Every year, thousands of Americans and Canadians are packing their bags — not for a beach vacation, but for surgery. Welcome to the rising world of medical tourism, where expert orthopedic care meets tropical recovery. Among all the destinations, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is emerging as a premier choice for patients seeking affordable, high-quality orthopedic treatment.
Whether it’s a worn-out knee or a sports injury, the right surgery can restore your quality of life. And if you’re looking to save money without compromising on safety or expertise, Mexico — and specifically Dr. Enrique Vélez’s clinic in Cabo — might just be your best-kept secret.
Here are the top 5 orthopedic surgeries Americans are getting in Mexico, and why more patients are choosing Cabo to heal.
1. Total Knee Replacement
As one of the most common orthopedic surgeries worldwide, knee replacement is a go-to solution for people suffering from arthritis, injury, or severe joint degeneration. But in the U.S., this procedure can easily cost over $50,000 USD, leaving many uninsured or underinsured patients in pain.
In Mexico, the same surgery — using the same FDA-approved implants and techniques — is often 70–80% cheaper, ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 USD.
Why Cabo?
Dr. Vélez specializes in minimally invasive knee replacements, allowing patients to walk the same day and begin a faster, more comfortable recovery. The backdrop? Ocean breezes and world-class hospitality instead of hospital hallways.
🦴 Fun fact: Many patients in Cabo undergo physical therapy just steps away from the beach, combining medical precision with healing relaxation.
2. Hip Replacement Surgery
For active adults over 50, hip pain can be life-altering. In the U.S. and Canada, hip surgery often comes with long waitlists or sky-high costs, depending on your insurance.
Mexico — and especially Cabo — offers immediate access to advanced, muscle-sparing hip replacements, often using the anterior approach which is known for faster recovery and less pain.
Why Cabo?
Dr. Vélez provides personalized care in a modern surgical center with bilingual staff, full pre-op diagnostics, and expert follow-up. Patients appreciate the quick booking and the opportunity to recover in comfort rather than chaos.
💡 Travel tip: Many patients stay in luxury recovery suites or partner hotels, combining their medical visit with a mini healing vacation.
3. Shoulder Arthroscopy
From CrossFit injuries to aging rotator cuffs, shoulder problems are skyrocketing — and many require arthroscopic surgery to repair tears or remove inflamed tissue.
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique using a small camera and tiny tools — but in the U.S., even this “simple” procedure can cost $15,000–$25,000 USD.
Why Cabo?
With high-definition surgical systems, modern operating theaters, and orthopedic teams like Dr. Vélez’s, patients get access to cutting-edge care at a fraction of the price.
🔍 Did you know? Cabo’s orthopedic centers often include post-op physical therapy as part of your recovery package.
4. ACL Reconstruction (Knee Ligament Repair)
ACL tears are common among athletes, skiers, and even weekend warriors. Yet in North America, these surgeries can cost upwards of $20,000 USD and involve weeks (or months) of waiting.
Why Cabo?
With short booking windows, advanced grafting techniques, and guided rehabilitation protocols, Dr. Vélez helps patients get back on their feet faster — literally. Many opt for ACL reconstruction in Cabo to avoid the red tape of the U.S. system.
🏃 Bonus: Some clinics in Cabo offer tele-rehab programs, so patients can continue recovery at home with remote guidance.
5. Foot & Ankle Surgery (Including Bunions and Fractures)
Foot pain can impact your entire quality of life — especially for older adults or active travelers. Surgeries like bunion correction, tendon repair, or ankle fusion are growing in popularity among medical tourists.
Why Cabo?
Foot and ankle surgeries in Mexico often have shorter wait times, expert podiatric care, and outpatient options that allow for faster mobility. Many patients report walking on the beach within days, not weeks.
👣 Pro tip: Bring supportive sandals — you’ll be moving sooner than you think.
Why Cabo San Lucas Is Leading the Way in Orthopedic Medical Travel
✅ World-Class Surgeons
Dr. Enrique Vélez is a U.S.-trained, board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 8 years of experience and thousands of successful surgeries. His patient-first approach and advanced surgical skill make him one of Mexico’s most trusted orthopedic specialists.
✅ Modern Surgical Facilities
The hospital-grade clinics in Cabo offer clean, internationally accredited environments, equipped with the latest orthopedic tools and recovery amenities.
✅ Personalized, English-Speaking Care
Patients receive 1-on-1 consultations, concierge support, and transparent pricing — with no hidden fees or confusing hospital bills.
✅ Faster Access, Better Recovery
No waitlists. No overbooked hospitals. Just efficient care and tropical recovery in one of the safest, most visited destinations in Mexico.
Final Thoughts: Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico Is More Than a Trend — It’s a Smart Choice
With thousands of success stories and a rising wave of North Americans choosing affordable care abroad, orthopedic medical travel to Cabo isn’t just practical — it’s transformative.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic knee pain, a sports injury, or a life-limiting joint condition, there is a better way forward — and it might just start with a flight to Cabo.
✈️ Ready to Heal?
Book a virtual consultation with Dr. Enrique Vélez today and discover how world-class orthopedic care in Cabo can change your life — and save you thousands.
📞 Contact us | 📍Cabo San Lucas, Mexico | 🌐 www.docvelez.com
