Alejandro Cortes, M.D.

Dr. Alejandro Cortes is a fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee arthritis. His philosophy has always been to learn from the best and deliver the highest level of care to his patients. He studied medicine at Harvard Medical School, completed his orthopedic surgery residency at UCSF–St. Mary’s, and pursued advanced fellowship training in hip and knee replacements at UC San Diego.

While many orthopedic surgeons perform joint replacements, only a small number dedicate additional years to train exclusively in complex hip and knee replacements. Dr. Cortes chose that path to ensure his patients receive the most comprehensive, specialized care possible.

Returning Home

Born in Spain, Dr. Cortes developed discipline and focus early in life as a recruit for the professional F.C. Barcelona Youth Soccer Academy. After his family moved to Folsom at age 12, he continued his athletic drive as a Folsom High School Bulldog, competing in soccer, football, and track. Though his medical training took him across the country, his dream was always to return home to Folsom with his family. Today, he is proud to care for the same community that shaped him.

Core Values and Approach to Care

Dr. Cortes is committed to helping patients restore mobility, relieve pain, and return to the activities that matter most - whether that means playing with grandchildren, traveling, returning to sports, or simply walking without discomfort.

He partners with each patient across the spectrum of care, from nonoperative options like medications, injections, and physical therapy, to advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques when surgery is the best path forward. He believes that joint replacement is about more than surgery - it is about giving patients back their independence and quality of life.

His passion for arthroplasty comes from witnessing the profound transformation it brings to patients’ lives. As arthritis progresses, people’s worlds shrink - they walk less, miss family events, and find travel burdensome. Joint replacement reopens those possibilities, lifting limitations and restoring independence. Helping patients reclaim their lives in this way is a privilege he deeply values.

He believes arthroplasty is never one-size-fits-all. Dr. Cortes takes pride in tailoring his treatments since each patient’s unique circumstances, values, and goals matter. Dr. Cortes understands that facing surgery can feel overwhelming, and that it’s natural to have concerns or fears. His role is not only to provide skilled surgical care, but also to listen, guide, and support patients every step of the way. He will work with you through questions and worries so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind. Patients often describe him as approachable, caring, a great listener, and sincere.

Surgical Experience and Expertise

Dr. Cortes has performed hundreds of hip and knee surgeries - ranging from routine joint replacements to complex revision (“re-do”) surgeries. His expertise extends beyond the operating room: he has published NIH-funded research in orthopedics and presented at national orthopedic meetings. He is committed to continuous learning, and makes it a priority to stay current on the latest techniques, implant designs, and technologies (such as robotics, computer navigation, and patient specific designs). His goal is simple: combine proven experience with continuous learning, so every patient receives the safest, most effective care possible.

Beyond Medicine

When not in the operating room, Dr. Cortes enjoys spending time with his wife (high school sweetheart) and daughters, staying active, and giving back to the Folsom community.