Medically Reviewed By: Dr. David Warmflash (MD), Dr. Omar Samara (MD)
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico
Bid farewell to lingering shoulder pain with rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico. Worried if the costs are sky-high? You’ll enjoy a whopping 77% savings! Read this article to learn more about fixing your torn tendon and restoring movement.
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery: Insights
Each year atleast 75,000 Americans undergo these surgeries to get their torn rotator cuffs repaired.[1] Rotator cuff repair is associated with chronic pain, shoulder weakness, and inability to move it.
Look at the picture below to gain quick insights into rotator cuff repair.
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery: Snapshot
Before we learn more, let's take a closer look at the quality of care you can expect in Mexico.
Rotator Cuff Surgery in Mexico: Reviews
Here are just a few among numerous heartfelt experiences by contented patients.
Give them a read!
Joa Visschedijk, UKRotator Cuff Surgery, Mexico
I would like to thank all the staff and medical team. They helped me regain my life that was on the sidelines for so many years.
Laura San Juan, USRotator Cuff Surgery, Mexico
Dr. Raul Arjona is very kind and professional. He explained my son's problem in detail, & answered patiently all our questions!
P.H., USRotator Cuff Surgery, Mexico
Dr. Greig was exactly what I hoped for. He examined my shoulder, and took my MRI CD. Surgery results are perfect!
Sydney Dettmer, USOrthopedic Surgery, Tijuana
My mother had surgery here. They were kind, punctual, and informative. I’d recommend them to anyone.
Vela Lopez, USRotator Cuff Surgery, Mexico
It was the first time I went to Hospital de La Familia. I am surprised by the treatment here. It was super clean & budget-friendly prices.
Repairing the rotator cuff will ease shoulder ache when non-surgical attempts fail. Opting for surgery in Mexico can be a wise choice. You will get excellent care at a fraction of the cost compared to the US.
Don't solely rely on our statement. Explore the cost details and see for yourself.
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery Cost in Mexico
Mexico offers you affordable ortho treatment. The costs here in Mexico are far lower than in the US. The cost of rotator cuff surgery in Mexico is$5,300.
On the other hand, you will have to pay $24,000 for the same in the US. It is more than four times that of the Mexican cost rotator cuff surgery.
Look at the cost table below for comparing rotator cuff surgery costs in Mexico and the US.
| Treatment | US | Mexico | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rotator cuff repair surgery | $24,000 | $5,300 | 77% |
#Prices are case-dependent.
How To Pay for Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico?
You can choose from the following payment methods:
- Cheques
- Credit cards
- Bank transfers
Furthermore, if needed, you can also avail financing with Supermoney.
Many believe that lower prices indicate lower quality. However, lower prices for rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico do not mean poor quality.
Curious to know why rotator cuff repair surgery cost in Mexico is low? Scroll further down to find an answer!
Tired after countless efforts to ease your shoulder pain?
Reasons for Low Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery Cost in Mexico
Reduced treatment expenses in Mexico are due to:
Mexican cost of living is lower than in the US.[2] Further, transportation and housing rates are lower in Mexico.
This does not pose an excess burden for doctors here.
Healthcare staff in Mexico earn less than in other countries. Mexican doctors earn 14-times less than US doctors.[3]
So, paying them isn't expensive for the Mexican hospitals.
In Mexico, medical studies have low tuition fees.[4] This means that students graduate without any debt from their medical education.
This makes them focus more on treatment instead of making money to pay for their expenses.
In the US, doctors often order expensive medical tests to prevent lawsuits.[5] However, Mexican doctors don't require costly malpractice insurance, unlike the US.[6]
So, no excess tests!
Aren't the low costs already making you think it's a good choice? Let's look more closely at all the benefits of having your rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico.
Perks of Having Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico
Here are the benefits of choosing Mexico for Rotator cuff repair surgery:
Big Savings
Shoulder surgery cost in Mexico is far more affordable than in the US.
In Mexico, you can pay only one-fourth of the cost for rotator cuff repair surgery in the US.
Opting for Mexico can result in savings of 77% on your treatment.
Save Big With Rotator Cuff Surgery in Mexico
Premier Healthcare
Our partner hospitals hold a legacy of more than 50 years in service. They have cutting-edge technology. In addition, their operating rooms are ISO 9002 certified.
Furthermore, our partnered orthopedic surgeons in Mexico are highly skilled. They have experience in performing over 3,000+ surgeries.
Besides, they are members of AMECRA, AAHKS, FEMECOT, AAOS, and AANA.
Other Benefits
Our partnered hospitals and surgeons in Mexico ensure top-tier orthopedic care for you.
Alongside, you'll relish other benefits like nutritionist consultation and post-surgery support.
Further, in Mexico, we work with English-speaking medical professionals.
Hence, the language problems are minimal.
Nutritionist Consultation
Furthermore, there are no waiting periods to get your surgery in Mexico.
Convenience of Travel
Border Crossing To Reach Mexico
Reaching our partnered hospitals and surgeons in Mexico is easy due to its closeness to the US.
Many airlines have non-stop flights to major Mexican airports.
You can also drive to the border cities with ease.
Plus, you'll be personally picked up if needed.
Refreshing Vacation
Undergoing a rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico is far from dull. You can turn it into a refreshing vacation experience.
The locals are warm and friendly. Further, you may treat your taste buds with the famous Mexican cuisine while you're there.
Tacos
Gorditas
Tamales
Intrigued? Learn more about our partner hospitals in Mexico.
Best Hospitals for Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico
Here are the leading orthopedic hospitals providing rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico.
For over 60 years, the Hospital in Tijuana has been a global leader in healthcare.
The BBB-accredited hospital offers various services, including general and orthopedic surgery, bariatric procedures, and alternative cancer treatments.
With over 100,000 patients from more than 60 countries, it’s a trusted name in cancer care.
- 60+ Years of Excellence
- 100K+ Happy Patients
- BBB Accreditated
Highlights:
- Bilingual staff
- Nutritionist consultation
- Advanced imaging technology
- Board-certified and licensed surgeons
- Proximity (18 miles from US- Mexican border entry port and 26 miles from San Diego airport).
All-inclusive cuff repair surgery packages:
- Ground transport
- Stay for patient & companion
- Aftercare support
- Surgical & hospital fees
Explore Mexico's Oasis of Hope by watching this video.
Oasis of Hope, Mexico
The Family Hospital is licensed and regulated by the Mexican Department of Health,
It is a reputable multi-specialty facility in Mexicali, Mexico, with around 60% of its patients coming from the U.S
Many of the hospital's physicians are U.S.-trained and recognized as top surgeons in northern Mexico.
With board-certified surgeons, advanced facilities, and a dedicated medical tourism department, it is a top destination for medical tourism in Mexico.
- 20+ Years of Experience
- GHC Certified
- ISO Certified
Highlights:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Board certified surgeons
- ISO 9002 certified operating rooms
- 24 hours running in-house lab and pharmacy
- Personal pick up from location within 130 miles from Mexicali, Mexico
Leading orthopedic surgeons will perform your rotator cuff shoulder surgery in Mexico.
Meet the Top Orthopedic Surgeons in Mexico
Below is an overview of the education and experience of the top orthopedic surgeons in Mexico.
Have a look.
Dr. Maximilian Greig
Dr. Greg, an eminent member of North American orthopedic associations, serves local and international patients.
He is also a Mexican board-certified orthopedist and fellow in Joint Replacement (Germany) and Sports Medicine (USA).
Educación
- National University of Mexico
Membresías
- American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
- The Arthroscopy Association of North America
- Mexican Association of Arthroscopy Surgeons
Dr. Jesús Raúl Arjona Alcocer
Recognized by the CMOT, Dr. Alcocer has treated 17,000+ orthopedic patients.
He has also served local Quintana Roo teams, including Yalmakan FC, as part of his community outreach initiatives.
Educación
- Autonomous University of Yucatan
Membresías
- International Society for Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery, and Sports Medicine
- Mexican Federation of Orthopedic and Traumatology Colleges AC
- Mexican Society of Hip Surgery
Don't wait for complexities to arise. Act now to detect early and prevent complications. Now let's learn about rotator cuff tear and its repair in Mexico.
All About Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico
The rotator cuff is the common name for the group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint.[7]
They offer strength and stability to the shoulder as it moves.
In short, they help your shoulders to flex, extend, and allow you arm to go overhead, move in and out, and turn around.
Rotator Cuff
However, sometimes, these tendons experience tear and need repair. It is the common cause of pain and limited movement among people aged above 50 years.
Torn Tendon in a Rotator Cuff
A rotator cuff repair surgery will repair a torn tendon in the shoulder. The surgeon will stitch it to its original site on the upper arm bone to restore normal movement.[8]
Who Needs Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico?
Rotator cuff surgery might be needed if:[9]
- You've had a recent acute injury
- You are experiencing pain for 6-12 months
- Non-surgical methods have not relieved your pain
- You notice weakness and limited shoulder mobility
Painful Shoulder
What Causes Rotator Cuff Tear?
In general, a rotator stuff tear can be due to:[10]
- Lifting heavy weights suddenly
- Falling on a stretched arm by accident
- Overusing the same shoulder for regular work or sports
- Tears from getting older when tendons don't get as much blood
Falling On Stretched Arm Causes Rotator Cuff Injury
The Need for Surgery Depends on the Extent of Damage!
Shoulder Injuries While Throwing
Athletes frequently experience rotator cuff injuries. Especially, while bowling, throwing, or wicket-keeping.
The need for surgery always depends on the extent of damage.
Drew Christopher Brees needed surgery to repair his bruised rotator cuff.
He is a former American football quarterback and suffered a major tear of 50%.[11]
However, this was not same for a prominent American basketball shooting guard.
Kobe Bryant, could play for multiple seasons after a rotator cuff injury before undergoing surgery.[12]
Unsure about surgery or another option? Fret not! Your surgeon will assess you and help you choose the right treatment. Why wait?
Make your choice with confidence by seeking expert opinion. Reach out to us and let us be with you in your journey.
Who Is Not an Ideal Candidate for Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico?
In general, you are not eligible for rotator cuff repair surgery if you:
- Smoke
- Are aged above 65 years
- Have poor tendon and tissue quality
- Believe you cannot follow rehabilitation measures
- Are a diabetic or suffering from a chronic illness like cancer
Source: Orthoinfo[13] Verywell Health[14]
Now, let's explore the different surgical approches that orthopedic surgeons employ to repair a rotator cuff injury.
Types of Rotator Cuff Repair Surgeries in Mexico
Your surgeon will pick the right type of surgery to fix your torn shoulder tendon.
It is based on:[15]
- Extent of damage
- Surgeon’s preference and expertise
- Activities you want to do after healing
Below are the three types of rotator cuff surgeries:
Your surgeon will create small cuts that are a few centimeters in length. This lets them see the injured tendons and attach them to the bone with stitches.
While there are newer methods available, this traditional approach is still chosen for:
- Complicated tears
- Conditions that need extra tendon transfers
Source: Orthoinfo[16]
It is a minimally invasive technique. Your surgeon will insert an arthroscope with a camera in the damaged area.
The camera shows a live video on a screen. The surgeon watches this video and uses special tools to fix the problem.
Source: Orthoinfo[17]
Your surgeon checks damage with a tiny camera (arthroscope). They will remove small damaged pieces.
Further, they will make tiny cuts to fix the injured tendon by looking at it directly. It involves a smaller incision than regular open surgeries.
Source: Orthoinfo[18]
Interested in knowing the process of the rotator cuff repair surgery? We have you covered.
Procedure of Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico
Your surgeon will assess you before the surgery procedure.
He will:
- Review your clinical and family medical history.
- Order imaging tests like MRI, ultrasound, or arthrogram.
- Physically examine you to gauge strength, tenderness, and sensation.
- Order preoperative tests like CBC, EKG, and a comprehensive metabolic panel.
Physical Examination
Blood Test
How to prepare for rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico?
Before your rotator cuff surgery, we suggest you to:
- Wear loose clothing, as you'll need to wear a sling post-surgery.
- Restrain yourself from eating and drinking after midnight the night before the procedure.
- Your doctors will instruct you on how to pause anticoagulant medications, antiplatelet medications, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications for a certain amount of time prior to the surgery.
Source: Verywell Health[19]
On the surgery day, the hospital staff will check your vital signs, which are:
- Heart rate
- Oxygen saturation
- Temperature
- Breathing rate
- Blood pressure
Your surgeon will attach the torn tendons to the bone with metal or sutures that dissolve over time.[20]
Checking Blood Pressure
The entire procedure may take two hours and will be under anesthesia.[21]
General anesthesia:
- You’ll be unconscious during the procedure and won’t feel the pain, nor will you remember the surgeon's operation on you.
- General anesthesia is not sleep, but rather a deeper state of unconsciousness, accompanied by an inability to feel pain, amnesia, and muscle paralysis.
Regional anesthesia:
- Transmission of signals through certain nerves is blocked throughout the operation
- You’ll be awake and know what’s happening, although you might be drowsy and doze off. Often, anesthesiologists allow patients undergoing regional anesthesia to elect whether or not to receive certain medications that will make them sleepy but are not needed to prevent pain.
- The shoulder area, and often the entire arm, will be numb
- However, you’ll receive a sedative to relax during the procedure, which, as noted above, could make you doze off.
You will have to stay in the hospital for a day and can move to a hotel after the anesthesia wears off.
Stay in the hotel for 5-7 days and then can go home.
Note that recovery after rotator cuff repair surgery takes several months.[22]
Wear a sling for 4-6 weeks to let your tendons heal.
As you recover, reintroduce normal shoulder movements slowly.
Wear a Sling After Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico
Pain
You'll feel some pain after surgery.
Your medical providers will allow you to use pain-relieving medicines like opioids, NSAIDs, and local anesthetics after consulting with your surgeon.
If the pain doesn't lessen over time, contact your surgeon right away.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is crucial for the success of treatment. Start gentle physical therapy exercises guided by a therapist in 4-6 weeks.
Progress slowly to active exercises. Around 8-12 weeks, begin a strengthening program.
Source: Orthoinfo[23]
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico
Worried about complications? Here is everything you need to know.
Do Complications Arise After Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico?
Rotator cuff surgery in Mexico has a low incidence of complications.
However, like any surgery, there's a small chance of issues like:
- Blood clots
- Infections
- Nerve injuries
- Tendon re-tear
- Adhesions
Attending follow-up appointments and discussing concerns with your surgeon reduces these risks.
Source: NCBI[24]
Wondering about the safety of rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico? Check out the below section.
Is It Safe To Get a Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico?
Rotator cuff repair in Mexico is safe if you research well and approach the best orthopedics. At MTC, we work closely with leading orthopedic experts to ensure your well-being.
MTC teams up with well-known surgeons and excellent hospitals after careful checks. We consider the surgeon’s expertise, memberships, and patient feedback.
Our associated hospitals in Mexico have ISO 9002-certified operating rooms. Moreover, they follow the highest level of safety standards.
In addition, they have state-of-the-art technology equipment. Further, their in-house labs and pharmacies operate round the clock.
This makes sure you don't have to worry about fake medicines in local pharmacy stores. Furthermore, our partnered Mexican surgeons are board-certified and highly skilled.
They have success records of performing over 3,000 orthopedic surgeries. So, you're in capable and secure hands.
Ready for your trip? Know what you need for travel before you plan.
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in Mexico: Travel Guide
Let’s begin with the visa and passport requirements for entering Mexico.
Visa and Passport
You will need the following documents for entering Mexico.
- Entry permit or FMM
- Valid passport book with blank pages
- Tourist visa, to stay for more than 180 days
- Vehicle import permit, valid driver's license, and auto insurance to drive into Mexico
Digital FMM Process
Mexico switched on to the digital FMM's.
Here is everything you need to know.
- Your digital FMM process will start when you enter Mexico at the airport or entry port
- Specify your length of stay and get your passport stamped
- Instead, get a QR code printed receipt at self-service E-gates
Source: Travel.State.Gov[25] Travel.State.Gov[26] Progressive[27]
Now, let's learn about traveling to Mexico.
Reaching Mexico for Rotator Cuff Repair
We recommend you travel to:
Reaching our partner clinic in Tijuana is easy. You may drive through the San Ysidro port of entry and reach here.
It is only 18 miles and will take 30 min to get from the border.
Tourist attractions in Tijuana:
- Tijuana arch
- Tijuana cultural center
- Relax and swim at Tijuana Beach
- Catedral de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe
- Leisurely walk along Avenida Revolución
Tijuana Cultural Center
Beach in Tijuana
Tijuana Arch
Reaching out to our partner hospitals in Mexicali is quite convenient. You may drive through the Calexico East Port of Entry.
It is a 1-mile distance from the border and will take 5 min to reach here from the border.
Tourist attractions in Mexicali:
- Sol del Nino
- Centro Estatal de las Artes
- Institute for Cultural Research Museum
You may fly to Cancun International Airport (IATA: CUN) to visit our associated surgeon in Cancun. It would take 15 min to drive the 9.9-mile distance from airport.
Many US airlines have non-stop flights to Cancun.
| City (IATA code) | Flying time |
|---|---|
| Florida (MCO) | 2 hr 1 min |
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 15 min |
| Austin (AUS) | 2 hr 33 min |
| Dallas (DFW) | 2 hr 45 min |
| New York (JFK) | 3 hr 58 min |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 4 hr 42 min |
Tourist attractions in Cancun:
- Ventura park
- Cenotes of Yucatan
- Mayan Museum of Cancun
- Zona Arquelogica EI Rey
You may fly to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (IATA: PVR) to visit our associated surgeon in Puerto Vallarta. The airport is 10 miles away from the surgeon's location.
You can easily reach there with a quick 18-minute drive.
| City (IATA code) | Flying time |
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 35 min |
| Dallas (DFW) | 2 hr 50 min |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 2 hr 59 min |
| San Fransisco (SFO) | 3 hr 40 min |
| Austin (AUS) | 5 hr 19 min (one stop) |
Things to do in Puerto Vallarta:
- Visit Vallarta Botanical Garden
- Zip lining, jungle ATV rides, snorkeling, sky-diving
Curious about other orthopedic treatments in Mexico?
Click the links- whether for you or your loved ones, these insights could prove invaluable.
FAQs
The average cost for rotator cuff surgery in Mexico is far more affordable than in the US. It costs you $5,300 to get it done in Mexico.
With this price you will save up to 77% here in Mexico. The same will cost you around $24,000 in the US.
Recovery after rotator cuff surgery depends on adherence to post-surgery instructions. Doing easy exercises around 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery will help you get the best results.
Around 95% of patients are happy with their overall quality of life after surgery.[28]
Medicare and Medicaid doesn't cover rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico. But you can check the private or Mexico's government-sponsored IMSS insurance plans.[29]
The eligibility depends on the case. We suggest you to contact our medical tourism consultants for the accurate details of your case.
Getting rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico is getting top-notch medical care with 77% cost reduction. The cost of rotator cuff surgery without insurance can be expensive.
However, here in Mexico, you'll get good prices at the best hospitals. Moreover, you'll get treated by the leading surgeons without extended wait periods.
Also, you can enjoy perks like transport, free Wi-Fi, and no charges for a companion's stay.
Once your anesthesia wears off, you may move to hotel room after the rotator cuff surgery. You may stay there for 5-7 days before returning back home.
We suggest you to refrain from driving yourself for 2 weeks post-surgery.[30] This ensures a smoother and successful recovery.
Conclusion
Get relief from persistent shoulder discomfort with rotator cuff repair surgery in Mexico. Accessing premier hospitals and skilled surgeons is seamlessly hassle-free.
Also, you'll have a chance for a bonus vacation. Don't delay.
References
1. NCBI: A 5-Year Follow-up of Patients Treated for Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears
2. Physiopedia: Rotator Cuff
3. Orthoinfo: Rotator Cuff Tears: Surgical Treatment Options
4. Orthoinfo: Rotator Cuff Tears
5. Drafts Sharks: Drew Brees Injury History and Updates
6. Sports Casting: Kobe Bryant Played With Torn Rotator Cuff in His Shoulder
7. Verywell Health: Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery: Everything You Need to Know
8. Verywell Health: What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
9. Verywell Health: Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery
10. Medline Plus: Rotator Cuff Repair
11. NCBI: Surgery for rotator cuff tears
12. Expatistan: Cost of living in Mexico compared to United States
13. Mexico News Daily: Doctors, nurses confront coronavirus—with long hours and low pay
14. 10 News San Deigo: American students attend medical school in Mexico to save money
15. Scientific American: COVID’s Other Toll: Unnecessary Tests and Huge Hospital Bills
16. Lexology: The regulation of healthcare providers and professionals in Mexico
17. Travel.State.Gov: Mexico International Travel Information
18. Travel.State.Gov: Crossing the U.S. - Mexico Border by Land
19. Progressive: Requirements for driving to Mexico
20. Springer: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in patients over 70 years of age
21. JS and JB: Patients Who Undergo Rotator Cuff Repair Can Safely Return to Driving at 2 Weeks Postoperatively
22. Mexperience: Is Your U.S. Medicare Coverage Available in Mexico?
