Treatment Options AbroadShoulder replacement is a major orthopedic procedure used to treat severe arthritis, rotator cuff damage, fractures, and chronic shoulder pain that no longer responds to medication or therapy. But for uninsured Americans, Canadians, expats, and retirees, the cost of shoulder replacement surgery in the U.S. can be financially overwhelming. Because of this, many patients are now choosing medical tourism as a safer, more affordable alternative—receiving high-quality shoulder replacement abroad at a fraction of the price.
This guide explains how much shoulder replacement surgery costs without insurance, compares U.S. vs. global prices, and explores the best medical tourism destinations for orthopedic care.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery Cost Without Insurance in the U.S.
Shoulder replacement (also called shoulder arthroplasty) involves replacing damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components. The cost varies based on implant type, hospital fees, surgeon experience, and whether you need a total, partial, or reverse shoulder replacement.
Average U.S. Self-Pay Costs
Shoulder replacement surgery without insurance typically costs $16,500 to $35,500 for outpatient procedures in the U.S. Higher-cost cases or inpatient stays can push total expenses toward $40,000 to $60,000+.
| Procedure Type | U.S. Cost (Without Insurance) |
|---|---|
| Total Shoulder Replacement | $22,000 – $50,000 |
| Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty) | $15,000 – $35,000 |
| Reverse Shoulder Replacement | $28,000 – $60,000 |
Additional costs you may pay separately:
- MRI or CT scans: $500 – $2,500
- Surgeon fees
- Implants (high-cost component)
- Hospital stay (2–3 nights)
- Physical therapy for months after surgery
For uninsured patients, the final bill often ends up between $30,000 and $70,000, depending on complexity.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery Cost Abroad (Affordable Alternatives)
Medical tourism allows patients to save 50–75% while receiving care at modern orthopedic hospitals with experienced joint replacement surgeons.
Average Prices by Country
| Country | Total Shoulder Replacement |
|---|---|
| Mexico | $9,000 – $16,000 |
| Costa Rica | $10,000 – $17,000 |
| Turkey | $10,500 – $18,000 |
| Thailand | $12,000 – $20,000 |
| South Korea | $14,000 – $22,000 |
Most packages include:
- Pre-operative evaluation
- Surgeon + anesthesia fees
- Implant costs
- Hospital stay (all-inclusive)
- Postoperative checkups
- Airport transfers and patient support
For uninsured individuals, the difference is massive: a surgery that costs $45,000+ in the U.S. can be done abroad for around $12,000–$18,000, often with VIP-level hospitality.
Best Countries for Shoulder Replacement Surgery Abroad
🇲🇽 Mexico
Closest and most cost-effective for U.S. patients, offering advanced orthopedic centers with U.S.-trained surgeons.
Why Mexico is a top choice:
- 50–70% savings compared to U.S. prices
- Short travel distance
- Modern hospitals with English-speaking staff
- Excellent outcomes for joint replacement
🇹🇷 Turkey
Turkey is one of the most popular destinations worldwide for joint replacement due to its large orthopedic hospitals and internationally certified surgeons.
Benefits of Turkey:
- High surgical volume (better outcomes)
- Advanced implants and technology
- All-inclusive surgery + rehab packages
- Great for complex shoulder cases
🇨🇷 Costa Rica
Known for quality and safety, Costa Rica offers excellent orthopedic care at affordable prices.
Why choose Costa Rica:
- Accredited private hospitals
- American-trained orthopedic surgeons
- Comfortable, peaceful recovery environment
🇹🇭 Thailand
Thailand offers world-class orthopedic departments with experience in joint reconstruction.
Why Thailand stands out:
- Highly advanced surgical technology
- Strong international patient support
- Premium hospital experience
🇰🇷 South Korea
A global leader in orthopedic and robotic joint surgery.
Why South Korea is preferred:
- Precision surgical techniques
- Excellent outcomes for reverse shoulder replacement
- Strong rehabilitation programs
Benefits of Getting Shoulder Replacement Surgery Abroad
- 50–75% lower cost than U.S. hospitals
- Experienced orthopedic surgeons with global training
- Advanced imaging & implants
- International patient services and English-speaking staff
- Shorter wait times
- Transparent pricing with no hidden bills
- Comfortable recovery and personalized attention
Tips for Planning Your Shoulder Replacement Trip
- Bring your MRI or CT scans
- Verify implant brands used by the hospital
- Ask for a full package breakdown
- Confirm hospital accreditation
- Allow 10–14 days abroad for initial recovery before flying
- Plan for physical therapy back home
FAQs
1. How much is shoulder replacement surgery without insurance?
Shoulder replacement surgery typically costs $22,000–$60,000 in the U.S. without insurance, depending on whether you need total, partial, or reverse replacement.
2. How much does shoulder replacement surgery cost abroad?
Abroad, the same surgery costs $9,000–$20,000, depending on the country and implant type.
3. Is reverse shoulder replacement more expensive?
Yes. Reverse shoulder replacement involves a more complex implant and usually costs $28,000–$60,000 in the U.S.
4. Which country is the cheapest for shoulder replacement?
Mexico is generally the most affordable, offering surgery for $9,000–$16,000.
5. Are shoulder replacement surgeries abroad safe?
Yes, when performed in accredited hospitals by experienced orthopedic surgeons. Countries such as Turkey, Mexico, Thailand, and South Korea are globally recognized for orthopedic care.
6. How long is recovery after shoulder replacement?
Most patients regain basic mobility in 4–6 weeks, while full recovery can take 3–6 months, depending on the procedure.
7. Will shoulder replacement abroad include implants?
Most medical tourism packages include high-quality implants, but always request a detailed breakdown to confirm.
8. Is physical therapy required after surgery?
Yes. Shoulder replacement requires structured physical therapy to restore movement and strength.
9. Can I fly soon after shoulder replacement abroad?
Most patients can travel home safely 10–14 days after surgery, depending on swelling, pain control, and mobility.
10. Does medical tourism really save money for shoulder replacement?
Absolutely. Many uninsured patients save 50–75%, even after adding travel and accommodation costs.
Conclusion
Shoulder replacement surgery without insurance in the U.S. can cost $22,000 to $60,000, making it unaffordable for many patients. However, top medical tourism destinations like Mexico, Turkey, Costa Rica, Thailand, and South Korea offer the same surgery—with modern technology and experienced surgeons—for $9,000 to $20,000.
At MyMediTour, we help patients connect with accredited hospitals and top joint replacement surgeons abroad. Contact MyMediTour to explore affordable shoulder replacement options and begin your medical travel journey with confidence.
