Shoulder Dislocation Repair in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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Shoulder Dislocation Repair in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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Shoulder Dislocation Repair: Procedure and Recovery in Puerto Vallarta Mexico

A dislocated shoulder is more than just a painful event; it often tears the crucial ligaments and cartilage (the labrum) that keep your joint stable. Once your shoulder pops out of its socket, the risk of recurrent dislocations skyrockets, leading to chronic instability, apprehension during physical activities, and eventually, early-onset arthritis. When physical therapy alone isn't enough to stabilize the joint, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Fortunately, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, has emerged as a premier destination for North Americans seeking advanced orthopedic repairs without the staggering financial burden found at home.

Choosing Puerto Vallarta for your shoulder dislocation repair (often a Bankart repair or a Latarjet procedure) means you are opting for modern, minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. Top-tier orthopedic surgeons in this coastal city frequently utilize tiny incisions and a camera to reattach torn ligaments to the bone using FDA-approved bio-absorbable or titanium anchors. This approach drastically minimizes tissue damage, reduces post-operative pain, and accelerates your rehabilitation timeline.

Beyond the operating room, Puerto Vallarta offers something truly unique: a restorative, resort-style recovery environment. Instead of recovering in a stressful, cold urban setting, patients can spend their initial healing days in a warm, tropical climate overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Many medical centers here offer concierge services that integrate your surgery with specialized post-operative physical therapy right at your hotel.

With board-certified sports medicine specialists, state-of-the-art surgical centers, and costs that are often 50% to 70% lower than in the U.S. or Canada, Puerto Vallarta represents the perfect intersection of high-quality orthopedic care and unparalleled tranquility. It’s an opportunity to permanently fix your shoulder instability while enjoying the warm hospitality of one of Mexico’s most beloved coastal cities.

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Did You Know?

Puerto Vallarta's medical tourism infrastructure is so well-developed that many top orthopedic clinics offer "in-room" physical therapy. A licensed, bilingual physiotherapist can visit your hotel or recovery retreat in the days following your surgery to safely guide you through your initial passive-range-of-motion exercises!

Key Insights at a Glance

1
Minimally Invasive:

Most repairs are performed arthroscopically, resulting in smaller scars, less pain, and faster recovery times.

2
Cost Efficiency:

Patients typically save thousands of dollars, easily covering the cost of surgery, flights, and a luxury recovery stay.

3
Expert Orthopedists:

Surgeons are often board-certified with specialized fellowships in sports medicine and joint arthroscopy.

4
Premium Implants:

Clinics utilize high-grade, internationally recognized surgical hardware (like titanium or PEEK anchors) for lasting stability.

5
Integrated Rehab:

Access to affordable, high-quality physical therapy is built into the medical tourism ecosystem of the city.

6
Stress-Free Healing:

Recovering in a relaxed, scenic environment is proven to lower cortisol levels and promote better physiological healing.

FUN FACT

Healing on the Bay

Puerto Vallarta is situated on the Bay of Banderas, one of the largest and deepest bays in the world. Clinical studies have shown that spending time near "blue spaces" (oceans and large bodies of water) significantly reduces psychological stress and perceived pain levels, making it the ultimate backdrop for orthopedic recovery!

Cost is often the primary factor driving patients to seek care in Mexico. The pricing table below provides a clear comparison of the average costs for an arthroscopic shoulder repair (like a Bankart procedure) in Puerto Vallarta versus standard pricing in the U.S. and Canada. While these figures represent baseline estimates, they illustrate the profound savings available. Your final, personalized quote will depend on the severity of your labral tear and the number of surgical anchors required to stabilize the joint.

Tip: Always have a recent MRI of your shoulder available to send to your chosen clinic; this allows the surgeon to provide a highly accurate surgical plan and cost estimate before you travel.

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Arranging a surgery abroad is significantly easier when you choose a comprehensive package. In the section below, we have identified the top orthopedic providers in Puerto Vallarta that offer all-inclusive bundles. These packages are carefully designed to include your surgical fees, operating room costs, anesthesia, surgical implants (anchors), a specialized shoulder sling, and initial post-op medications. Many also cover ground transportation to and from the hospital. Review these options to secure a seamless, stress-free surgical experience.

Note: Comprehensive surgical packages offer financial predictability, shielding you from unexpected out-of-network hospital fees commonly seen in North America.

A successful joint repair requires a facility equipped with modern arthroscopic imaging and sterile operating environments. We have highlighted a selection of premier hospitals and specialized orthopedic clinics in Puerto Vallarta that are highly rated for sports medicine and joint preservation. These centers are vetted for their state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and adherence to rigorous international safety and hygiene protocols. Explore the profiles below to find a facility you can trust with your mobility.

Safety First: Ensure the medical center you choose is officially certified by the General Health Council of Mexico (CSG), which is the national equivalent of JCI accreditation.

Hearing from fellow athletes or active individuals who have successfully overcome chronic shoulder instability offers incredible peace of mind. The video testimonials featured below showcase real stories from international patients who chose Puerto Vallarta for their orthopedic repair. Watch these candid videos to learn about their experiences with the surgical staff, their pain management protocols, and their triumphant return to the sports and activities they love.

Insight: Patient videos often provide valuable tips on practical matters, such as the best ways to pack for the trip home while wearing an immobilizing sling.

Verified written feedback is a crucial tool for assessing the day-to-day quality of care. In this section, you will find detailed reviews and ratings from patients who have undergone arthroscopic shoulder stabilization in Puerto Vallarta. Read through their comments regarding the surgeon's bedside manner, the clarity of post-operative instructions, and the efficiency of the bilingual support staff. These honest accounts will help guide you toward a confident choice of provider.

Review Tip: Pay close attention to reviews that discuss the clinic’s assistance in organizing physical therapy sessions, as rehab is critical to your final outcome.

Is it safe to get shoulder surgery in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, it is highly safe when you select a properly accredited hospital and a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Puerto Vallarta is a major hub for medical tourism and features modern, state-of-the-art hospitals equipped with the latest arthroscopic technology. The surgeons use the same FDA-approved anchors and sterile protocols as doctors in the United States and Canada. Your safety relies on proper vetting, ensuring your doctor specializes specifically in sports medicine and joint arthroscopy, rather than general surgery.

What types of shoulder dislocation repairs are offered?

The two most common procedures offered are the Bankart Repair and the Latarjet Procedure. An arthroscopic Bankart repair is the standard treatment; it involves sewing the torn labrum (cartilage) back to the socket bone using small anchors. If you have had many dislocations and suffered significant bone loss in the socket, the surgeon may recommend a Latarjet procedure. This is a slightly more complex, open surgery where a piece of bone is transferred to the socket to act as a permanent bony block to prevent future dislocations.

Will I have a large, visible scar?

If you undergo an arthroscopic Bankart repair, the scarring is minimal. The surgeon will make 3 or 4 tiny incisions (about the size of a buttonhole) around the shoulder to insert the camera and surgical instruments. These heal quickly and leave very small, barely noticeable marks. If you require the open Latarjet procedure due to bone loss, you will have a scar about 2 to 3 inches long on the front of your shoulder, which typically fades well over time.

Am I a candidate for this surgery?

You are likely a strong candidate if you have experienced multiple shoulder dislocations, if your shoulder feels loose or "gives way" during daily activities, and if dedicated physical therapy has failed to stabilize the joint. An MRI is required to confirm that you have a torn labrum (Bankart lesion) or stretched ligaments. The surgery is highly recommended for young, active individuals and athletes, as recurrent dislocations can cause severe cartilage wear and early arthritis if left untreated.

How long is the recovery process?

Recovery requires patience. You will need to wear a protective sling immobilizing your arm for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the repaired tissues to heal to the bone. During this time, you can do gentle passive motions guided by a therapist. After the sling is removed, you will undergo intensive physical therapy for several months to regain range of motion and strength. Most patients return to light desk work within a week, but full return to contact sports or heavy lifting typically takes 4 to 6 months.

How long should I stay in Puerto Vallarta after the procedure?

Surgeons typically recommend staying in Puerto Vallarta for 7 to 10 days post-surgery. This allows the medical team to monitor your initial healing, manage your post-operative pain effectively, and remove your stitches. It also gives you time to start your initial, gentle physical therapy in a relaxed environment before navigating the stress of international travel.

How do I manage the flight home with a repaired shoulder?

Flying home requires a bit of planning, but it is very manageable. You must request wheelchair assistance at the airport to avoid walking long distances or being bumped in crowded areas. You will be wearing a secure sling. It is highly recommended to book an aisle seat on the opposite side of your injured shoulder to protect it from the beverage cart and passing passengers. Do not attempt to lift any carry-on luggage yourself; rely entirely on a travel companion or airline staff.

Do the orthopedic surgeons and staff speak English?

Yes. Puerto Vallarta caters heavily to American and Canadian tourists and medical travelers. The top orthopedic surgeons in the international hospitals speak fluent English, and many have completed medical fellowships in the United States or Europe. You can expect your consultations, surgical consent discussions, and post-operative care instructions to be clearly communicated in English. Bilingual patient coordinators are also usually on staff to assist with logistics.

How much does shoulder dislocation repair cost in PV vs. the US?

The financial savings are significant. In the United States, an arthroscopic Bankart repair can cost anywhere from $15,000 to over $25,000, depending on the hospital fees and the anesthesiologist. In Puerto Vallarta, the same procedure, performed by a board-certified specialist using identical surgical anchors, generally costs between $4,500 and $7,000. This lower price point is entirely due to Mexico's lower cost of living and healthcare administration, offering massive relief for uninsured or underinsured patients.

Is physical therapy included or easily available in Puerto Vallarta?

Physical therapy is the cornerstone of a successful shoulder repair. While the surgery fixes the anatomy, PT restores your function. Many high-end medical packages in PV include the first few sessions of physical therapy. Even if not bundled, high-quality, one-on-one sessions with licensed sports physiotherapists are easily accessible and cost a fraction of what they do in the US (often $30 to $50 per hour). Your surgeon will provide a detailed rehabilitation protocol to take back to your physical therapist at home.

Shoulder arthroscopy is a highly technical skill that requires specific training beyond general orthopedics. We have compiled a list of elite, board-certified surgeons in Puerto Vallarta who focus specifically on sports medicine and upper extremity joint preservation. These profiles highlight their specialized fellowships, years of surgical experience, and commitment to minimally invasive techniques. Reviewing these experts will help you find a surgeon capable of restoring your stability and getting you back in the game safely.

1

Sports Medicine Specialists

Board-Certified in Orthopedic Surgery

These surgeons hold certifications from the Mexican Council of Orthopedics and Traumatology (CMOT) and have specialized training in sports-related injuries, ensuring they understand the biomechanics needed to return you to an active lifestyle.

2

Arthroscopy Experts

Masters of Minimally Invasive Techniques

Specialists focused on arthroscopy utilize advanced camera technology to perform complex labral and ligament repairs through tiny incisions, maximizing surgical precision while drastically reducing your recovery time and post-operative pain.

3

Rehabilitation Partners

Integrated Physiotherapy Teams

The best surgeons in PV work hand-in-hand with dedicated, bilingual physiotherapists who begin your passive motion protocols immediately after surgery, ensuring your shoulder heals correctly without stiffening (frozen shoulder).

1

The Perfect Blend of Surgery and Serenity

Orthopedic recovery requires physical rest and low stress. Puerto Vallarta transforms a daunting medical procedure into a "medical vacation." Instead of recovering in a snowy, fast-paced city, patients heal in a warm, coastal environment. The city is highly walkable (or navigable via affordable taxis) and offers a plethora of relaxing, accessible accommodations that cater to individuals recovering from surgery.

2

Exceptional Orthopedic Infrastructure

Puerto Vallarta is home to several top-tier private hospitals (such as Joya Hospital and CMQ Premier) that cater extensively to expatriates and medical tourists. These facilities invest heavily in the latest arthroscopic towers, sterile operating theaters, and advanced imaging (MRI/CT). The orthopedic specialists staffing these hospitals frequently possess international fellowships and strictly follow North American surgical protocols.

3

Massive Financial Relief

For patients with high deductibles or those who are underinsured, shoulder surgery in the US or Canada can be financially devastating. Puerto Vallarta offers elite surgical care at 50% to 70% less than domestic prices. This cost-effectiveness allows patients to afford premium surgical anchors, extensive physical therapy, and a comfortable recovery stay, providing an overall superior healing experience without the crushing medical debt.

Don't let shoulder instability hold you back from the activities you love. PlacidWay serves as your trusted partner, connecting you with elite orthopedic specialists in Puerto Vallarta to ensure a transparent, secure, and stress-free path to regaining your mobility.

Rigorous Provider Vetting

We pre-screen orthopedic clinics and hospitals in Puerto Vallarta to ensure they hold high-level accreditations and feature board-certified sports medicine surgeons.

Personalized Quote Matching

We securely forward your MRI reports to obtain accurate, no-obligation cost estimates from multiple clinics, allowing you to clearly compare surgical packages.

Direct Surgeon Access

We help arrange initial virtual consultations so you can discuss your specific instability issues and the proposed surgical technique directly with your doctor.

Treatment Plan Coordination

We assist you in understanding the inclusions of your surgical package, making sure anesthesia, surgical anchors, and initial physical therapy are transparently outlined.

Verified Patient Support

Access authentic reviews and success stories from other orthopedic patients to help you make an educated, data-driven choice for your joint repair.

Global Patient Advocacy

Our specialized team is available to guide you through the inquiry process, helping you ask the right clinical questions and prepare safely for your travel and recovery.

Take the first step toward a stable, pain-free shoulder today. Contact PlacidWay to receive your free, personalized orthopedic quote and start planning your recovery journey in Puerto Vallarta with confidence.

Get Your Free Personalized Quote

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About Experience

  • Price Range: $6,500 - $6,500
  • Treatment: Shoulder Dislocation Repair, Orthopedic/Knee Surgery
  • Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
  • Clinics: Orthopedic Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Spine Clinic Vallarta, Sportmed Centro Medico, Dr. Humberto Calvillo Jimenez,
  • Doctors Dr. Jose Manuel Hernandez, Dr. Humberto Calvillo Jimenez,
  • Packages Shoulder Dislocation Repair in Puerto Vallarta Mexico,
  • Overview Shoulder Dislocation Repair: Procedure and Recovery in Puerto Vallarta Mexico