Private Knee Replacement Surgery Canada | Find Accredited Surgeons

What is knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement (arthroplasty) surgery swaps out the damaged parts of your knee for smooth artificial pieces so it bends and moves without pain.

Think of your knee like a rusty hinge. The smooth cartilage is worn down (arthritis), so it grinds and hurts. Surgery replaces:

The worn thighbone surface
The worn shinbone surface
Sometimes the back of the kneecap

This creates a smooth new hinge, aiming to relieve pain and restore your ability to walk and move freely.

Total Knee Replacement

‍The most common procedure. It replaces the entire joint surface—the bottom of the thigh bone (femur) and the top of the shin bone (tibia). It often also involves resurfacing the back of the kneecap (patella).

Partial Knee Replacement (Unicompartmental)

‍Replaces only the specific damaged compartment of the knee (usually the inside, or medial, part), leaving the healthy bone and ligaments (like the ACL) intact. This often allows for a quicker recovery and a more "natural" feeling knee.

Unilateral Knee Replacement

‍Surgery performed on one knee only during your hospital stay.

Bilateral Knee Replacement

‍Surgery performed on both knees. This can be simultaneous (both knees fixed during the same operation under one anesthesia) or staged (two separate surgeries scheduled days, weeks, or months apart).

Revision Knee Replacement

‍A surgery to repair or exchange an existing knee replacement that has failed due to loosening, wear, infection, or instability. It is more complex than a first-time (primary) replacement and often requires specialized components.

Robotic-assisted knee replacement

Robotic-assisted knee replacement uses a computer-guided system (and, in some centres, a robotic arm) to help the surgeon plan and perform bone cuts more precisely. The surgeon is still in full control—“robotic” does not mean the robot operates on its own.

Why it’s used

Helps with alignment and implant positioning
Can allow more personalized planning based on your anatomy
May improve the balance of the knee during movement

Is robotic knee replacement better?

Robotic assistance can help the surgeon execute a detailed plan and assess alignment or balance. Evidence does not support promising a superior result for every patient. Ask what benefit the surgeon expects in your specific knee and how experienced the team is with the system.

Robotic assistance is a tool, not a guarantee. Outcomes still depend on the surgeon’s skill, your diagnosis, implant choice, and rehabilitation plan.

Cemented and cementless fixation

Cemented fixation: Bone cement secures the components immediately.
Cementless fixation: A porous surface is designed for bone to grow into it over time.
Hybrid fixation: Cement is used for one component but not another.

The surgeon considers age, bone quality, anatomy, implant system and experience. No single method is best for every patient.

Why do people choose to have knee replacement surgery done privately?

If knee pain is keeping you from work, sleep, or simple daily movement, time matters. Exploring a private pathway gives you more choice, control, and flexibility while staying within Canadian regulations.

More predictable access

Public access to orthopedic consultation and operating-room time varies by province and region, sometimes extending beyond 1-2 years. A private pathway offers an earlier assessment or more predictable surgical date, depending on the clinic, province, medical needs and complexity of the case. It does not guarantee that surgery is appropriate or immediately available.

Clearer planning

A confirmed surgeon, facility and expected timeline can help you arrange time away from work, transportation, a support person, home equipment and physiotherapy.

Choice and control

Going private generally gives you a sense of control, which can be reassuring during a difficult time. When you choose a private knee replacement, you can:

Select a certified orthopaedic surgeon and an accredited clinic that fits your needs.
Select the clinic location (often out-of-province).
Plan surgery around your own schedule.

Clarity upfront

Private pathways typically provide a clear quote and date, so you can arrange time off, caregiver help, and rehab. This certainty can ease anxiety and help families plan for recovery.

Preventing further decline

For some, waiting too long can mean more than just discomfort. Knee deterioration may worsen over time, making recovery harder. Timely surgery can reduce the risk of further mobility loss.

Browse private surgeons offering knee replacement surgery

Click here to browse private surgical providers

Knee Replacement Surgery Steps: What to Expect

A primary knee replacement often takes about one to two hours, although complex anatomy, bilateral surgery or additional procedures can take longer. Time at the centre also includes check-in, anaesthesia, recovery and discharge preparation.

1. Check-in and confirmation

You meet the surgical team, confirm the knee and procedure, review allergies and medicines, and complete safety checks. The surgeon marks the operative side.

2. Anaesthesia and pain control

Knee replacement may be performed under spinal anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. A nerve block, local infiltration and several types of pain medication may be used together. Ask how the plan affects early movement, nausea and fall precautions.

3. Positioning and sterile preparation

You lie on your back. The knee and leg are cleaned and draped. Antibiotics are usually given before the incision.

4. Removing damaged surfaces

The surgeon makes an incision at the front of the knee, moves the kneecap as needed and removes damaged cartilage and small amounts of bone using guides, navigation or robotic assistance.

5. Balancing and trial components

Trial components help the surgeon assess alignment, ligament balance, stability and movement. The surgeon checks the knee while straight and bent.

6. Implant placement

The final femoral and tibial components are secured with cement, bone ingrowth or a combination. A plastic spacer is inserted. The patella may be resurfaced based on the surgeon’s findings and approach.

7. Final checks and closure

The surgeon confirms stability, movement, alignment and bleeding control. The incision is closed in layers and covered with a dressing.

8. Recovery and early movement

The team monitors pain, nausea, circulation and breathing. Most programs encourage standing and walking with assistance on the day of surgery or the next morning.

9. Discharge planning

Before leaving, you should receive instructions for pain control, blood-clot prevention, incision care, exercises, walking aids, physiotherapy, follow-up and red flags. You will need transportation and, for many people, help at home.

Dr. Joe Costa, ACL reconstruction surgeon

Expert Surgeon Insight

Mina Morcos MD, MSc, FRCSC: what to expect during your consultation

During your consultation with an orthopedic surgeon, you can expect to have an in-depth discussion about:

Review of your knee pain, stiffness, and daily activity limitations
Discussion of past treatments (medications, injections, physiotherapy)
Past medical & surgical history, medications and allergies
Your goals and expectations from treatment or surgery
Detailed physical examination (movement, strength, stability, alignment)
Review of X-rays or MRI of your knee (or ordering new ones if needed)
Discussion of both non-operative and operative treatment options including knee replacement surgery
If knee replacement is chosen you will have further discussions about technical aspects
of the procedure, risks and benefits, recovery timelines, etc
Time to ask questions and discuss concerns
Planning next steps if surgery is chosen

At Westmount Square Surgical Centre, we book initial consultations for an hour to ensure there is enough time to fully understand your function, ideas, feelings, and expectations, as well as to answer the many questions you are likely to have! Consultation is booked within 24-48 hours from receiving your request and surgery is booked within 2-4 weeks.

Dr. Morcos sees patients at Westmount Square Surgical Centre in Montréal, QC. Visit his profile.

BROWSE SURGEONS

What can I expect from the knee replacement surgery recovery process?

The clinic will provide you with an extensive knee replacement surgery recovery plan that includes physiotherapy, pain management, and further monitoring. The recovery process varies from patient to patient. Your knee replacement outcomes might look quite different, so please seek further guidance from your surgeon.

Please take post-operative care seriously. The more diligently this process is followed, the better the outcome tends to be.

Some private clinics offer virtual follow-up appointments, while others coordinate with local providers in your home province.

Here’s a general guide to knee surgery recovery time—for an in-depth look, read our Recovery Guide.

Week 1:

There's no sugar coating it, the first week is painful and cumbersome.
Goals: Pain control, swelling reduction, initial basic movement.
Activities:
- Clinic recovery for 1-3 days.
- Preliminary physiotherapy to prevent stiffness and encourage circulation.
- Adaptive living. Using a walker, transitioning in and out of things slowly (i.e. bed, restroom, car).
- Pain medication management and wound care (it will be advantageous to have a friend, family member, or caretaker support you for both in the first few days).

Weeks 2-4:

The next 3 weeks are still characterized by significant discomfort, swelling, frustration, and emotional highs and lows.
Goals: Settling into your new routines, applying yourself to daily pre-exercises, and slowly increasing activity.
Activities:
- Daily exercises
- Physiotherapy
- Walking. Slowly increasing distance with the use of a walking aids.

Weeks 5-12:

These weeks are challenging, but rewarding. Focus and diligence on exercises will likely pay off, and you'll likely be able to walk again unassisted and be able to drive.
Goals: Increasing physical therapy, restoring range of motion, regaining strength, transitioning off of walking aids.
Activities:
- More challenging physical therapy in order to improve range of motion and build strength, potentially able to lift things over 10-15 pounds.
- Daily exercises. Possibly low impact activities like swimming (only if cleared by healthcare team).
- Walking longer distances—transitioning from the use of walking aids around week 6-8.

Weeks 13-52:

The worst of the pain and swelling usually subsides after 12 weeks, but you'll need to stay on top of physical therapy and listen carefully to your body in the year post operation.
Goals: Regain full functionality of the knee joint, recover your lost strength, and slowly return to normal activity levels.
Activities:
- Physical therapy may continue the entire first year post operation, gradually bringing you back to your activity levels pre-surgery.
- Daily exercises are no longer essential once you achieve normal range of motion and strength, but routine exercise is encouraged to keep muscles strong to protect the artificial joint.
- You will be able to return to low impact sports like golf, tennis, swimming, or cycling. For anything high impact, please consult your surgeon and physio.

Helpful recovery tips

Treat rehabilitation as part of the operation: Consistent exercises matter, but forcing the knee aggressively can increase pain and swelling.
Manage swelling early: Short activity periods, elevation and approved cold therapy can help.
Stay ahead of constipation: Pain medicine, reduced activity and dehydration can slow the bowel.
Plan for sleep disruption: Use the pain and positioning plan rather than adding unapproved sleep medicines.
Use walking aids without embarrassment: Safe gait is more important than stopping the walker or cane quickly.
Keep records when travelling: Carry the operative note, implant details, medication list and follow-up instructions.

Red flags—contact your care team

Fever, spreading redness, foul drainage or an opening incision.
Pain or swelling that is severe, rapidly increasing or not responding to the plan.
New calf pain or swelling.
New chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting or coughing blood.
A cold, pale or discoloured foot; new major numbness or weakness.
Inability to bear weight after a fall, a new deformity or a sudden loss of function.
Persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down or medication reaction.

Costs of private knee replacement

Private knee replacement surgery in Canada generally ranges from $21,000 to $38,000.

See our knee replacement Canada cost guide for an in-depth breakdown.

Costs also vary by province: Alberta, Quebec.

Comparatively, in the United States, you can expect to pay US$35,000 to $60,000.

This estimate includes the core medical expenses: surgeon and anaesthesiologist fees, hospital or surgical facility charges, the knee implant itself, and immediate post-operative care.

Costs may be higher if a patient requires specialized implants or an extended hospital stay.

What’s included

Most quotes for private knee replacement surgery cover:

Surgeon and anesthesiologist fees.
Hospital or clinic facility fees.
Implant (prosthetic knee joint).
Nursing and immediate post-operative care.
Initial rehabilitation or physiotherapy planning (varies by clinic).

What’s usually not included:

Travel and accommodation if surgery is out-of-province.
Long-term physiotherapy after discharge.
Medications, once you return home.

Insurance and financing options

Private health insurance: Some plans may cover part of the costs, such as hospital fees or implants. It’s important to check your policy directly.
Financing plans: Many clinics offer monthly payment options to help spread out the cost. Learn more about your financing options here.‍
Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC): This is a non-refundable credit that reduces your taxes when you pay out-of-pocket for eligible medical expenses. Learn more about how to claim METC for private surgeries.

Choosing a surgeon or clinic

Choosing your surgeon is one of the benefits of going the private route. Here’s what to consider and the key questions to bring to your knee replacement consultation.

What to look for

Experience and volume
- Ask how many total knee replacements (TKR) they perform each year, primary vs revision, and their use of technologies (patient-specific guides, navigation, robotics). Higher volume often correlates with smoother care and outcomes.
Credentials and training
- Confirm licensure with the provincial college (e.g., CPSO in Ontario, CPSBC in BC, CPSA in Alberta).
- Look for FRCSC-certified orthopaedic surgeons with adult reconstruction (hip/knee arthroplasty) fellowship training.
Outcomes and safety
- Request 12–24 month data: infection rates, blood clot (DVT/PE) rates, stiffness/manipulation-under-anesthesia rates, readmissions, and revision rates.
Implant strategy and alignment philosophy
- Discuss implant brand and design, fixation (cemented vs cementless), polyethylene type, and alignment method (mechanical vs kinematic) and why it fits you.
- Ask about patella resurfacing policy and how they manage flexion instability.
Imaging and planning
- Pre-op templating, assessment of deformity/ligaments, leg length/offset, and use of navigation/robotics or patient-specific instruments when indicated.‍
Facility accreditation‍
- Make sure the clinic is accredited by national bodies such as Accreditation Canada or the Canadian Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (CAAASF).‍
Rehab integration‍
- Access to knee‑savvy physiotherapy, clear phased protocol, and communication with your local therapist if you’re traveling.

Questions to ask during your knee replacement consultation

Surgeon and surgery plan

How many primary TKRs do you perform yearly? What are your infection, DVT/PE, stiffness (MUA), and revision rates?
Which implant and fixation do you recommend for me (cemented vs cementless; posterior-stabilized vs cruciate-retaining)? Why?
Do you resurface the kneecap routinely? What factors guide that decision?
What alignment method do you use (mechanical vs kinematic) and how do you personalize it?
Do you use navigation/robotics or patient-specific guides in my case? Proven benefits for me?
Anesthesia and pain plan: spinal vs general, nerve blocks, multimodal medications.
Setting and stay: ambulatory center vs hospital; same-day vs overnight.

Recovery and aftercare

Timelines: When can I walk without aids, drive, return to desk work vs manual work, and resume low-impact sports?
Physio plan: Frequency and duration; do you provide a written protocol and coordinate with my local therapist?
DVT prevention: What blood thinner and for how long?
Wound care and activity precautions: Stairs, kneeling, range-of-motion targets by week.
Red flags: What should prompt me to call or go to the ER?
Communication: Who is my post-op contact (direct line/email) and typical response time? How many follow-ups are included and when?

Costs and logistics

What exactly is included in my quote (surgeon, anesthesiologist, facility fees, implant, imaging, walker/canes, on‑site meds, scheduled follow‑ups)?
What could add cost (extra nights, custom or constrained implants, unexpected imaging, blood transfusion, complications/re-operations)?
How are complications handled and billed? Do you have a revision/transfer policy with a partner hospital?
If I’m traveling from another province, which follow-ups can be virtual? Will I receive the operative note, implant stickers, and rehab plan for my local team/insurer?

‍

If you're currently interested in private surgical pathways within Canada, you can click here for a list of providers.

BROWSE SURGEONS

Knee replacement frequently asked questions

How do I know if a knee replacement is right for me?

Knee replacement may be worth discussing when the expected improvement in pain and function outweighs the risks, recovery burden and limitations of an artificial joint. The decision should be based on symptoms, examination, standing X-rays, goals and health—not an imaging report alone.

Signs surgery may be appropriate

Knee pain occurs most days or at night.
Pain, stiffness or deformity limits walking, stairs, work, sleep, caregiving or exercise.
Standing X-rays show advanced arthritis that matches the symptoms.
Appropriate non-surgical care no longer provides acceptable relief.
The knee is becoming bowed, knock-kneed, unstable or difficult to straighten.
You understand the rehabilitation commitment and realistic outcomes.
Your health can be optimized enough for surgery.

When non-surgical care may still be reasonable

Symptoms are mild or manageable.
Function and sleep remain acceptable.
Physiotherapy, activity modification, weight management, medication or an injection still helps.
Pain comes mainly from another source, such as the hip, back or nerves.
Medical risks currently outweigh expected benefit.
You prefer to continue non-surgical care after discussing trade-offs.

Factors that affect the result

Preoperative strength, movement and walking ability.
Severity and location of arthritis.
Deformity and ligament stability.
Diabetes, circulation, heart or lung disease and other health conditions.
Nicotine use and body weight.
Mental health, sleep and pain coping.
Previous knee operations.
Ability to participate in rehabilitation and arrange support.

When to seek assessment sooner

Seek timely medical assessment for rapidly worsening deformity, repeated falls, inability to bear weight, a hot swollen joint, fever, major loss of movement or new neurologic or circulation changes. Sudden severe pain after an injury requires assessment for fracture or another urgent problem.

Do I need a referral?

Yes and no—you can reach out to any of the private surgeons listed on Surgency without a referral. Their intake teams are happy to answer questions, explain what they treat, share pricing ranges, and walk you through next steps.

However, to book a formal consultation with the surgeon, you'll typically need a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Don't have one? Many of the clinics can help coordinate a virtual GP appointment to get the referral paperwork sorted. All surgeons listed on Surgency offer virtual initial consultations, so you don't need to travel until you and the surgeon have agreed on a plan.

Before your consultation, expect the clinic to request relevant medical records and recent diagnostic imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT, ultrasound, lab work, etc.). Having these ready speeds up the process and lets the surgeon give you specific guidance on your very first call.

Click here for a list of surgical providers

How do I prepare for knee replacement surgery?

Your surgeon’s instructions come first. Preparation should reduce complications, improve strength and make early recovery safer.

Health optimization

Stop nicotine

Nicotine can increase infection, wound and bone-healing risks. Ask how long you should be nicotine-free before and after surgery and what support is available.

Manage medical conditions

Work with your care team to optimize diabetes, blood pressure, anaemia, sleep apnea, heart or lung disease, nutrition and other conditions. Bring a CPAP machine if instructed.

Review medicines and supplements

Provide a complete list of prescriptions, non-prescription medication, cannabis products and supplements. Follow specific instructions for blood thinners, diabetes medicine, anti-inflammatory medication and herbal products. Do not stop prescribed medicine without guidance.

Address infection risks

Report skin wounds, urinary symptoms, dental infection, fever or another infection. Surgery may need to be delayed until infection has been treated.

Prehabilitation

If approved, practise:

Quadriceps, hip and core strengthening.
Knee straightening and comfortable bending.
Safe walking with a walker or crutches.
Sit-to-stand and stair techniques.
Regular low-impact cardiovascular activity.

Prehabilitation cannot reverse advanced arthritis, but better strength and familiarity with exercises may make early recovery easier.

Prepare your home

Remove loose rugs, cords and clutter.
Install or borrow a shower chair and safety equipment if recommended.
Place frequently used items between waist and shoulder height.
Arrange a firm chair with arms and a suitable sleeping area.
Prepare easy meals, cold therapy supplies and prescribed equipment.
Make a plan for pets, laundry, shopping and stairs.

Practise daily tasks

Practise getting in and out of bed, a chair and a vehicle using the recommended technique. Learn how to dress, shower and use the toilet safely with limited mobility.

Plan support, travel and work

Arrange an adult escort after surgery.
Ask whether someone should stay with you during the first days.
Discuss realistic time away from desk work and physical work.
Confirm where physiotherapy will occur.
If travelling, ask how long to remain near the centre and when flying is safe.
Identify who will manage prescriptions, dressings and urgent concerns at home.

Surgery-day preparation

Follow fasting and medication instructions exactly.
Shower with an antiseptic wash if instructed.
Do not shave the knee unless told to do so.
Bring photo identification, medication list, walking aid and requested records.
Wear loose clothing and leave valuables at home.

How much does Surgency cost?

Surgency is free for patients, funded for by surgeons.

Surgeons—who meet our listing criteria—pay a flat fee to list on the Surgency platform. To maintain objectivity, there are no commissions, referral fees, nor any ranking or recommending one surgeon over another.

Surgency is patient-first. Our goal is to make the process of finding a private surgeon as simple as possible. You choose who to contact. Learn more in our Advertising Policy.

What are the risks involved with knee replacement surgery?

Your personal risk depends on age, health, anatomy, bone and soft-tissue quality, previous surgery, procedure type and rehabilitation. Ask the surgeon to explain individual risk and alternatives.

Common and usually temporary

Pain, swelling, bruising and warmth.
Stiffness and reduced movement.
Sleep disruption and fatigue.
Nausea, constipation or drowsiness from anaesthesia or medicine.
Numbness beside the incision.
Clicking or awareness of the artificial joint.

Less common

Infection: A superficial wound infection may respond to treatment; a deep infection around the implant can require further surgery and prolonged antibiotics.
Blood clot: Deep vein thrombosis can travel to the lungs as a pulmonary embolism.
Persistent stiffness: Some patients require manipulation under anaesthesia or another procedure.
Wound-healing problem or hematoma: Further treatment may be required.
Instability: The knee may feel unreliable or give way.
Persistent pain: Pain can remain even when components appear well fixed.
Patellar problems: Anterior knee pain, maltracking, fracture or tendon injury can occur.
Nerve injury: Numbness, weakness or foot drop can occur, especially with severe deformity.

Uncommon but important

Blood-vessel injury or major bleeding.
Heart attack, stroke, lung or anaesthetic complication.
Periprosthetic fracture during or after surgery.
Implant loosening, wear or osteolysis over time.
Severe scar formation or arthrofibrosis.
Implant-material sensitivity, although true allergic implant failure is uncommon.
Complex regional pain syndrome.
Need for unplanned admission, repeat surgery or revision replacement.

Implant lifespan and future revision

Many knee replacements function for 15–20 years or longer, but no implant lasts forever. Age, activity, body weight, implant position, infection, fracture and other factors affect longevity. Younger patients have more years in which wear or loosening can occur and may be more likely to need revision later.

How you can lower risk

Stop nicotine for the recommended period.
Optimize diabetes, nutrition and other conditions.
Follow medication, fasting and infection-screening instructions.
Use the blood-clot prevention plan.
Protect the incision and report warning signs promptly.
Use walking aids until gait is safe.
Complete rehabilitation without advancing too quickly.
Reduce fall risk and attend follow-up.

What are the risks of delaying or not pursuing knee replacement surgery?

The effects of waiting depend on symptom severity, deformity, strength, movement, general health and whether non-surgical treatment remains effective. Not every arthritic knee worsens quickly, and replacement is not automatically urgent.

Possible effects of delaying when symptoms are severe

Progressive pain and disability: Walking, stairs, sleep, work and self-care may become harder.
Loss of strength and endurance: Reduced activity can weaken the leg and overall conditioning.
Increasing stiffness: Loss of bending or straightening can make rehabilitation more difficult.
Worsening deformity: Bow-legged or knock-kneed alignment may progress.
Falls: Pain, weakness or instability may increase fall risk.
Effects of inactivity: Weight, cardiovascular health, diabetes, mood and independence may worsen.
Medication harms: Prolonged reliance on anti-inflammatory drugs or opioids carries risk.
More complex later surgery: Severe deformity, bone loss or ligament imbalance can require a more complex plan, although this does not happen to everyone.

When watchful waiting may be reasonable

Symptoms are stable and manageable.
Walking, sleep and daily function remain acceptable.
Non-surgical treatment provides meaningful relief.
There is no major progressive deformity or loss of movement.
Medical risk needs optimization.
You prefer continued non-surgical care after discussing the trade-offs.

When not to delay assessment

Seek a timely orthopaedic opinion for:

Rapid loss of walking ability or independence.
Repeated falls or a knee that repeatedly gives way.
Significant night pain despite appropriate treatment.
Worsening deformity or inability to straighten the knee.
Persistent disabling symptoms despite optimized non-surgical care.

Seek urgent care for a hot swollen knee with fever, inability to bear weight after injury, a cold or pale foot, new major weakness or numbness, chest pain or shortness of breath.

What is the difference between partial and total knee replacement surgery? Which one should I get?

Partial knee replacement only replaces the damaged part of the knee (just one of the medial, lateral, or patellofemoral compartment). It is less invasive and leaves more natural bone, cartilage, and ligaments intact.

Partial replacement is suitable for patients with arthritis or damage confined to just one part of the knee—which applies to a fraction of knee replacement candidates.

Total knee replacement is more common, and involves replacing all three knee compartments. It's a more extensive procedure and removes more bone, cartilage, and ligaments. The recovery process is longer and feels less natural after the surgery.

Your surgeon will advise you which surgery makes sense for you.

Table of Contents