Knee Replacement in Seomyeon, Busan
Knee replacement (arthroplasty) is surgery that resurfaces a badly worn knee joint with metal and plastic components to relieve arthritis pain. In Seomyeon, it is done at orthopedic hospitals with inpatient wards: a 1–2 hour operation, a hospital stay of usually one to two weeks in Korea, and walking with support from the first days.
Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:
What is knee replacement?
In knee replacement (인공관절 수술), the surgeon removes damaged cartilage and a thin layer of bone from the thigh and shin bones and fits metal components, with a plastic spacer that acts as a smooth gliding surface. A partial replacement resurfaces only one compartment of the knee. Some hospitals use computer navigation or robotic-assisted systems to help with alignment; ask what your surgeon uses and why.
Who is it for?
- People with severe knee arthritis confirmed on X-ray
- Pain that limits walking, stairs or sleep despite medicine, injections, weight management and exercise
- Increasing bow-leg or knock-knee deformity from arthritis
Surgery is a quality-of-life decision. Good general health and willingness to commit to rehab matter as much as the X-ray.
What happens at the hospital
- Orthopedic consultation: exam, standing X-rays and discussion of total vs partial replacement.
- Pre-op workup: blood tests, ECG, chest X-ray and review of medicines such as blood thinners and diabetes drugs.
- Surgery: joint surfaces are prepared and components fixed in place.
- Ward stay: pain control, clot prevention and daily physiotherapy to bend and straighten the knee.
- Discharge: home exercises, wound care and follow-up dates.
Recovery and aftercare
Most patients stand and walk with a frame within the first days. Bending range improves over weeks with consistent exercise. Swelling and warmth can last several months. Many people return to walking, cycling and swimming; high-impact running and jumping are usually discouraged to protect the implant.
Risks and side effects
Risks include blood clots, infection (which may require further surgery), stiffness, persistent pain in a minority of patients, numbness beside the scar, and implant wear or loosening over many years. Medical risks such as heart or lung complications are higher in people with existing conditions.
Choosing a clinic for knee replacement in Seomyeon
- Choose a hospital with an inpatient ward, anesthesia team and in-house rehab, not a day clinic.
- Ask how many knee replacements the surgeon performs and whether partial replacement is an option for you.
- Ask which implant system is used and whether navigation or robotic assistance is involved.
- Ask how infection prevention and clot prevention are handled.
- Check whether a caregiver (간병인) service or family stay is possible, and whether discharge notes can be provided in English.
Planning a stay
Knee replacement is not suited to a short trip. If you travel to Busan for it, plan for the hospital stay plus early follow-up. Seomyeon's metro interchange (Lines 1 and 2) makes outpatient visits after discharge easier.
Key facts
- Treats: advanced knee osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis with severe pain
- Types: total knee replacement (TKR) or partial (unicompartmental) replacement
- Procedure time: about 1–2 hours per knee
- Anesthesia: spinal or general, often with a nerve block
- Hospital stay: commonly around 1–2 weeks in Korea
- Walking aid: walker or crutches for several weeks
- Full recovery: often 3–6 months, with gradual improvement up to a year
Frequently asked questions
How long do knee replacements last?
Modern knee implants commonly last many years, often 15–20 years or more, but lifespan varies with activity, body weight and implant type. Revision surgery is possible if a component wears out or loosens.
How painful is knee replacement recovery?
The first weeks are the hardest. Nerve blocks, medication and ice help, and pain usually eases steadily. Doing the exercises despite discomfort is important to avoid stiffness.
Total or partial knee replacement: which do I need?
Partial replacement suits arthritis limited to one part of the knee with healthy ligaments. Total replacement is used when wear is widespread. X-rays and examination decide which is appropriate.
Is knee replacement covered by National Health Insurance?
Knee replacement for arthritis that meets medical criteria is generally covered by NHI for enrolled patients, with co-payments. Some options may be non-covered extras, so ask for a detailed estimate.
When can I drive after knee replacement?
Many people resume driving after around 4–6 weeks, once they can brake firmly and are off strong painkillers. Right-knee surgery usually takes longer than left. Follow your surgeon's advice.
Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.