For many people in the UK, waiting for a knee replacement while pain limits walking and sleep is the hardest part. Some choose to have the operation in Istanbul. This New City Clinic guide explains the cost, the stay and what recovery looks like.
How much does a knee replacement cost in Istanbul?
The estimated package price for a knee replacement at New City Clinic is €7,000–9,000. It covers the operation in a licensed hospital, the hospital stay, hotel and airport transfers; tests, coordination and interpreting are included according to the package. Flights are not included. The final quote follows a free review of your standing X-rays and medical history.
The surgeon and the operation
Knee replacements are planned by orthopaedic surgeon Op. Dr. Gökhan Tolga Akbulut, specialist in orthopaedics and traumatology. Depending on the wear, a total or a partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement is chosen after examination. Physiotherapy starts the day after surgery.
How long to stay
Plan about 12–14 days in Istanbul: three to five nights in hospital, wound checks and the first physiotherapy sessions. Your surgeon clears you to fly and you receive a written exercise programme to continue at home.
Flying home and recovery
On the four-hour flight choose an aisle seat, walk when you can and follow the advice on preventing clots. Many people walk with one crutch or none indoors by weeks four to six; swelling can last several months and the knee keeps improving for up to a year.
A knee replacement in Turkey with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about a knee replacement in Turkey, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
Days 1–5
Walking with a frame or crutches; first bending exercises.
Weeks 4–6
Many walk with one crutch or none indoors.
Months 3–12
Swelling settles and strength keeps improving.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
Is the price per knee?
Yes, the estimate is for one knee; both knees are quoted individually after assessment.
What should I send for a quote?
Recent standing X-rays of the knee, a short medical history and a list of your health conditions.
When can I drive?
Usually after about six to eight weeks, with your surgeon’s approval.
Deciding on a knee replacement in Turkey is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
