products, eggs, and legumes can be preferred for this purpose.
• Vitamin C supports the immune system and wound healing; citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, broccoli, and peppers can be consumed.
• Attention should be paid to calcium and vitamin D intake for bone health; dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and sunlight are supportive in this regard.
• To prevent constipation related to immobility after surgery, the consumption of fiber-rich foods (whole wheat products, vegetables, fruits, dried legumes) can be increased.
• Consuming approximately 2-2.5 liters of water per day is recommended for blood circulation and overall recovery.
• Alcohol and smoking use can negatively affect the recovery process, so it is recommended to avoid them in the period before and after surgery.

General Recommendations for Patients With Knee Replacement

• Doctor and physiotherapist recommendations should be regularly followed.
• Exercises should be continued without interruption.
• Sudden movements that strain the knee and excessive weight lifting should be avoided.
• Knee movements should be slow and controlled.
• A doctor should be consulted if there is any pain, swelling, or abnormal sounds.
• Warming the knee before exercise and applying cold afterward may be beneficial.
• Appropriate and supportive shoes should be preferred.

After surgery, some patients may experience sounds coming from the knee; this condition is usually related to the settlement process of the prosthesis and is generally harmless. However, if it is accompanied by severe pain, it is important to consult a doctor.

Can Patients With Knee Replacement Run?

The transition to higher-intensity activities such as running after knee replacement depends on many factors: the condition of the operated knee, the patient's general health status, age, and weight are among these factors. Doctor approval should be obtained before beginning to run, appropriate supportive shoes should be preferred, progression to speed and distance should be gradual, and activity should be paused if any pain is felt in the knee. Regular and controlled physical activity can help support muscle strength and the knee's range of motion; however, since suitability varies for each patient, individual evaluation is important.

Knee Replacement Surgery Prices 2026 (Robotic)

Knee replacement surgery prices vary according to many variables: the hospital where the surgery is performed, the surgeon's experience, the type and brand of prosthesis used, whether the applied method is conventional or robotic surgery, the patient's age, general health status, and the extent of the surgery. For this reason, it would not be appropriate to provide a fixed price; the table below is prepared solely to provide a general comparison:

In robotic knee replacement surgeries, prices may be somewhat higher compared to the conventional method due to advanced technology equipment and planning systems used. However, Turkey is among the preferred countries in medical tourism due to its advanced hospital infrastructure, experienced surgical staff, and more affordable treatment costs compared to many other countries.

The reasons why Turkey is preferred in this field include:

• Modern, spacious hospitals with technological equipment
• Experienced and specialist surgical teams in the field
• High quality of patient care
• Ease of transportation and variety of accommodation options
• The ability to meet treatment, accommodation, and other needs at more affordable prices compared to many countries

To obtain precise and personalized information about the price of knee replacement surgery, the extent of damage in the patient's knee, the prosthesis treatment to be applied, and the details of the method to be preferred must be evaluated following doctor examination. Patients who wish to obtain more detailed information on this subject can contact relevant health facilities directly to be informed about current pricing information and the treatment process.

You can access detailed information about official clinical quality standards regarding knee and hip replacement applications from the quality guide published by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey.