Knee Replacement Cost in Savannah, GA – 2025 Complete Guide
Facing the cost of knee replacement in Savannah, GA can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with pain and mobility issues. In 2025, understanding what you might pay—and why—is more important than ever. This guide breaks down the costs using data from trusted sources like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, CMS.gov, Healthcare Bluebook, and FairHealth.org. Whether you’re insured, underinsured, or paying out of pocket, this article will help you make informed decisions in Savannah’s healthcare landscape.
What is the average cost of knee replacement in Savannah, GA?
The average cost of a total knee replacement in Savannah, GA ranges from $28,000 to $52,000 in 2025, depending on the facility and insurance coverage. According to Healthcare Bluebook, the fair price for a total knee replacement in the Savannah area is approximately $34,500. This estimate includes hospital fees, surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and implant costs.
CMS.gov data shows that Medicare reimbursements for knee replacements in Georgia average around $12,000–$15,000, which often reflects lower negotiated rates for insured patients. However, uninsured or out-of-network patients may face higher charges. FairHealth.org also reports that out-of-pocket costs can vary significantly based on insurance type and deductible levels.
It’s important to contact local providers directly for a personalized estimate, as costs can differ between hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and orthopedic practices in Savannah.
What factors affect the cost of knee replacement?
Several factors influence the cost of knee replacement surgery in Savannah, GA. The most significant include the type of procedure (partial vs. total knee replacement), the facility (hospital vs. outpatient center), and the surgeon’s experience. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), hospital-based procedures tend to be more expensive due to higher overhead costs.
Other cost drivers include the type of implant used, anesthesia fees, pre-operative imaging, and post-operative rehabilitation. The AAOS notes that newer, custom-fitted implants or robotic-assisted surgeries may increase costs but could offer better outcomes for some patients.
Insurance coverage, deductibles, and whether your provider is in-network also play a major role. According to FairHealth.org, patients with high-deductible health plans may pay more out of pocket, especially if they haven’t met their annual deductible.
Does insurance cover knee replacement?
Yes, most insurance plans—including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers—cover medically necessary knee replacement surgery. According to CMS.gov, Medicare Part A and Part B typically cover hospital stays, surgery, and post-operative care for total knee replacement if deemed medically necessary by your physician.
Private insurance plans also usually cover the procedure, but out-of-pocket costs vary depending on your deductible, co-insurance, and network status. The American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) advises patients to confirm pre-authorization requirements and ensure the surgeon and facility are in-network to avoid unexpected charges.
Medicaid coverage varies by state, but Georgia Medicaid generally covers knee replacement for eligible patients. It’s important to speak with your insurance provider to understand exactly what’s covered and what your financial responsibility will be.
Are there payment plans or financing options available in Savannah?
Yes, many orthopedic practices and surgical centers in Savannah offer payment plans or financing options for patients undergoing knee replacement. According to Healthcare Bluebook, providers often partner with third-party financing companies like CareCredit or offer in-house payment arrangements for those without insurance or with high out-of-pocket costs.
Nonprofit hospitals in Savannah may also provide financial assistance programs based on income. For example, St. Joseph’s/Candler Health System offers financial counseling and sliding-scale payment options for qualifying patients. It’s advisable to ask about these options during your initial consultation.
Additionally, some patients use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to help manage costs. These tax-advantaged accounts can be used to pay for eligible medical expenses, including surgery, anesthesia, and physical therapy.
How does the cost in Savannah compare to other Georgia cities?
Compared to other cities in Georgia, knee replacement costs in Savannah are generally mid-range. According to FairHealth.org, average total costs in Atlanta range from $30,000 to $55,000, slightly higher than Savannah’s $28,000 to $52,000 range. Smaller cities like Macon or Augusta may offer slightly lower prices, averaging around $26,000 to $48,000.
However, cost differences often reflect variations in facility type, surgeon experience, and regional demand. The Georgia Department of Community Health notes that urban centers like Atlanta may have more specialized providers but also higher facility fees, while smaller cities may offer fewer options but lower costs.
Ultimately, the best value depends on provider quality, insurance network participation, and the comprehensiveness of services included in the quoted price.
What’s included in the knee replacement cost?
The total cost of a knee replacement typically includes several components: surgeon’s fees, hospital or facility fees, anesthesia, the knee implant, pre-operative testing, and post-operative care. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, these bundled services are often reflected in the overall price quoted by providers.
Healthcare Bluebook outlines that a typical breakdown might include $15,000–$25,000 for the hospital stay, $4,000–$6,000 for the surgeon’s fee, $1,000–$2,000 for anesthesia, and $3,000–$5,000 for the implant itself. Physical therapy and follow-up visits may or may not be included, depending on the provider.
Always ask for an itemized estimate to understand what is—and isn’t—included in the quoted cost. This helps avoid surprise bills and allows you to compare providers more accurately.
Do I need a partial or total knee replacement, and how much does it cost?
Whether you need a partial or total knee replacement depends on the extent of joint damage. According to the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, partial knee replacements are suitable when only one part of the knee is affected by arthritis or injury. These procedures are less invasive and often have shorter recovery times.
In Savannah, a partial knee replacement typically costs between $20,000 and $35,000, while a total knee replacement ranges from $28,000 to $52,000, per Healthcare Bluebook. The lower cost of partial procedures reflects shorter hospital stays and less extensive surgical work.
Your orthopedic specialist will determine which option is best based on imaging, physical exams, and your overall health. Choosing the right procedure can impact both cost and long-term outcomes.
How long does the knee replacement process take?
The entire knee replacement process—from initial consultation to full recovery—can take several months. According to the AAOS, the surgery itself typically lasts 1–2 hours, followed by a hospital stay of 1–3 days, depending on the patient’s health and whether the procedure is done in an inpatient or outpatient setting.
Pre-operative preparation, including imaging and lab tests, may occur weeks in advance. Post-surgery, most patients begin physical therapy within 24 hours and continue for 6–12 weeks. Full recovery can take 3–6 months, though some patients report improvements for up to a year.
Planning for time off work, transportation, and home modifications is essential. Your provider will give you a personalized timeline based on your age, health status, and type of procedure.
What is the success rate of knee replacement?
Knee replacement surgery is considered highly successful. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, over 90% of knee replacements are still functioning well 10–15 years after surgery. Advances in surgical techniques and implant materials have further improved outcomes in recent years.
Patient satisfaction rates are also high. A study published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that more than 85% of patients report significant pain relief and improved mobility after surgery. Factors that influence success include the surgeon’s experience, adherence to post-operative rehab, and patient health.
Choosing a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and following a structured rehabilitation plan are key to achieving the best possible outcome.
Are there affordable alternatives to knee replacement?
Yes, several non-surgical treatments may delay or reduce the need for knee replacement. According to the AAOS, alternatives include physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, weight loss, bracing, and medications like NSAIDs.
The cost of these treatments varies. For example, physical therapy in Savannah may cost $100–$150 per session, while corticosteroid injections range from $300–$600 per shot. These options are often covered by insurance when deemed medically necessary, according to CMS.gov.
While these treatments don’t reverse joint damage, they can improve function and reduce pain, especially in early