A meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries. Not every tear needs an operation, and when surgery is needed, the aim today is to keep as much of the meniscus as possible. This guide explains how the decision is made.
Two kinds of tear
Traumatic tears usually happen in younger people during a twisting movement in sport. Degenerative tears develop slowly with age and are often found on MRI in knees that also show early wear. The type of tear strongly influences the treatment.
When physiotherapy is enough
Many degenerative tears improve with physiotherapy, activity changes and time. If the main problem is osteoarthritis, removing part of the meniscus does not usually help and is not recommended.
When arthroscopy is recommended
Surgery is considered when the knee locks or catches, when a traumatic tear is suitable for repair, or when pain persists despite good physiotherapy. Arthroscopy is keyhole surgery through small incisions, usually as a day case or with one night in hospital.
Repair or trimming?
The meniscus protects the cartilage, so suitable tears, especially in younger patients, are repaired with stitches. Recovery after a repair is slower because the stitches need protecting, but the knee keeps its cushion. A tear that cannot heal is carefully trimmed.
Meniscus surgery: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
Meniscus surgery 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 meniscus surgery, 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
After trimming
Walking with crutches for a few days, desk work after about a week, sport gradually over six to eight weeks.
After repair
Limited weight-bearing and bending for several weeks; return to sport usually after three to four months or later.
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
Can a meniscus tear heal on its own?
Small tears in the outer part with good blood supply can heal; many others settle in symptoms even if the tear remains.
How many days do I need in Istanbul?
Usually about 4 to 6 days.
What should I send for a quote?
Your knee MRI images and report and a short description of your symptoms.
Deciding on meniscus surgery 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.
