Knee Replacement in Vietnam: Cost & What to Expect

Knee pain can be debilitating, affecting your mobility, independence, and quality of life. For patients with chronic knee conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injury, knee replacement surgery can offer a long-term solution. However, the high costs of surgery in Western countries often push patients to seek alternatives abroad.

That’s where Vietnam comes in. With a rapidly developing healthcare system, highly skilled orthopedic surgeons, and significantly lower treatment costs, knee replacement in Vietnam is an increasingly popular choice among international patients.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from cost and quality of care to the best hospitals, recovery options, and travel tips for your knee replacement journey in Vietnam.

Why Choose Vietnam for Knee Replacement Surgery?

1. Affordable Pricing Without Compromising Quality

One of the main reasons medical tourists choose Vietnam is the cost. A total knee replacement that may cost $30,000–$50,000 in the U.S. is available in Vietnam for $7,000–$12,000, often including hospital stay, surgeon fees, and rehabilitation services.

2. Experienced Orthopedic Surgeons

Vietnam’s top hospitals have board-certified orthopedic surgeons, many of whom trained in Europe, Japan, South Korea, or Australia. They perform hundreds of joint replacements each year with high success rates.

3. Modern Hospitals with International Standards

Vietnam is home to JCI-accredited and international-standard private hospitals such as:

• Vinmec International Hospital

• Tam Anh General Hospital

• FV Hospital

• City International Hospital
  These hospitals offer clean, modern facilities, advanced equipment, infection control, and multilingual staff.

4. Full Travel Support and Concierge Services

Most hospitals have International Patient Departments that assist with:

• Pre-surgery consultations

• Visa letters

• Hotel and travel arrangements

• Translation services

• Recovery planning

Types of Knee Replacement Procedures in Vietnam

Depending on your diagnosis and condition, the following procedures may be offered:

🔹 Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Most common. Replaces the entire knee joint with a prosthetic implant made of metal and plastic.

🔹 Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)

For patients with damage limited to one part of the knee (usually medial). Minimally invasive with faster recovery.

🔹 Revision Knee Replacement

Used if a previous implant fails due to wear, infection, or instability. Technically complex but available at top centers.

🔹 Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery

Available in some hospitals for partial replacements or early intervention. Smaller incisions, less pain, quicker healing.

Cost of Knee Replacement in Vietnam

While prices can vary based on hospital and implant brand, here’s an estimated range:

Inclusions:

• Pre-op consultation and tests

• Surgeon and anesthesiologist fees

• Operation theater charges

• Prosthetic implant

• 3–7 days hospital stay

• Post-operative care

Not typically included:

• Flights

• Additional hotel stays

• Physiotherapy beyond discharge

Best Hospitals in Vietnam for Knee Replacement

🏥 Vinmec International Hospital (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang)

• JCI-accredited

• Orthopedic surgeons trained in France, Japan, and Australia

• Robotic-assisted surgery available in Hanoi

• Multilingual international patient center

🏥 Tam Anh General Hospital (HCMC, Hanoi)

• Specialized orthopedic and spine center

• Offers 3D imaging and minimally invasive techniques

• International insurance partnerships

🏥 FV Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City)

• French-run hospital with modern surgical infrastructure

• Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery Department offers both primary and revision procedures

• Rehabilitation center on-site

🏥 City International Hospital (CIH)

• Affordable yet modern facilities

• Located in Binh Tan District, HCMC

• Known for personalized orthopedic care

🏥 Hoan My Medical Corporation (Nationwide)

• Vietnam’s largest private hospital network

• Budget-friendly packages with good clinical standards

• Orthopedic departments in Da Nang, HCMC, and Can Tho

Step-by-Step Process for Getting Knee Replacement in Vietnam

✅ 1. Send Medical Records

Send your X-rays, MRI, medical history, and reports for initial evaluation.

✅ 2. Get a Treatment Plan

Hospital sends a proposed plan with procedure type, costs, implant info, and estimated duration.

✅ 3. Confirm and Prepare for Travel

Book your flight and apply for visa (tourist or treatment visa). International patient services can help with this.

✅ 4. Arrival and Pre-op Consultation

You’ll meet your surgeon in person for examination and undergo pre-operative tests (blood, ECG, etc.).

✅ 5. Surgery Day

Most surgeries last 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Patients receive spinal or general anesthesia.

✅ 6. Hospital Stay (3–7 days)

Post-surgery pain is controlled with medication. You’ll start gentle physiotherapy within 24–48 hours.

✅ 7. Discharge and Recovery

Patients are usually discharged with instructions for continued physiotherapy and wound care.

✅ 8. Follow-up Care

Some hospitals offer telehealth check-ins after you return home.

Post-Surgery Recovery in Vietnam

Many patients choose to extend their stay in Vietnam for rehabilitation. Benefits include:

• Affordable physiotherapy and hydrotherapy

• Wellness resorts for recovery (e.g., in Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Da Lat)

• Warm weather, which can be beneficial for joint healing

Recommended recovery duration:
Minimum 2–3 weeks in Vietnam post-surgery for optimal monitoring and initial rehab.

Vietnam offers advanced knee replacement surgery using modern implants — expert care, affordable pricing, and rapid recovery support.

Travel Tips for Medical Tourists

• Best Time to Visit: November to April for cooler, dry weather

• Visa: Many nationalities can enter visa-free or apply for a 30-day e-visa

• Language: English widely spoken at major hospitals

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND), though USD is accepted at some hospitals

• Support: MedtourVietnam and partner hospitals provide airport pickup and translation

Testimonials

Maria T. (New Zealand):
“I had a total knee replacement at FV Hospital in HCMC. The care was outstanding, and the cost was less than one-third of what I was quoted back home. I recovered at a resort in Nha Trang with ocean therapy and daily physio. Highly recommend!”

Michael S. (UK):
“Vinmec in Hanoi was professional from the first online consultation to my surgery and discharge. I stayed 2 extra weeks for rehab. Vietnam was the best decision I’ve made.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Is knee replacement surgery in Vietnam safe?

Yes. Leading hospitals follow international protocols, use FDA-approved implants, and have infection control standards similar to the U.S.

❓ How long do knee implants last?

Typically 15–20 years depending on activity level and implant type.

❓ Can I travel alone?

Yes, but it’s recommended to bring a caregiver or request in-hospital assistance during recovery.

❓ Can I use my insurance?

Some hospitals accept international insurance or provide documents for post-treatment reimbursement. Check with your insurer first.

Conclusion

Knee replacement in Vietnam offers a winning combination of top-tier surgical expertise, modern facilities, and affordable costs. For patients struggling with knee pain who want a new lease on life without breaking the bank, Vietnam is an excellent destination.

From world-class hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang to peaceful recovery spots by the sea or in the mountains, Vietnam provides a full-circle solution—from consultation to healing.