Orthopaedics

Shoulder Replacement Surgery Abroad

If you're facing long NHS wait times or have been told your condition isn’t severe enough to qualify for surgery just yet, you're not alone. Many people living with shoulder pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility are left without timely treatment. Shoulder replacement surgery abroad offers a trusted alternative, with faster access, lower costs, and expert care supported throughout by Thera Travel.
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Thera Travel Doctors
4.2

Star Reviews

Better Care Than the NHS, at Half the Price
I travelled to Kraków for a total knee replacement after waiting 18 months on the NHS list. The clinic was spotless, the staff all spoke excellent English, and the surgeon was clearly experienced. I was walking with a frame by day two. The physiotherapy was more intensive than I expected, which helped with recovery. Including travel and hotel, it still cost less than going private in the UK. Highly recommended.
David R. (Manchester)
Country Visited: Poland
Hip Replacement in Riga – No Regrets
After doing quite a bit of research, I booked a hip replacement in Riga. The hospital looked more like a hotel, and the nursing care was exceptional. I had a private room with a view over the river. Communication was good throughout, with a coordinator who handled airport transfers and appointments. It's now three months later and I’m back to gardening. Would choose Latvia again over private UK care.
Sandra T. (London)
Country Visited: Latvia
Professional, Efficient, and No Hidden Costs
Had my right knee replaced in Warsaw after a friend recommended the clinic. Everything was as described—pre-surgery scans, consultation, surgery, and rehab—all done in under two weeks. No upselling, no unexpected fees. I appreciated how transparent the pricing was compared to some UK providers. Very impressed.
Michael B. (Glasgow)
Country Visited: Poland
Quick Recovery and Excellent Follow-Up
I was nervous about travelling for surgery, but my experience in Latvia was reassuring from start to finish. The surgeon explained everything clearly, and the physiotherapy team worked with me daily. I even had video follow-ups after returning to the UK. I’m walking unaided now, which I hadn’t done properly in over a year. Thank you to the whole team in Riga.
Carolyn M. (Leeds)
Country Visited: Latvia
Superior to My Local NHS Hospital
Opted for hip replacement in Gdańsk due to the NHS backlog. What struck me most was the attention to detail and the level of care. From airport pickup to post-op physiotherapy, everything ran smoothly. They even arranged a companion room for my wife. I had less swelling than after my previous surgery in the UK. Would definitely go abroad again if needed.
James E. (Birmingham)
Country Visited: Poland

Why Choose

Shoulder Replacement Surgery Abroad

Travelling abroad for shoulder replacement can give you faster relief and greater control over your care. Here’s why more patients are making the move:

Swift Scheduling

No NHS delays, treatment arranged in as little as 2 to 4 weeks

Save up to 65 %

Lower cost than UK private hospitals (from £4,500 to £6,500)

EU-Regulated Quality

EU-accredited clinics with experienced orthopaedic specialists

Trusted Surgeons

English-speaking staff, private rooms, and attentive nursing care

All-Inclusive Care

All-inclusive service: consultation, flights, transfers, hotel, surgery, aftercare

What happens during

Shoulder Replacement Surgery Abroad

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1
2
3
4
5
01

Anaesthesia

Surgery is done under general or regional anaesthetic

02

Joint Replacement

The damaged shoulder joint is removed and replaced with a prosthetic implant. This may be a total shoulder replacement or a reverse shoulder replacement depending on your condition.

03

Implants

Most shoulder replacement implants are made from high-quality titanium and polyethylene for long-term durability

04

Duration

The operation usually takes between 1.5 to 2 hours

05

Hospital Stay

Patients stay in a private clinic for 2 to 4 nights with post-op support and early physiotherapy

Your surgeon will guide you through which type of replacement is right for your needs.

Thera Travel ensures your experience is safe, stress-free and tailored around your needs.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery Cost Comparison: UK vs Europe

Country
Average Price (GBP)
Average Savings vs UK (%)
UK
£12,349
0%
Latvia
£5,557
55.0%
Hungary
£7,165
42.0%
Lithuania
£3,416
72.3%
Poland
£3,755
69.6%


What Recovery Looks Like After Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Recovery from shoulder replacement is gradual, but most patients feel a steady return to mobility and quality of life:

  • Week 1 to 2: Pain management, rest, swelling control. Gentle passive movement begins with physiotherapy support
  • Week 3 to 6: Begin guided exercises to improve mobility and shoulder function

  • Week 6 to 12: Build strength, continue range-of-motion work, return to light daily activities

  • 3 to 6 Months: Resume driving, part-time work, and low-impact hobbies

  • 6 to 12 Months: Most patients achieve full function for everyday activities and independence

Thera Travel’s partners offer remote follow-ups and virtual physiotherapy support, so you’re never without guidance.

Where Will I Go?

We work with specialist shoulder surgery clinics in:

Kaunas, Lithuania

  • Direct flights from most UK airports
  • Modern orthopaedic centre with English-speaking staff

Wroclaw, Poland

  • High surgical volumes and advanced post-op rehab facilities

Prague, Czech Republic

  • Popular destination for joint replacements with short waiting times

Is Shoulder Replacement Surgery Overseas Safe?

Yes, having shoulder replacement surgery overseas can be safe when performed in accredited medical centres with experienced teams. Many European clinics maintain international health and safety certifications, and often offer shorter waiting times, which can support better recovery outcomes.

Thera Travel works exclusively with trusted hospitals that meet strict EU medical standards. These include ISO and JCI-accredited facilities, orthopaedic surgeons with extensive experience in shoulder procedures, and English-speaking staff. All care is arranged in advance, with private recovery rooms and one-to-one support throughout.

Why patients feel safer abroad:

  • Smaller clinic caseloads mean more attention and time
  • Shorter wait leads to faster recovery and fewer complications
  • All logistics and support handled for you by our UK team

How to Book Shoulder Replacement Surgery Abroad

Booking is straightforward and fully supported by our team:

  1. Get a free consultation with Thera Travel's orthopaedic specialists
  2. Receive a personalised quote and recommended clinics
  3. Choose your preferred travel dates
  4. We arrange flights, accommodation, surgery, and transport
  5. Access post-surgery care including remote physiotherapy support

Get your free quote and treatment plan today.

“From the first inquiry to flying home, the support was exceptional.”
“Clean, efficient, friendly. I wish I’d gone abroad sooner.”
“Top-class care for half the price of UK surgery.”
“From the moment I landed, an English-speaking nurse met me at arrivals, and I had my first physio session within 24 hours of surgery. I never felt rushed - just cared for.”

– Mark L.

29-year-old five-a-side footballer
(ACL reconstruction, Poland)
“Before I travelled to Latvia for my knee surgery, I was hesitant. But honestly, it felt more like checking into a hotel than a hospital. My room was private and spotless, with a big window and meals brought in three times a day. It was quiet, calm, and the staff couldn’t have been more attentive. That level of comfort helped me recover quickly, and I never felt rushed out the door.”
“Is it safe?”“I had the same question. But after speaking with my care coordinator and reading about the clinic’s certifications, I felt reassured. The hospital in Poland was modern and far cleaner than the NHS ward I’d visited previously. My surgeon explained everything clearly, and all the nurses spoke fluent English. By the time I left, I felt I’d received care that matched,or exceeded,what I could have had in the UK.”
“Before going to Latvia for my hip replacement, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But it honestly felt more like staying at a hotel. My private room was spotless, meals were delivered to my bedside, and everything was calm and well-organised. The attention to comfort made a real difference in my recovery.”
“Is it safe?” “I wondered the same. But after reviewing the clinic’s credentials and talking to the coordinator, I was confident. The hospital in Poland was cleaner and more modern than the NHS ward I’d seen. My surgeon took time to explain every step, and the nursing staff spoke fluent English. By the end of my stay, I felt fully informed and very well looked after.”
(Former patients provide more stories on our Trustpilot page.)

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⁠Is Orthopaedic treatment abroad safe?

Better Care Than the NHS, at Half the Price
I travelled to Kraków for a total knee replacement after waiting 18 months on the NHS list. The clinic was spotless, the staff all spoke excellent English, and the surgeon was clearly experienced. I was walking with a frame by day two. The physiotherapy was more intensive than I expected, which helped with recovery. Including travel and hotel, it still cost less than going private in the UK. Highly recommended.
David R. (Manchester)
Country Visited:Poland
Hip Replacement in Riga – No Regrets
After doing quite a bit of research, I booked a hip replacement in Riga. The hospital looked more like a hotel, and the nursing care was exceptional. I had a private room with a view over the river. Communication was good throughout, with a coordinator who handled airport transfers and appointments. It's now three months later and I’m back to gardening. Would choose Latvia again over private UK care.
Sandra T. (London)
Country Visited:Latvia
Professional, Efficient, and No Hidden Costs
Had my right knee replaced in Warsaw after a friend recommended the clinic. Everything was as described—pre-surgery scans, consultation, surgery, and rehab—all done in under two weeks. No upselling, no unexpected fees. I appreciated how transparent the pricing was compared to some UK providers. Very impressed.
Michael B. (Glasgow)
Country Visited:Poland
Quick Recovery and Excellent Follow-Up
I was nervous about travelling for surgery, but my experience in Latvia was reassuring from start to finish. The surgeon explained everything clearly, and the physiotherapy team worked with me daily. I even had video follow-ups after returning to the UK. I’m walking unaided now, which I hadn’t done properly in over a year. Thank you to the whole team in Riga.
Carolyn M. (Leeds)
Country Visited:Latvia
Superior to My Local NHS Hospital
Opted for hip replacement in Gdańsk due to the NHS backlog. What struck me most was the attention to detail and the level of care. From airport pickup to post-op physiotherapy, everything ran smoothly. They even arranged a companion room for my wife. I had less swelling than after my previous surgery in the UK. Would definitely go abroad again if needed.
James E. (Birmingham)
Country Visited:Poland

Our Orthopaedic Treatments

Blog Thumnails Thera Travel

Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

Hip pain and limited mobility can severely impact daily life, making simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting a struggle. For those suffering from arthritis, injuries, or joint problems, the pain can feel relentless. But there's good news—hip replacement surgery offers a solution.
Blog Thumnails Thera Travel

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Abroad

Arthroscopic (or keyhole) knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pain, stiffness, or limited mobility caused by issues like torn cartilage, ligament damage, or loose bone fragments inside the joint. With Thera Travel, you can skip NHS waiting lists and access fast, expert care at leading European clinics - featuring modern facilities, English-speaking specialists, and treatment that meets strict international standards. All at significantly lower cost than in the UK, with full support from consultation to recovery.
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Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

Living with knee pain can make everyday tasks exhausting - from walking up stairs to getting out of bed in the morning. If you're facing long NHS wait times or have been told to wait months for surgery, you're not alone. Many in the UK and Ireland are in the same position: in pain, with no clear timeline for relief.
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High Tibial Osteotomy Surgery Abroad

Living with persistent knee pain due to arthritis or joint misalignment can make everyday life frustrating. For many in the UK, the wait to get high tibial osteotomy (HTO) surgery on the NHS stretches into months, sometimes longer. HTO surgery is a joint-preserving procedure that realigns the knee to reduce pressure on the damaged area, easing pain and delaying or avoiding a full knee replacement. If you're waiting too long or facing high private costs, Thera Travel offers a trusted way forward.
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ACL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad

Waiting months - sometimes longer - for knee surgery can feel unbearable when every step, twist, or unexpected wobble reminds you that your joint isn’t stable. UK waiting-list backlogs mean many active people are left sidelined, anxious about worsening cartilage damage and the risk of arthritis down the line. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a precision procedure that replaces the torn ligament - usually with a small tendon graft from your hamstring or patella - so the knee can regain full stability and range of motion.
Blog Thumnails Thera Travel

Hip Arthroscopy Surgery Abroad

If you've been told your hip pain will "settle over time" or you've been left waiting with only exercises and no progress, you're not alone. Many NHS patients face long delays and limited options, even when dealing with clear joint damage like impingement or labral tears.
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Femoral Osteotomy Surgery Abroad

Femoral osteotomy is a specialised orthopaedic procedure designed to realign the femur and improve joint function, most often performed in cases of hip dysplasia, leg length discrepancies, or abnormal joint loading. If you’ve been advised this surgery but are facing long NHS wait times, you’re not alone. Many patients are left in limbo, unsure when relief will come. That’s where Thera Travel steps in.
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PCL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn ligament at the back of the knee. If you’re facing long NHS delays or struggling with knee instability, Thera Travel offers a faster, trusted solution. We arrange PCL reconstruction surgery abroad with top-tier orthopaedic clinics, giving you rapid access to expert care at a more affordable price.
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Ankle Replacement Surgery Abroad

If you're living with ankle pain and limited mobility but facing long NHS delays or high UK private fees, ankle replacement surgery abroad could be the right choice. With Thera Travel, you get fast access to expert surgeons, transparent costs, and full travel and rehab support from start to finish.
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Ankle Fusion Surgery Abroad

Looking to avoid long NHS delays for ankle surgery? Ankle fusion surgery abroad offers faster access, lower costs, and full travel and rehab support. Thera Travel connects you with trusted European clinics for expert ankle care you can count on.
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Bunion Surgery Abroad

If you're living with the discomfort of a bunion and facing long NHS delays or high private fees, bunion surgery abroad could be a welcome option. Thera Travel offers access to trusted European clinics with shorter waiting times, lower costs, and complete travel and care coordination.
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Spinal Fusion Surgery Abroad

Speak directly to patients who’ve been told they may need spinal fusion but are stuck waiting on NHS lists or can’t afford private surgery. Briefly explain what spinal fusion is: stabilising the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae, often due to degenerative disc disease or instability. Introduce Thera Travel: we connect UK/Ireland patients with top-rated European spine centres, arranging everything from medical records to rehab.
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MCL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad

If you’ve been told your MCL will "heal on its own" but you're still dealing with knee pain or instability, you're not alone. Many people in the UK face long NHS waits or limited treatment options for ligament injuries. MCL reconstruction abroad offers a fast, affordable, and high-quality alternative. With Thera Travel, you get fast access to leading orthopaedic surgeons in trusted European clinics. We handle everything from your medical records and flights to rehab and follow-up, so you can focus on getting back to the activities you love.