FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Knee Replacement Questions, Answered
Everything US patients ask us most about pain-free knee replacement with Dr. Kalender in Istanbul, from whether you’re a candidate to flying home. Can’t find your question? Ask us directly. His team answers in English.
THE APPROACH
The pain-free approach
Why choose Dr. Kalender for my knee replacement?
Because the approach is his own. Dr. Kalender developed pain-free knee replacement himself over about 10 years, and he is the surgeon you talk to first, the one who performs your surgery and the one who leads your care. You get the person behind the approach, not a handoff.
What are the advantages for me as a patient?
Lower pain in the first days, walking the day after surgery, usually just one night in the hospital and, for many suitable patients, little formal physical therapy. For US patients it also means a free online consultation and a personal quote before you commit to anything, and a trip that is planned around your recovery.
Is pain-free knee replacement really possible?
That is exactly what Dr. Kalender’s approach is designed for: keeping pain as low as possible from the first hours after surgery, so you can rest, sleep and walk the day after surgery. Everyone feels it differently, though, and some discomfort is a normal part of healing.
How is it different from a conventional knee replacement?
The difference comes from Dr. Kalender’s own surgical approach, which he developed himself, and the recovery plan that goes with it. For you, that means lower pain in the first days, walking the day after surgery, usually one night in the hospital and, for many suitable patients, little formal physical therapy.
Will I really walk the day after surgery?
Walking the day after surgery is at the center of the approach. Most patients stand and take their first steps with support the day after surgery, guided by the care team.
How long will I stay in the hospital?
For most patients, one night. Leaving the hospital doesn’t mean flying home: after you’re discharged you rest in Istanbul, and your stay there and your flight back to the US are planned separately, based on your recovery. You leave the hospital once you’re walking confidently and know your exercises, wound care and the warning signs to watch for.
Will I still need physical therapy?
You’ll still do exercises: you learn your home program before you leave the hospital. Many suitable patients need little or no formal physical therapy. If extra therapy would help you, Dr. Kalender will tell you.
AM I A CANDIDATE?
Am I a candidate?
Who is a good candidate for knee replacement?
People whose knee pain and stiffness limit daily life and no longer respond well to painkillers, injections or physical therapy. Dr. Kalender looks at your symptoms, your imaging and your general health together.
Do I need X-rays or an MRI to get started?
They help, but you can start without them. If you have recent X-rays or an MRI, upload them with your request. If not, we’ll tell you what imaging is needed.
My BMI is over 35. Can I still be considered?
Possibly. BMI is one of several factors, not an automatic cut-off. Send your details and Dr. Kalender will discuss what’s possible and what may need to happen first.
Is there an age limit?
There’s no fixed upper or lower age. The decision depends on your symptoms, your imaging and your overall health.
Another doctor told me I’m not ready for surgery. Can I still get a review?
Yes. A second opinion can help you understand your options, and Dr. Kalender will give you his honest view, even if that means surgery isn’t the right step yet.
Not sure if you’re a candidate?
YOUR SURGERY
Your surgery
Will Dr. Kalender perform my surgery himself?
Yes. He reviews your case, performs your surgery and leads your care.
What kind of anesthesia will I have?
Most operations are done under spinal anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist makes the final decision after your assessment.
How much pain should I expect?
Everyone feels pain differently, and some pain after knee replacement is normal. Your pain plan is prepared before surgery, checked before you leave the hospital, and you go home with clear instructions for managing it.
Is the difference in the implant?
No. The approach lies in how Dr. Kalender performs the surgery and plans your recovery, not in a single product. He selects the implant for your knee individually.
How long does a knee replacement last?
Most knee replacements last many years. A 2019 review in The Lancet found that about 93% had not needed revision surgery after 15 years, about 90% after 20 years and about 82% after 25 years. How long yours lasts depends on factors such as your weight, activity level and overall health, and Dr. Kalender will talk through what this means for you during your consultation. Read the full guide →
Source: Evans et al., The Lancet, 2019, as summarized by NIHR Evidence.
COST AND YOUR QUOTE
Cost and your quote
How much does knee replacement in Turkey cost?
It depends on your knee, your health and your plan. Instead of a general price list, you receive a personal quote after Dr. Kalender reviews your X-rays or MRI and talks with you.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. The review of your imaging, the video consultation and your quote are free, with no obligation to proceed.
What should I budget for besides surgery?
Your stay in Istanbul, flights, transfers, medications and supplies for the trip, and any follow-up at home. We’ll go through what your quote covers with you.
Will Medicare or my US insurance cover surgery in Turkey?
Original Medicare usually doesn’t cover health care outside the US, and coverage under private plans varies. Check with your insurer before you decide. Read the full guide →
Want a personalized quote?
YOUR PERSONAL QUOTE
Get your personal quote from Dr. Kalender
Send your X-rays or MRI. Dr. Kalender will review your case and talk it through with you by video, and you’ll receive a personal quote for your treatment in Istanbul.
TRAVEL AND YOUR STAY
Travel and your stay in Istanbul
How many days should I plan to stay in Istanbul?
It depends on your plan and your recovery. Your expected stay, including the time after you leave the hospital until you’re cleared to fly, is discussed during your consultation, so you can book a flexible return.
When can I fly home?
Leaving the hospital and being ready for a long flight are two separate decisions. Dr. Kalender clears you to fly based on your recovery and your risk of blood clots, and gives you a plan for the journey.
Can someone travel with me?
Yes, and it’s recommended. A companion can help with bags, the airport and your first days at home.
Will my new knee set off airport security?
It may. Let the security officer know you have a knee implant before screening.
Planning your trip from the US?
RECOVERY
Recovery and after you go home
How long does recovery take?
As a general guide, most people return to most daily activities within about 3 to 6 weeks, and the knee keeps improving for several months. Many feel the full benefit within the first year.
What happens after I return to the US?
Dr. Kalender’s team stays in touch remotely, and we recommend keeping your local doctor informed about your surgery.
When should I call a doctor?
Contact a doctor promptly if you have a fever, wound redness or drainage, new calf pain or swelling, or pain that keeps getting worse. Chest pain or shortness of breath needs emergency care right away.
GETTING STARTED
Getting started
Can I be assessed online before I travel?
Yes. Through the free online consultation you share your X-rays or MRI and your medical history. Dr. Kalender reviews them and tells you whether knee replacement is right for you.
What happens after I send the form?
Our team reviews your details and any images you shared, then contacts you by email or WhatsApp to arrange a video call with Dr. Kalender.
How is my information protected?
Your details and images are used only to review your case and contact you about your consultation.
FREE ONLINE CONSULTATION
Still have questions? Ask Dr. Kalender.
Send your X-rays or MRI and talk your options through with Dr. Kalender, by video and in English. It’s free, with no obligation.