How Much Does a Torn ACL Surgery Cost? Here’s What You Should Know

Orthopedics27 January, 2025

8 min read

A torn ACL is a painful and common knee injury that can limit your ability to move. Whether you're an athlete looking to get back on track or just trying to regain your mobility, surgery is often the best option.

But how much does ACL surgery cost? Let’s break it down and explore what factors influence the price so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

What is ACL surgery?

Your ACL is a ligament in your knee that connects your thigh bone to your shinbone. It’s super important for keeping your knee stable when you move. A tear can happen during sports like soccer, basketball, or skiing—and it’s no fun. You’ll probably feel pain and swelling, and your knee might even feel like it’s going to give out.

When that happens, ACL surgery is often the recommended treatment. It is a procedure to replace the torn ligament with a graft. This graft can come from another part of your body (like your hamstring) or from a donor.

The goal of the surgery is to repair or reconstruct the ligament to restore knee stability and prevent further injury. After surgery, physical therapy is usually needed to help you regain full movement and strength.

Types of ACL surgery

ACL surgery fixes a torn ligament by using a graft, which is a piece of tissue. Here are the main types:

1. Patellar tendon autograft

The surgeon takes a piece of the patellar tendon (from the front of your knee) along with small bone plugs. It offers strong healing but can cause knee pain afterward.

2. Hamstring tendon autograft

A piece of the hamstring tendon from the back of your thigh is used. It's less invasive and causes less knee pain than the patellar tendon method.

3. Quadriceps tendon autograft

This uses a portion of the quadriceps tendon from the top of your knee. It’s strong and has less risk of donor site pain.

4. Allograft

Tissue is taken from a deceased donor. There’s no pain at the donor site, but there's a small risk of rejection.

Additionally, there are single-bundle and double-bundle techniques. Double-bundle surgery may offer better knee stability and a more natural function.

How much does a torn ACL surgery cost?

The ACL surgery cost can vary a lot depending on where you are, who’s doing the surgery, and other factors. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in different countries.

Average Cost in the United States

The average cost of ACL surgery in the U.S. is around $35,000. This price includes things like the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and the facility where the surgery happens.

ACL surgery cost with Insurance: If you’ve got insurance, you’ll probably pay somewhere between $800 and $3,000 out of pocket. It all depends on your deductible and copay.
ACL surgery cost without Insurance: For those without insurance, costs can be much higher—anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000. This includes the surgery itself, tests before the procedure, and physical therapy afterward.

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United Kingdom

In the UK, the cost of ACL surgery is lower than in the U.S. without insurance. You can expect to pay between £6,000 and £10,000 for private treatment. However, if you’re a resident and eligible for the National Health Service (NHS), you can get surgery for little to no cost, though you might face long waiting times.

Australia

In Australia, ACL surgery costs between AUD 8,000 and AUD 15,000. This is more affordable compared to the U.S., but it still has a hefty price tag. The public health system (Medicare) may cover part of the costs, though again, private care tends to be quicker and more expensive.

Germany

Germany is famous for its high-quality healthcare and top-notch surgeons. ACL surgery here generally costs around €13,000 (about $14,000). The hospitals are state-of-the-art, and you can expect excellent care, but it’s definitely on the more expensive side compared to other countries.

South Korea

South Korea is known for its advanced technology and skilled orthopedic surgeons. ACL surgery typically costs between $5,000 and $10,000. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a mix of quality and affordability, with many people choosing South Korea for medical tourism due to its competitive prices and top-tier medical care.

India

India is one of the most affordable places for ACL surgery, with costs ranging from $3,500 to $4,800. Despite the lower price, the healthcare facilities are modern, and the doctors are well-trained. Many people from around the world travel to India for medical treatment because of the cost savings without sacrificing quality.

Thailand

In Thailand, ACL surgery usually costs between $4,500 and $7,000. The country is well-known for its affordable healthcare and great hospitals. It’s a popular choice for medical tourism, as many people find they get excellent care at a low price.

Brazil

In Brazil, you can expect to pay around $6,000 to $10,000 for ACL surgery. Brazil offers competitive pricing and skilled surgeons, with many modern hospitals in major cities. It’s a solid option for those looking for quality care at a more affordable price.

Spain

Spain offers a great mix of high-quality healthcare and affordable prices. The cost of ACL surgery here ranges from €8,000 to €12,000 (approximately $8,600 to $12,900). While the price can vary by region, Spain provides solid medical care at a much lower cost than many other Western countries.

Singapore

Singapore is one of the leaders in global healthcare, but it’s also one of the priciest options. ACL surgery here typically costs between $15,000 and $25,000. Though it’s on the expensive side, people choose Singapore for its advanced medical technology and highly experienced surgeons.

Turkey

Turkey offers affordable healthcare with a good quality of care. ACL surgery costs around $3,550, making it a budget-friendly choice for medical tourists. Turkey has become increasingly popular for surgeries like ACL reconstruction due to its combination of affordability and high-quality medical services.

Canada

In Canada, the cost of ACL surgery is around $17,000. Canada is known for its excellent healthcare, but wait times for surgeries can be long, especially for non-emergency procedures like ACL reconstruction. If you're willing to wait, the treatment is top-quality, but expect to pay a bit more than in countries like India or Turkey.

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Here’s a quick comparison of ACL surgery costs across different regions:

Country	Cost Range (USD)
United States	$35,000
United Kingdom	£6,000 and £10,000
Germany	$14,000
South Korea	$5,000 - $10,000
India	$3,500 - $4,800
Thailand	$4,500 - $7,000
Brazil	$6,000 - $10,000
Spain	$8,600 - $12,900
Singapore	$15,000 - $25,000
Turkey	$3,550
Canada	$17,000

*Keep in mind that these prices are approximate and can differ depending on the clinic and other factors.

Factors influencing ACL surgery costs

There are several factors that can affect how much you’ll pay for ACL surgery. Here are the main ones:

1. Type of surgical technique

The type of surgery you get plays a big role in the cost. There are a few common ways to perform ACL surgery:

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction: This is the most common type of surgery for a torn ACL. It’s a minimally invasive procedure, meaning the surgeon makes only small cuts and uses a camera to help with the surgery. This method is also usually cheaper than open surgery.
Open ACL reconstruction: This method requires a larger incision to access the knee. It’s less commonly used today.
Robotic-assisted ACL surgery: This is a newer technique where robots help the surgeon with precision. It’s more expensive than the other two options.

2. Type of procedure

The choice between autograft (using the patient's tissue) and allograft (donor tissue) can influence costs. Research indicates that autograft procedures typically range from $4,072 to $5,694 in the U.S.

3. Location

The country you’re in will play a big role in the cost. For example, surgery in the U.S. tends to be much more expensive than in countries like India or Mexico.

4. Surgeon’s experience and reputation

Highly skilled surgeons may charge more, but you’re paying for their expertise. If you go to a renowned hospital or surgeon, expect to pay more for the surgery.

5. Hospital fees

The quality of the hospital or clinic where the surgery takes place can also affect the cost. Top-tier hospitals in big cities often charge higher fees, but they may offer better technology and more experienced staff.

6. Insurance

Having health insurance can help lower the cost of your ACL surgery, but it depends on your specific plan. Some insurance plans may cover most of the surgery and rehab costs, while others might only cover part of it. It's important to check with your insurance provider to see exactly what's covered under your plan.

7. Rehabilitation and physical therapy

Rehabilitation is an important part of recovering from ACL surgery. After the surgery, you'll likely need physical therapy for several months, which can add up to a significant cost, depending on how many sessions you require.

Finding affordable ACL surgery options

Surgery doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some ways to make it more affordable:

1. Explore insurance options: Check with your insurance company to understand what’s covered. Ask about things like copays, deductibles, and if the surgeon is in-network.

2. Negotiate costs: Hospitals often offer discounts if you’re paying cash. Don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price.

3. Compare providers: Shop around! Prices can vary a lot between hospitals and outpatient centers.

4. Consider medical tourism: Some people travel to other countries, like Mexico or India, for surgery. In these places, the cost can be as low as $3,000 to $7,000. Just make sure to research the facility and the surgeon.

5. Community clinics and teaching hospitals: These facilities often have lower-cost options. Surgeries are typically done by supervised medical residents or trainees.

6. Financial assistance programs: Look into programs from charities or government organizations that might help cover your costs.

Is ACL surgery 100% successful?

ACL surgery works well for most people, but it’s not perfect. According to a study, about 75% to 90% of patients recover fully. The success rate depends on factors like:

The surgeon’s skill.
How well you stick to your rehab plan.
Your overall health.

However, like any surgery, ACL reconstruction has some risks, such as infection or blood clots. But these are rare, happening in less than 2% of cases.

Recovery time after ACL surgery

After ACL surgery, the recovery process usually takes about 6 to 12 months. Most people can walk without crutches within a few weeks and resume low-impact activities like biking or swimming after 3 months. However, it may take up to a year for you to fully recover and be able to get back to high-impact activities like running or playing sports.

Physical therapy is a big part of recovery and helps rebuild strength and flexibility in the knee. The more committed you are to your rehab, the quicker you will recover.

Is medical tourism a good option for ACL surgery?

Medical tourism, or traveling abroad for surgery, is becoming more popular for people looking to save money without compromising on quality. Countries like India, Mexico, Thailand, and Turkey offer high-quality ACL surgery at a fraction of the cost you would pay in the U.S. or Europe.

Many hospitals in these countries are accredited by international health organizations, meaning they meet high standards of care. Plus, some of the best surgeons in the world practice in these countries, so you’re not sacrificing quality for cost.

However, medical tourism isn’t for everyone. It’s important to consider travel costs, potential language barriers, and the time needed for recovery when traveling abroad for surgery.

Thinking of getting ACL surgery abroad? Reach out to QCG today to explore affordable and top-quality medical options worldwide.