New Knees in Chengdu — and Getting Back to Walking
A patient from New Zealand shares his bilateral knee replacement in Chengdu — the process, the physiotherapy, and recovery.
Name changed for privacy. This is a representative patient story, not a guarantee of outcomes or cost.
I’m a 67-year-old from Wellington with painful knees. After considering options, I came to Chengdu for a bilateral knee replacement.
Why we chose China
- Cost and value — the total was well below what I understood the same surgery to cost in New Zealand.
- Experience — the orthopedic team at the hospital performs very high volumes of joint replacement.
- Physiotherapy — early, structured physio was built into the program, which I’d read is key to a good result.
What actually happened
- Remote consult — I sent my X-rays and got a plan and quote first.
- In Chengdu: pre-op workup, both knee replacements, and a hospital stay with daily physiotherapy.
- Recovery: physio continued after discharge; I was walking comfortably within weeks.
What I’d tell others
- Recovery is won in physio — don’t skip it.
- Do a remote consult so you know the plan and cost.
- Allow time for recovery before you fly home.
I’m back on my feet and much more active.
⚠️ Outcomes vary by person and condition. This is a personal account. Make decisions with your treating orthopedic team.