In this article, you’ll find:
Public waitlists for joint replacements, gynecologic procedures, and urologic surgeries can stretch into months or years. These delays are prompting more Canadians to look at:
Understanding all three can help patients make informed, cost-effective decisions. Read more about your options in our complete guide to getting surgery faster in Canada.
The following chart outlines estimated costs for common procedures performed in private Canadian surgical centres.
Note: Prices vary by province, clinic, and surgical approach.
Many patients consider medical tourism to access more timely surgical care. Here’s how average prices compare for major procedures:
Note: Costs sourced from major international health travel networks and medical tourism facilitators.⁶
Delaying necessary surgery in Canada’s public system isn’t just inconvenient—it can be financially and physically damaging.
Example: A self-employed mechanic waiting 14 months for knee replacement could lose over $60,000 in income—double the cost of private surgery.
Learn more about the potential harms and hidden costs of waiting for surgery.
This comparison summarizes the financial and logistical trade-offs between Canadian private care, U.S. and Mexican options, and public system delays.
Final Thoughts: Is Private Surgery in Canada Worth It?
Private surgery may seem like a luxury, but when weighed against lost wages, healthcare delays and declining quality of life, it often makes practical and financial sense.
Unlike out-of-country options, private care in Canada:
Interest in paying privately for surgery, but want to know more about how to pay for it? Explore our guide on how Canadians can finance out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Surgency helps Canadians navigate private surgery with transparency and ease.