How to Pick an Orthopedic Surgeon for your Knee Replacement

One of the most important parts of planning your knee replacement surgery is picking a surgeon. It is SO important to pick a surgeon you trust, but also, one that has several good reviews from other people. 

It is your job/responsibility to find a surgeon. Do not just take the first surgeon that is referred to your from your primary doctor or your pain doctor. You want to chose someone who has several positive reviews. 

Here are a few ways to find a surgeon: 

1. Post on Facebook.
   “Hey everyone, I am looking to get a knee replacement in the near future. Does anyone have an orthopedic surgeon they can recommend?” 
   Facebook will give you people within your community that can provide you with real, personal reviews. Hopefully, it is a real friend that you can trust. 
2. Post on the NextDoor App.
   If you do not know what this is, look it up in your App Store on your phone. This is a neighborhood app that people post various things on. There are always great reviews about doctors, restaurants, dog sitters, etc. This is a great resource for finding an orthopedic surgeon in your area. 
3. Contact a Physical Therapist.
   As a PT, I know what surgeons are phenomenal in my area. At this very moment, I have a knee surgeon, hip surgeon, back surgeon, shoulder surgeon at the top of the mind. PT see so many patients post surgery and we know what the patient outcomes look like. *If you are in the Dallas area, and need a review of good surgeons, please email me*
4. Check Google and Research Credibility. 
   Look at Google reviews about your surgeon. Are there any complaints about the surgeon (not necessarily the office staff)? Look at the surgeons educational background, research background if available. 

These 4 suggestions should give you a good start on how to go about picking a good surgeon. As a PT, I definitely know what to expect when I have a patient coming from Dr. ABC vs Dr. XYZ. There is definitely a difference in technique when it comes to surgeon experience.