Title:
Knee Replacement Cost in Savannah, GA – 2025 Complete Guide
Introduction:
Facing the possibility of knee replacement surgery can be overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure about the costs involved. If you’re wondering about the cost of knee replacement in Savannah, GA, you’re not alone. Many patients are concerned about affordability, insurance coverage, and what to expect financially. We’ve sourced data from trusted medical and government authorities to help you understand the full picture in 2025, specifically for residents of Savannah and surrounding areas.
What is the average cost of knee replacement in Savannah, GA?
The average cost of a total knee replacement in Savannah, GA ranges from $30,000 to $55,000, depending on the facility, surgeon, and type of implant used. According to Healthcare Bluebook, the fair price for a total knee replacement in the Savannah area is approximately $36,000, which includes hospital fees, surgeon fees, and anesthesia. However, this cost can vary significantly based on whether the procedure is performed in an inpatient hospital setting or an outpatient surgical center.
CMS.gov data also shows that Medicare reimbursements for knee replacement procedures in Georgia average around $15,000 to $20,000, which may not reflect the total billed amount but gives insight into baseline costs. It’s important to note that private insurance and out-of-pocket payments often exceed these figures.
What factors affect the cost of knee replacement?
Several variables can impact the total cost of knee replacement surgery. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), key factors include the type of implant used, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, and the facility type (hospital vs. outpatient center). Patients with pre-existing conditions may require additional services, such as specialized anesthesia or extended hospital stays, which can increase costs.
Geographic location also plays a role. In Savannah, costs may be slightly lower than in larger metropolitan areas like Atlanta due to lower overhead and facility fees. FairHealth.org notes that regional pricing differences can account for up to a 20% variation in total cost. Additionally, whether the procedure is unilateral (one knee) or bilateral (both knees) will significantly affect the price.
Does insurance cover knee replacement?
Yes, most insurance plans—including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers—cover knee replacement surgery when deemed medically necessary. According to CMS.gov, Medicare Part A typically covers hospital stays, while Part B covers outpatient services and physician fees. Patients are still responsible for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance unless they have supplemental coverage.
Private insurance plans often require pre-authorization and may have specific criteria, such as documented evidence of conservative treatments (physical therapy, medications) before approving surgery. The American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) notes that coverage levels can vary widely, so it’s essential to check with your insurer for a detailed breakdown of what’s included and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.
Are there payment plans or financing options available in Savannah?
Yes, many orthopedic practices and surgical centers in Savannah offer payment plans or third-party financing to help manage the cost of knee replacement. According to the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), providers often partner with medical financing companies like CareCredit or Alphaeon Credit to offer interest-free or low-interest plans for qualified patients.
Additionally, nonprofit hospitals in Savannah, such as St. Joseph’s/Candler, may offer income-based financial assistance programs. These programs can reduce or even eliminate costs for uninsured or underinsured patients. It’s advisable to speak directly with the billing department of your chosen facility to explore all available options before scheduling surgery.
How does the cost in Savannah compare to other Georgia cities?
The cost of knee replacement in Savannah is generally 5–15% lower than in larger Georgia cities like Atlanta or Augusta. According to FairHealth.org, the average cost in Atlanta can reach up to $60,000, while Savannah’s average remains closer to $36,000–$45,000. This difference is largely due to lower facility fees and a smaller market size, which can reduce overhead costs.
Healthcare Bluebook also supports this trend, noting that procedures performed in smaller cities often come with more competitive pricing. However, patients should weigh cost against factors like surgeon experience and hospital quality when choosing where to undergo surgery.
What’s included in the knee replacement cost?
The total cost of a knee replacement typically includes pre-operative consultations, imaging (X-rays or MRIs), the surgical procedure itself, anesthesia, hospital or surgical center fees, and post-operative care. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), physical therapy sessions and follow-up visits are often bundled into the overall cost, especially if the provider offers a comprehensive care package.
However, not all services may be included upfront. For example, durable medical equipment (like walkers or braces), additional imaging, or extended rehabilitation may incur extra charges. Always request a detailed cost estimate from your provider to understand exactly what’s covered.
Do I need additional procedures, and how much do they cost?
Some patients may require additional procedures before or after knee replacement. These can include arthroscopy, injections (such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid), or physical therapy to prepare the joint. According to FairHealth.org, pre-surgical injections can cost between $500 and $1,200 per treatment, while physical therapy sessions may range from $100 to $200 each, depending on the provider.
In rare cases, patients may need revision surgery if the initial implant fails. The American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) reports that revision knee replacements can cost up to 50% more than primary procedures, often exceeding $70,000. Discuss your specific condition with your orthopedic surgeon to determine if any additional procedures are necessary.
How long does the knee replacement process take?
The entire knee replacement process—from initial consultation to full recovery—can take 3 to 6 months. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the surgical procedure itself lasts about 1 to 2 hours, followed by a hospital stay of 1 to 3 days for most patients. Outpatient procedures may allow same-day discharge.
Post-operative recovery includes physical therapy, which typically begins within 24 hours of surgery and continues for 6 to 12 weeks. Full recovery, including a return to normal activities, may take up to 6 months, depending on age, health status, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Your orthopedic team in Savannah will guide you through each phase of the process.
What is the success rate of knee replacement?
Knee replacement surgery is highly successful, with a satisfaction rate of over 90%. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), more than 90% of knee implants last 15 to 20 years, and many patients report significant pain relief and improved mobility.
Success rates can vary based on factors like the patient’s age, weight, activity level, and overall health. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery published a study showing that patients under 60 may have slightly higher revision rates, but still benefit from improved quality of life. In Savannah, reputable orthopedic centers often track patient outcomes to ensure high standards of care and long-term success.
Are there affordable alternatives to knee replacement?
Yes, there are several non-surgical and minimally invasive alternatives to knee replacement. These include physical therapy, weight management, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, and orthobiologic treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP). According to the American College of Rheumatology, these treatments can provide temporary relief for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.
However, these options are generally less effective for advanced joint degeneration. Costs vary widely: PRP injections can range from $500 to $2,000 per session and are often not covered by insurance. Discussing these alternatives with a board-certified orthopedic specialist in Savannah can help determine the best course of action based on your condition and budget.
How can I find a qualified orthopedic surgeon in Savannah?
To find a qualified orthopedic surgeon in Savannah, start by checking credentials through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS), which verifies board certification. You can also consult the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) directory for a list of board-certified specialists in your area.
Local hospital systems like Memorial Health University Medical Center and St. Joseph’s/Candler have reputable orthopedic departments. Look for surgeons with extensive experience in knee replacement, positive patient reviews, and affiliations with accredited hospitals. It’s also wise to schedule consultations with multiple providers to compare treatment plans and cost estimates.
What is the recovery process like