About
Minimally-invasive kneecap realignment and cartilage repair
Kneecap Realignment & Cartilage Repair
Specialists in preserving your natural knee with minimally-invasive realignment and cartilage repair.
At A Glance
Effective
Referrals
Not Needed
Booking
Instant-book option available
Cost
Lincolnshire
£6,500
Nature of Kneecap Realignment & Cartilage Repair
Kneecap misalignment or cartilage damage can cause chronic pain at the front of the knee, especially during activities like climbing stairs, squatting, or rising from a seated position. Realignment procedures restore proper tracking of the patella, reducing pressure on the joint, while advanced cartilage repair techniques help regenerate or preserve healthy tissue.
This approach treats the underlying cause of pain, not just the symptoms, allowing for better long-term outcomes and maintaining the natural structure of the knee.
Common causes of kneecap injuries
Kneecap pain and instability can stem from various underlying conditions:
- Patellar Maltracking or Instability: When the kneecap doesn’t move properly within its groove, it creates uneven pressure and chronic discomfort.
- Cartilage Damage or Chondromalacia: Softening or wear of the cartilage behind the kneecap leads to grinding sensations, stiffness, and persistent pain.
- Recurrent Dislocations: Repeated episodes of the kneecap slipping out of place can damage surrounding cartilage and soft tissue, leading to long-term instability.
- Post-Traumatic Injury: Previous knee fractures or impacts can alter kneecap alignment and compromise joint health.
- Failed Prior Treatments: Persistent pain or instability despite physiotherapy, bracing, or prior surgeries may require realignment or cartilage restoration.
- Congenital or Structural Factors: Certain knee shapes or genetic predispositions can increase the risk of misalignment and cartilage wear over time.
Diagnosis
Patients typically experience:
- Persistent pain at the front of the knee
- Grinding or catching sensations when bending
- Instability or repeated kneecap dislocations
Prof Lee performs a comprehensive assessment, including physical examination and imaging (X-rays, CT scans, or MRI), to determine whether you are suitable for realignment, cartilage repair, or – in rare cases, partial kneecap replacement.
Suitable for
Treatment overview
Our approach is centered on preserving your natural joint and addressing the root cause of pain, rather than replacing the kneecap unnecessarily. Our team offer a comprehensive suite of advanced, minimally-invasive treatments tailored to each patient’s condition:
- Realignment Surgery: Corrects the position of the kneecap to restore smooth tracking and reduce excess pressure on the cartilage.
- Cartilage Repair and Regeneration: Techniques such as microfracture, biological scaffolds, and stem cell therapy encourage natural cartilage healing and restoration of healthy joint surfaces.
- Targeted Injections: Hyaluronic acid, liquid cartilage injections, and other biologic treatments provide lubrication, reduce inflammation, and support tissue repair.
- Soft Tissue Balancing: Procedures to tighten or release ligaments around the kneecap can help stabilize and protect the joint.
- Partial Kneecap Replacement: Used only when damage is severe and repair options are no longer effective, ensuring bone and tissue preservation wherever possible.
This patient-focused strategy not only reduces pain and restores stability but also helps delay or avoid major joint replacement surgery, enabling a faster return to everyday activities and sports.
Benefits
Preserves natural bone and joint structure
Ideal for younger or active patients not yet suitable for full knee replacement
Minimally-invasive approach means smaller incisions, less scarring, and quicker recovery
How to Pay
We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.
Paying for Yourself
(Preferred Option)
Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:
Bank Transfers
Credit/Debit Cards
Cash (in person only)
Instalment Plans
We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.
Finance Options
Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.
Instant online decision
No impact on your credit score
Multiple lenders for competitive rates
Private Medical Insurance (Limited Availability)
We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.
Treatment Booking Process
01
Online booking/callUse our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.
02
ConsultationOur doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.
03
TreatmentOnce your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.
04
RehabFollowing your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.
05
Follow UpYou will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.
06
DischargeOnce your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I start to notice results?
Who is this treatment for?
Looking for Treatment in London?
We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.
Specialist in Cartilage Repair & Joint Preservation
Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.
Harley Street Clinic
Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-className musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.
Transparent Pricing & Direct Booking
If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.
Faster Recovery Outcomes
Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.
Book a free Discovery Call
Don’t wait to find relief. Whether it’s a consultation, scan, or treatment, we’re ready to help. Book a call with the admin team to discuss.
Click to Book