Luxating Patella Surgery Cost 2026: Price & Grades Explained
How much does knee cap surgery cost for dogs 2026? We explain Luxating Patella grades (1-4), surgery costs ($2,000-$4,000), and insurance waiting periods.
Dr. Sarah Chen
Veterinarian & Pet Health Expert
You notice your small dog skipping a step while running, or holding one back leg up for a few seconds before walking normally again. This “skipping” is the classic sign of a Luxating Patella (floating kneecap).
It’s extremely common in small breeds like Yorkies, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas. While mild cases can be managed, severe cases require expensive surgery to prevent crippling arthritis.
In 2026, the average cost of Luxating Patella surgery is $3,200 per knee.
💰 2026 Cost Breakdown: By Complexity
The cost depends on the “Grade” of the dislocation (severity).
| Severity | Surgery Needed? | Est. Cost (Per Knee) |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Rarely | N/A (Conservative Mgmt) |
| Grade 2 | Sometimes | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Grade 3 | Yes | $2,800 – $4,000 |
| Grade 4 | Yes (Complex) | $3,500 – $5,000 |
Pro Tip: Doing both knees (Bilateral) at the same time is cheaper than two separate surgeries, typically costing $5,000 – $7,000 total.
🏥 The Procedure: Realigning the Groove
The goal is to keep the kneecap in its groove (trochlea).
- Trochleoplasty: Deepening the groove in the femur so the kneecap sits deeper.
- Tibial Tuberosity Transposition: Moving the attachment point of the tendon to straighten the pull mechanism.
- Available Hardware: Pins and wires are used to hold the bone in its new place.
🛡️ Insurance Coverage Analysis
The Hereditary Hurdle Luxating Patella is highly hereditary.
- Good News: Modern pet insurance covers hereditary conditions.
- Bad News: Bilateral Exclusions apply. If your dog was diagnosed with a “Grade 1” knee on the left side before insurance, the insurer may exclude both knees from coverage, arguing it’s a systemic genetic flaw.
Waiting Periods: Expect a 6-month waiting period for this condition on most policies unless you get a “orthopedic waiver” exam from your vet.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dog live with Luxating Patella without surgery?
Grade 1 and mild Grade 2 dogs often live happy lives with pain meds and joint supplements. Grade 3 and 4 dogs suffer from mechanical lameness and pain, making surgery necessary for quality of life.
Is recovery difficult?
Yes. It requires 6-8 weeks of strict crate rest. No jumping, no running. This can be very challenging with high-energy small breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is luxating patella surgery?
Costs range from $2,000 to $4,500 per knee. Bilateral surgery (both knees at once) may cost $4,000 to $7,000.
What is Grade 3 Luxating Patella?
Grade 3 means the kneecap is permanently dislocated but can be pushed back in manually. It usually causes lameness and arthritis.
Is this condition covered by pet insurance?
Yes, but it often has a 6-month orthpedic waiting period. It is considered a hereditary condition.