Robotic knee surgery has brought major improvements in precision and reliability for joint replacement. But choosing the right robotic knee surgeon in Sydney involves more than just selecting someone who offers this technology. While platforms like Mako SmartRobotics™ and VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution can support accurate implant placement, your outcome still depends heavily on the skill and judgment of the person performing the operation: your knee surgeon.
Below, we break down what to look for when choosing a robotic knee surgeon, what questions to ask, and how to ensure you’re making a safe, well-informed decision. This guide is written for patients in Sydney, where access to robotic systems and specialist-led care can vary.
1. Understand the Surgeon’s Actual Role in Robotic Surgery
Robots don’t perform surgery. Instead, they assist the surgeon by providing enhanced tools for planning and precision. The surgeon still makes every key clinical decision, including how to prepare the bone, align the implant, and manage soft tissue balance.
Whether your surgeon is using the Mako system (which relies on a pre-operative CT scan) or the VELYS platform (which creates a model in real time during surgery), their experience and judgment guide every action. A robot is only as useful as the expert operating it.
Gaining a clearer view of how robotic knee surgery works may help you better understand the role of technology in the operating theatre and how it integrates into a surgeon’s workflow.
What to ask:
How do you personally use robotic technology to improve outcomes during surgery?
2. Ask How Experienced They Are With Robotic Systems
Not all surgeons who offer robotic-assisted surgery have the same level of experience. Years in orthopaedic practice doesn’t always mean years of using robotics. It’s important to ask how often the surgeon performs robotic knee replacements and what system they use.
Some surgeons may specialise in total robotic replacements, others in partial surgeries, and not all are trained in both the Mako and VELYS systems. Each platform works differently. Mako uses pre-op CT imaging, while VELYS generates an intra-operative model. Experience in one doesn’t necessarily translate to the other. Assessing robotic surgery suitability can give you a clearer sense of the criteria they might consider.
What to ask:
Which robotic system do you use, and how often? Have you performed many cases similar to mine?
3. Confirm They’re a Specialist in Knee Surgery
Orthopaedic surgeons may treat many joints, but robotic knee surgery requires a detailed understanding of knee alignment, motion, and soft tissue balance. That’s where subspecialty matters.
Look for a surgeon who focuses specifically on knees, ideally someone with fellowship training or advanced certification in knee surgery. You can also ask whether they routinely perform other knee-specific procedures such as ligament reconstructions, knee arthroscopy, and complex revision surgeries. This level of focus often translates to a deeper grasp of how to tailor a robotic plan to your anatomy.
What to look for:
- Does the surgeon limit their practice to knee procedures?
- Have they completed post-specialisation training in knee surgery?
- Do they regularly perform both robotic and non-robotic knee procedures?
4. Ask Which Hospitals They Operate At, And What Systems Are Available
Robotic knee surgery can only be performed at hospitals that have the right equipment. In Sydney, not all private or public facilities offer access to either Mako or VELYS systems.
It’s essential to confirm whether the surgeon has operating rights at hospitals with the robotic system needed for your procedure. For example, Norwest Private Hospital (NBH) will begin offering Mako Total Knee SmartRobotics™ from mid-August 2025, which will benefit eligible private health patients. Knowing what systems are available, and why your surgeon prefers one over the other, can help you understand your options better.
What to ask:
Will my surgery be performed at a hospital with robotic access? Which system is used there, and why do you prefer it?
5. Find Out How They Personalise Pre-Operative Planning
One standout benefit is the ability to create a personalised surgical plan before any incisions are made. The way this is done depends on the system used.
Mako uses a CT scan to generate a detailed 3D model before surgery begins. VELYS builds the model intra-operatively, using real-time data. In both cases, the surgeon fine-tunes alignment and implant positioning based on your anatomy and soft tissue characteristics. A transparent surgeon will walk you through this plan and explain how decisions are tailored to you.
What to ask:
How will you personalise my surgical plan using the robotic system? Will I be able to see the model or alignment goals beforehand?
6. Clarify Cost, And Whether Robotic Surgery Is Charged Extra
Cost can be a sensitive but important part of planning for surgery. In some practices, robotic knee surgery is billed as an additional fee. This is not the case with Dr Jonathan Negus, a specialist knee surgeon in Sydney. Robotic-assisted procedures using Mako or VELYS are not charged extra in his practice or at the hospitals where he operates.
Surgeon fees typically fall between $3,000 and $8,000, depending on factors such as:
- Your health insurance cover
- Hospital selection
- Applicable Medicare rebates
In this context, robotic and non-robotic surgeries are priced the same.
What to ask:
Is there any additional charge for robotic surgery? What does your fee include?
7. Check If They Offer Both Robotic and Traditional Options
While robotic surgery is suitable for most knee replacement patients, it’s not ideal for every case. Knee conditions like severe deformities, poor bone quality, or limitations in imaging may lead your surgeon to recommend a different approach.
It’s important that your surgeon can explain both robotic and traditional methods, and can offer both if needed. An honest discussion about what’s best for your situation is a hallmark of good care.
What to ask:
Will you assess whether robotic or traditional surgery is better for my case?
8. Ask About Surgical Precision and Outcome Tracking
Robotic systems are designed to improve precision, but ongoing outcome monitoring is still critical. Ask your surgeon how they assess surgical accuracy during and after the procedure.
Some may use intra-operative sensors, post-op imaging, or structured scoring systems to track things like implant alignment, range of motion, and patient function over time. This data helps ensure that the surgical plan was executed safely and effectively.
What to ask:
How do you track results or surgical accuracy in robotic cases? Do you use specific tools or systems to monitor outcomes?
9. Ask About Follow-Up and Rehabilitation Support
Surgical technology plays a role in your recovery, but long-term outcomes also depend on rehabilitation, strength, and guided recovery.
It’s worth asking whether your surgeon coordinates rehab care or works closely with physiotherapists. This includes post-op check-ins, monitoring your range of motion, and offering access to hydrotherapy or supervised rehab, which can be helpful after robotic procedures due to their consistency in alignment and balance.
What to ask:
What kind of rehab and follow-up will I receive after surgery? Is it coordinated through your practice?
10. Understand Their Communication Style and Openness
Robotic knee surgery involves a range of decisions, from planning to rehab. You should feel included in the conversation, not sidelined.
A trusted surgeon will clearly walk you through the risks, surgical steps, and why certain technologies are used. They’ll encourage your questions and provide answers in plain language. If you feel rushed, brushed off, or confused by jargon, it’s reasonable to seek another opinion.
What to ask yourself:
Do I feel respected, heard, and supported when I speak with this surgeon?
11. Learn the Referral and Booking Pathway
To see an orthopaedic knee surgeon in Sydney, you’ll need a referral from your GP. Once referred, your surgeon will typically:
- Review your symptoms and medical history
- Request imaging (if not already done)
- Assess your eligibility for robotic-assisted surgery
- Discuss your surgical options and expected timeline
Wait times vary based on hospital availability and health insurance coverage, but private patients may access surgery more quickly.
What to ask:
What are the steps from referral to surgery in your practice? How long does the process usually take?
12. Know That Testimonials About Outcomes Are Prohibited
In Australia, it’s illegal under AHPRA regulations to publish patient testimonials that reference specific treatment results, such as how well a surgery went or how quickly someone recovered. That includes republishing Google or Facebook reviews that refer to outcomes.
Surgeons also cannot claim to be “better” or more effective than others unless supported by objective, independent evidence. Be cautious of unverified claims or marketing-style language.
What you can do:
- Ask your GP or physiotherapist for informed referrals
- Look for surgeons who explain risks and options clearly
- Focus on honest, factual, and respectful communication
13. Choosing the Right Surgeon Isn’t About Hype, It’s About Fit
Robotic technology can improve surgical precision, but it’s not a replacement for personalised care. The best outcomes come from a surgeon who:
- Explains technology without overpromising
- Involves you in surgical planning
- Has access to the right hospitals and robotic platforms
- Tailors their approach to your anatomy, goals, and needs
Ultimately, trust, communication, and clinical experience matter most. Don’t feel pressured to choose quickly. It’s okay to ask questions, seek second opinions, or take time to understand your options.
Checklist: What to Ask When Choosing a Robotic Knee Surgeon
- Are you a knee specialist or a general orthopaedic surgeon?
- Which robotic system do you use: Mako or VELYS?
- How many robotic procedures do you perform each month?
- Will I be charged extra for robotic surgery?
- What does your fee include, and what should I budget for?
- Where will the surgery take place, and is robotic access available there?
- How will you plan my procedure using robotic tools?
- What kind of follow-up and rehab is included?
- Do you assess and track outcomes after surgery?
- Do I feel comfortable asking questions and being part of the process?
If you’re exploring your options for robotic knee surgery, a consultation with Dr Jonathan Negus can help you understand what’s right for you, with clarity, care, and no added pressure.
A conversation with Dr Negus may also help you understand how technology, hospital access, and postoperative care could align with your goals — feel free to contact us to arrange a time that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get robotic knee surgery through the public system in Sydney?
Robotic-assisted knee surgery is currently more widely available in private hospitals. Access through the public system is limited and may depend on the hospital’s equipment and your surgeon’s operating rights. If you’re considering this option, your GP can help guide you based on your location, health status, and eligibility.
2. Is robotic surgery available for partial knee replacements too, or only for total replacements?
Yes, robotic-assisted surgery can be used for both total and partial knee replacements. However, not all surgeons or hospitals offer both. It’s important to confirm which type your condition may require and whether your chosen surgeon is experienced in using robotic systems for that specific procedure.
3. Do I need a new CT scan if I’m having Mako robotic knee surgery?
If your surgeon is using the Mako system, a pre-operative CT scan is required to create a 3D model of your knee. This scan helps with precise planning before the procedure. Your surgical team will guide you through when and where the scan will be arranged.
4. How do I know if I’m a good candidate for robotic knee surgery?
Suitability depends on your anatomy, joint condition, medical history, and imaging results. Some patients with complex deformities or poor bone quality may require a different approach. Dr Negus assesses all patients individually to determine whether robotic-assisted surgery is appropriate and beneficial in their case.
5. Where can I have robotic knee surgery in Sydney with both Mako and VELYS options available?
Not all hospitals offer access to both platforms. Dr Negus operates at multiple Sydney hospitals, including Norwest Private Hospital, which will offer Mako robotic total knee replacement from mid-August 2025. During consultation, you can discuss which system is most suitable for your case and where it can be performed.
6. How can I check if a knee surgeon is registered and qualified in Australia?
You can verify any surgeon’s registration status through the Ahpra public register. It lists all practitioners legally allowed to practise in Australia, including their registration type, any endorsements, and any relevant conditions. Always ensure your surgeon is listed as a Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon with current registration.
