Total Knee Replacement Cost: Knee Replacement Pricing UK vs. Abroad

Many people in the UK and Ireland are exploring private surgery or travelling abroad to access faster, more affordable care. This guide compares costs, explains what's included, and helps you understand your options.

How Much Does Knee Replacement Surgery Cost Privately?

Private knee replacement surgery in the UK can vary depending on whether you need a partial or total replacement:

 Total knee replacement: Costs typically range from £12,000 to £17,800, with an average around £15,100.
Partial knee replacement: Generally less complex and often cheaper, with prices between £9,500 and £13,500.

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What Factors Affect the Price of Knee Replacement Surgery?

The cost of knee replacement surgery - whether private or abroad - depends on a number of important variables:

Type of Surgery: Total knee replacements are more complex and typically cost more than partial knee replacements, which are less invasive and treat only part of the joint.
Hospital Location: Facilities in London and other major cities often charge significantly more than regional or smaller centres due to higher operating costs and demand.
Surgeon Experience and Reputation: Highly regarded consultants or those with specialist training may command premium fees. Some clinics allow you to choose your surgeon, which may affect price.
Choice of Implant: Different brands and materials (e.g., ceramic vs. metal, fixed vs. mobile bearing) can impact both performance and price. Custom-fitted or high-performance implants are often more expensive.
Length of Stay: More extended recovery periods in hospital, such as 3–5 nights for enhanced rehab, will increase costs compared to a standard 1–2 night stay.
Post-Operative Care: The amount and quality of rehabilitation included—such as number of physiotherapy sessions, access to hydrotherapy, or virtual follow-ups—can affect overall pricing.
Treatment Package Inclusions: Some hospitals offer comprehensive “fixed-price” packages, while others charge separately for consultations, scans, accommodation, and aftercare.
Insurance Status: If you’re uninsured or self-paying, you may be eligible for discounts—but also liable for any unexpected extras not included in your package.

What’s Included in That Cost?

Many UK private hospitals offer fixed-price packages that include:

Initial consultation
Pre-surgery tests and imaging (e.g., MRI, X-ray)
Surgery and anaesthesia
Hospital accommodation and meals
Standard physiotherapy sessions
Post-surgery reviews

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What’s Not Included in That Cost?

Some items may incur additional charges:

Specialist implants or custom prostheses
Extended physiotherapy beyond standard package
Complication-related hospital stays
Travel and accommodation for family
Long-term rehabilitation

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How Much Does Knee Replacement Surgery Cost Without Insurance?

According to Bupa UK, the average cost of a knee replacement without health insurance is £14,545. However, this depends on your chosen provider, hospital location, and whether it’s a partial or total procedure.

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Can You Get Knee Replacement Surgery on the NHS for Free?

Yes, knee replacement surgery is available through the NHS at no direct cost. However, patients can wait 6 to 18 months or more depending on local demand. Eligibility is based on clinical need, and delays may affect quality of life.

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Saving with Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

Travelling abroad can reduce the cost of treatment by up to 70%, with prices starting from £4,000 including surgery, hospital stay, physiotherapy, and airport transfers. Thera Travel works with accredited orthopaedic clinics across Europe to provide safe, affordable knee replacement surgery abroad with short wait times and transparent pricing.

Learn more about knee replacement surgery abroad.

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