–By Dr. Anupam Khandelwal, Joint Replacement Surgeon, Indore
If you’re reading this, chances are either you or someone close to you has been recommended a knee replacement. And the first question that pops up is — “कितना खर्चा आएगा?” (How much will it cost?). Let’s cut through the confusion and talk about Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery in Indore(India), and what factors influence it. After all, healthcare isn’t just about getting better — it’s also about planning smartly.
“As a Joint Replacement Surgeon based in Indore, I’ve seen hundreds of patients (and their families) walk into my clinic, anxious about costs.” – Dr. Anupam Khandelwal.
💰 So, What’s the Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery in Indore(India)?
The cost can vary — anywhere between 1.1 lacs to ₹3.25 lacs per knee, depending on several factors (which we’ll discuss). If you’re looking at Simultaneous bilateral knee replacement (both knees), then the cost may range from ₹1.9 lakh to ₹6.5 lakh.
Now, these are just ballpark figures. Costs can be lower in some government hospitals and higher in top-tier private hospitals with premium facilities. But before you start budgeting, let’s break down what goes into this cost.
🏥 Factors That Affect the Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery
- Surgeon’s Expertise
- A more experienced surgeon may charge a bit more — but remember, you’re paying for skill, safety, and better outcomes.
- Country & City (where surgery is being performed)
- The cost is higher in countries like USA & UK but up to 10 times lesser in India.
- Metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore usually have higher charges compared to cities like Indore, Bhopal, or Jaipur.
- Indore, where I practice, offers affordable yet high-quality options for patients from across India.
- Type of Hospital
- Government hospitals: Significantly cheaper, often subsidized. But may have long waiting times.
- Private hospitals: Faster service, more comfort, but at a premium.
- Room Category & Hospital Stay
- General ward, semi-private, private — each comes with its own pricing.
- Post-op stay is typically 3–5 days.
- Type of Implant
- The implant used is a major cost component.
- Options include:
- Indian-made implants: ₹60,000–₹1,25,000
- Imported implants (e.g., from Zimmer, Johnson & Johnson): ₹80,000–₹1.5 lakh
- High-flex or customized implants may cost more but offer added mobility.
- Coated implants –
- GOLD Knee implant , Black Gold Knee implant cost higher. However life of these coated implants is reported to be more than conventional implants.
- Medicine & Consumables
- Upto 100 different items are used in a Knee Replacement surgery. These include Surgical drapes and towels, antibiotics & medicines , injections , dressing items, disposable surgical gowns etc.
- Type of Surgery
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is the most common.
- Partial Knee / Unicompartmental Replacement (only one compartment of the knee is replaced) also costs usually the same.
- Use of Robot during surgery is a little more precise but comes with higher costs due to high cost of robots and tools used in surgery.
📋 What’s Included in the Package?
Most hospitals offer a package deal which includes:
- Surgeon’s fees
- Operation theatre charges
- Implants
- Hospital stay
- Medications and consumables during hospitalization
- Physiotherapy sessions during stay
⚠️ What’s NOT included?
Pre-operative doctor visit charges, pre-op physiotherapy, investigations , Post-discharge physiotherapy, home care, special braces (if needed), and long-term medications are usually not covered in the surgical package for cash paying patients.
🛡️ Insurance & Knee Replacement – Are You Covered?
Yes, most health insurance policies cover knee replacement surgery — but there are some terms to be aware of:
- Waiting period: Usually 2–4 years from policy start.
- Package limits: Some insurers cap the amount they’ll pay.
- Cashless or reimbursement: Confirm with the hospital if they have a cashless tie-up with your insurer.
Most of insurance companies (NOT ALL) usually cover charges incurred 30 days prior and up to 60 days after the date of surgery. These charges should be related to the surgical procedure initial package.
✅ Pro Tip: Always check the policy fine print. And if you don’t have insurance yet, start now — it could save you lakhs later.
🤔 Is it Worth the Cost?
Absolutely! Let me give you a real-life example.
Mrs. Sharma, a 64-year-old school principal from Ujjain, came to me a few months back. She had been living with severe knee pain for over 7 years. After knee replacement surgery of her both Knees by 3D DARTS Resurfacing technique, not only is she walking pain-free, but she has started morning walks with her neighborhood friends and is even teaching part-time!
👉 Pain-free movement, better sleep, improved mood, and overall quality of life — isn’t that priceless?
🇮🇳 Why Choose India for Knee Replacement Surgery?
India is renowned for its healthcare services in the specialty of Joint Replacement surgeries. It is because of the following factors –
- World-class surgeons
- Modern facilities
- Affordable costs
- Minimal wait times
- International patient care in cities like Indore, Delhi, Chennai, and Hyderabad
In fact, many NRIs and international patients choose India over the US or UK, where the same surgery could cost ₹20–30 lakhs!
📍Knee Replacement in Indore – A Smart Choice
Indore isn’t just about poha-jalebi (although we’re proud of it 😄). We have excellent medical infrastructure, skilled surgeons, and hospitals offering international-standard care at one-third the cost compared to metros. On an average the Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery in Indore(India) is around 1.1 lacs to ₹3.25 lacs per knee.
Knee Replacement Surgery – Cost Comparison Chart (Approximate in INR)
| Location | Approx. Cost (Per Knee) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| United States | ₹20,00,000 – ₹30,00,000 | Among the highest globally |
| United Kingdom | ₹18,00,000 – ₹27,00,000 | Long NHS wait times; private is expensive |
| Australia | ₹15,00,000 – ₹25,00,000 | Public cover limited; private costs high |
| Germany | ₹14,00,000 – ₹22,00,000 | High-quality care with higher cost |
| Singapore | ₹12,00,000 – ₹18,00,000 | Regional medical hub with premium pricing |
| Thailand | ₹6,00,000 – ₹13,00,000 | Popular for medical tourism |
| India (Metro Cities) | ₹2,50,000 – ₹3,50,000 | Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai |
| India (Indore) | ₹1,10,000 – ₹3,25,000 | Affordable with quality care |
📝 Notes:
- These are average figures and can vary depending on implant type, hospital category, and additional services.
- Bilateral knee replacement costs roughly twice the cost of a single knee.
- Costs in Indore can be up to 30%–40% lower than in major metros without compromising on quality.
At Dr. Anupam Khandelwal joint Clinincs(AKJC) & attached Hospitals , we provide:
- Personalized consultation
- Affordable yet advanced implants
- Pre & post-operative physiotherapy guidance
- Complete insurance assistance
📝 Final Thoughts
Knee replacement surgery can truly be life-changing. While the cost is definitely something to plan for, don’t let it stop you from reclaiming your mobility and quality of life.
And remember — cheapest is not always best. Your knees are precious. Trust your treatment to someone experienced, transparent, and empathetic.
If you’re in or around Indore, feel free to drop by for a consultation. Let’s talk knees, costs, and care, all over a cup of chai 😊.
About the Author
Dr. Anupam Khandelwal is a leading Joint Replacement Surgeon based in Indore. He has over a decade of experience in knee and hip replacement surgeries. He is Known for his compassionate approach and excellent surgical outcomes. Dr. Khandelwal believes in empowering patients through education and transparent care.