Restore your mobility and eliminate chronic knee pain — with a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at MAC Hospitales, steps from the US border, at a fraction of the US cost.
Knee replacement surgery — also called knee arthroplasty — is a procedure in which the damaged cartilage and bone surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with artificial components (implants). These implants recreate the smooth, pain-free movement of a healthy knee joint.
Total knee replacement replaces all three compartments of the knee: the medial (inner), lateral (outer), and patellofemoral (kneecap) surfaces. Partial replacement — also called unicompartmental replacement — addresses only the affected compartment when damage is limited to one area. Dr. Carballo will recommend the appropriate approach based on your imaging and symptoms.
For many patients, knee replacement is life-changing. The combination of eliminated pain, restored range of motion, and the ability to walk, climb stairs, and return to daily activities without discomfort represents a dramatic quality-of-life improvement.
At BajaMedLife, your knee replacement is performed by Dr. Daniel Carballo — orthopedic and traumatologist surgeon at MAC Hospitales in Mexicali — 2 hours from Phoenix, steps from the US border.
Knee replacement typically takes 1.5–2.5 hours under general or spinal anesthesia. Physical therapy begins the day after surgery.
General or spinal anesthesia is administered based on your health history and anesthesiologist recommendation. Your vitals are monitored continuously throughout the procedure by a board-certified anesthesiologist.
A precise incision is made over the knee — typically 6–10 inches — to expose the joint. The damaged cartilage and bone surfaces of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and in some cases the patella (kneecap) are identified.
The surgeon carefully removes the damaged cartilage and a thin layer of bone from the ends of the femur and tibia. The bone surfaces are shaped precisely to receive the implant components, ensuring a proper fit and correct alignment.
Metal components are fitted to the prepared surfaces of the femur and tibia. A durable plastic spacer is inserted between them to allow smooth, low-friction movement. If the kneecap is resurfaced, a plastic button is cemented to the back of the patella. Components are secured with bone cement.
The incision is closed with sutures. Drainage tubes may be placed briefly to prevent fluid buildup. The day after surgery, a physical therapist begins assisted standing and walking exercises in your hospital room — early mobilization is key to an optimal recovery.
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Modern, accredited orthopedic facility in Mexicali — steps from the US border. Private room, orthopedic nursing team, and full post-op monitoring.
Board-certified orthopedic and traumatologist surgeon with 6+ years at MAC Hospitales. Known for exceptional outcomes and a patient-first approach.
Hotel Lucerna or Araiza in Mexicali — full-service, accessible rooms, and a comfortable setting for your recovery before returning to the US.
Airport pickup, hospital transfers, hotel shuttle, and border crossing coordination. All logistics handled — you never navigate on your own.
Sergio coordinates everything from your first call to your return home. One person, one WhatsApp, total peace of mind throughout your trip.
All required X-rays, bloodwork, and cardiac clearance is arranged through MAC Hospitales before your procedure date.
You will know your surgeon by name before you ever set foot in Mexico.
Dr. Daniel Carballo is a board-certified orthopedic and trauma surgeon with 6+ years of focused practice at MAC Hospitales in Mexicali. Specializing in joint replacement and trauma surgery in Baja California, he is known for exceptional outcomes, precise surgical technique, and a thorough, patient-centered approach to pre-operative planning and post-operative recovery. He is the orthopedic surgeon of choice for BajaMedLife international patients seeking knee and hip replacement.
View Full Profile →Your procedure is performed using advanced minimally invasive techniques at MAC Hospitales — a nationally accredited facility steps from the US border. Smaller incisions, faster recovery, less scarring.
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