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Meniscus Repair Surgery in Mexico
Meniscus repair surgery is a common orthopedic procedure used to treat a torn meniscus — one of the most frequently injured structures in the knee. It is typically performed arthroscopically (using small incisions and a camera) and is recommended when non-surgical treatments like rest, physical therapy, or injections have failed to relieve symptoms.
At My Medical Vacations, we coordinate safe and affordable meniscus procedures in Cancun with experienced orthopedic teams and complete recovery support tailored for international patients.
What Is the Meniscus and Why Repair It?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci — one on the inner (medial) and one on the outer (lateral) side. They act as shock absorbers, stabilize the joint, and protect surrounding cartilage.
Tears can result from:
Surgery is considered when the tear causes persistent pain, swelling, locking, or limited mobility, and does not respond to conservative care.
Types of Meniscus Surgery
Your orthopedic surgeon will decide between two main options, depending on the tear pattern, location, and your activity level:
Meniscus Repair
- The torn cartilage is sutured (stitched) and stabilized so it can heal.
- Preferred for younger, active patients or tears in areas with good blood supply.
Meniscectomy (Partial Removal)
- The damaged part of the meniscus is trimmed and removed.
- Recommended when repair is not possible (e.g., degenerative or complex tears).
Both are usually performed arthroscopically. Repair is preferred when feasible, as it preserves more of the meniscus and reduces long-term joint degeneration.
How the Procedure Works
Surgery duration: 45 to 90 minutes
Type of anesthesia: General or spinal anesthesia
Hospital stay: Outpatient or 1-night stay
Steps
- Small incisions are made to insert a camera and surgical instruments.
- The tear is either sutured (repair) or trimmed (meniscectomy).
- Incisions are closed and the knee is wrapped for support.
Most patients begin gentle range-of-motion exercises shortly after surgery.
Recovery Timeline
| Type of Procedure | Timeframe | Recovery Milestones |
| Meniscectomy | 2 to 6 weeks | Return to walking in days; light activity in 2–3 weeks |
| Meniscus Repair | 4 to 6 months | Longer healing; limited weight-bearing initially |
General Timeline:
- Desk work: 1–2 weeks (meniscectomy); 2–4 weeks (repair)
- Return to sports: 6+ weeks (meniscectomy); 4–6 months (repair)
- Full recovery depends on the extent of the tear and individual healing
Physical therapy is essential in both cases to restore movement, strength, and joint stability.
Most international patients return home 10 to 14 days after surgery, based on the procedure and recovery progress.
Benefits of Meniscus Surgery
- Pain relief and reduced inflammation
- Improved knee function and joint stability
- Preservation of cartilage when the meniscus is repaired
- Faster return to activity (especially after partial removal)
Early treatment of meniscus tears can prevent further damage to the knee joint.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, risks include:
- Infection
- Blood clots (rare)
- Joint stiffness or swelling
- Failure of the repair to heal (especially if activity is resumed too soon)
- Increased risk of osteoarthritis after meniscectomy (if too much tissue is removed)
Your orthopedic surgeon will recommend the safest and most effective option for your case.
What’s Included in a Meniscus Surgery Package in Mexico
My Medical Vacations offers fully coordinated packages for international patients, including:
- Pre-surgical consultation and imaging review
- Arthroscopic meniscus repair or removal
- Hospital and anesthesia fees
- Post-surgical follow-up and medications
- Initial rehabilitation support
- Airport transfers, hotel coordination, and local transportation
- English-speaking medical concierge support
Common Questions from Patients
Will I need crutches after surgery?
Yes, especially after a meniscus repair. You may need crutches or a brace for 2–4 weeks.
Can I walk right away?
After a meniscectomy, most patients walk the same or next day. After a repair, weight-bearing is limited initially.
How soon can I return to sports or the gym?
Light exercise may resume in a few weeks after removal; for repairs, it may take several months.
Will physical therapy be provided?
Yes, our team provides initial therapy sessions and guidance to continue rehab once you return home.
Authoritative Sources
Content based on expert guidance from:
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Peer-reviewed orthopedic literature
Why Do It In Cancún ?
Cancun is rapidly becoming one of the most popular medical tourism and medical travel destinations in the world. This is mostly due to the quality in hospitals, surgical centers, dental clinics using modern medical technology. Moreover, Cancun is close from home and offers extraordinary all-inclusive beachfront hotels designed for every budget.
Why Do It With My Medical Vacations?
Our programs were specifically designed to address the international patient. We know what is needed to have a positive experience and to sum it up, we present our 7 most important features.
The Most Experienced Team
From the moment you make first contact, your case will be managed by one of our experienced and qualified MTC´s (Medical Tourism Consultant), who have more than 15 years of combined experience.
We have successfully assisted over 5,000 foreign patients to complete their dreams and goals of health and aesthetic ! You will be communicating with reliable professionals who will guide you through
the entire process, always looking for your best interest and safety.
Immediate Response guaranteed
From your first inquiry to all of your subsequent doubts or questions, our highly experienced team of MTC’s (Medical Tourism Consultants) will provide you with the answers you need on an immediate basis.
Accurate / Useful Information Provided
Our MTC team has managed more than 1500 cases of international patients in the area of Cosmetic Surgery alone! Their perspective along with all of our surgeon´s recommendations will make you feel at ease. We promise!
Worry Free Organization Of Your Medical Trip
Our team will assist you with booking and organizing every little detail to ensure the perfect Medical Vacation.
We remind you that all of our packages include:
- Private airport transfers.
- All ground transfers (Hospital, Hotel, Appointments)
- Personal Bilingual Assistance
- Translation services
- City Guidance
- Medical Appointments
- And more…
We Choose To Promote Only The Best
Our concept is simple: Only work with the best.
All of the surgeons and specialized physicians MUST meet our criteria to be part of our network.
It is not ONLY about experience, training and credentials; we promote surgeons that KNOW how to treat the international patient with impeccable records and fully bilingual of course.
We have no obligation to promote any specific surgeon whatsoever. We CHOOSE the best.. for you!
Comprehensive Post Op Care Program
All of our packages also include the most complete follow up program available. Our multidiscipline staff includes: Specialized Registered Nurses (You will absolutely love them), certified Patient concierge (They will make everything easier for you) and more.
After being released from the hospital, our team will take over, providing and assisting you every step of the way.
You will never feel alone… if anything you will feel like part of the family!
Long Distance Follow Up
Our service doesn’t stop after our airport farewell! Our medical tourism consultant team will keep close communication, informing your surgeon about your progress and of course answering any doubt or question you may have at this stage and until you are completely recuperated and back to your normal life.
Awards and Certifications
