UK Private Surgery Price List 2025
WeCovr's flagship guide to the average costs of 20–30 common private procedures, from hip replacements to cataract surgery
Welcome to the definitive guide on private surgery costs in the UK. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we understand that navigating healthcare choices can be daunting. This guide provides clarity on what you can expect to pay for private treatment, helping you decide whether to self-fund or secure a private medical insurance policy.
With NHS waiting lists remaining a significant concern for many, turning to the private sector for prompt, high-quality care is an increasingly popular option. But what does it actually cost? Let's break it down.
Why are Britons Choosing Private Surgery?
While the NHS is a national treasure, it is currently facing unprecedented pressure. According to recent NHS England data, the number of people waiting for routine hospital treatment remains in the millions. This has led many to seek alternatives for faster access to care.
The key benefits of choosing private surgery include:
- Speed of Access: This is the primary driver. You can often schedule a consultation within days and surgery within weeks, bypassing lengthy NHS queues.
- Choice and Control: You can choose your consultant surgeon and the hospital where you'll be treated.
- Comfort and Privacy: Treatment typically includes a private, en-suite room, more flexible visiting hours, and often a better food menu.
- Convenience: Appointments and surgery dates can be scheduled around your work and family commitments.
Understanding the Components of a Private Surgery Bill
When you see a 'package price' for a private operation, it’s not just for the surgeon's time. The total cost is a bundle of several different services. Understanding this helps you see where the money goes.
A typical all-inclusive or 'package' price usually covers:
- Consultant and Anaesthetist Fees: The fees for the specialist surgical team.
- Hospital Costs: This includes the use of the operating theatre, nursing care, and your private room for the required stay.
- Pre-operative Tests: Any essential diagnostic tests like blood work or scans needed just before your operation.
- Medication and Dressings: All standard medications, and dressings used during and immediately after your hospital stay.
- Standard Prosthetics/Implants: The cost of a standard artificial joint for a hip or knee replacement, for example.
- Post-operative Care: This may include a set number of follow-up consultations and physiotherapy sessions.
What's often not included in the initial package?
- The initial consultation with the specialist (can cost £200 - £400).
- Diagnostic tests required to reach a diagnosis before the decision to operate is made (e.g., an initial MRI scan).
- Treatment for any complications that fall outside the hospital's fixed-price guarantee.
UK Private Surgery Price List 2025: Average Costs
Here are the estimated average costs for common private surgical and diagnostic procedures in the UK for 2025.
These are guide prices and can vary significantly based on the hospital, the surgeon, and your specific medical needs. Costs in London and the South East are typically 15-25% higher than in other parts of the country.
Orthopaedic and Musculoskeletal Surgery
This is one of the most common areas for private treatment, helping people regain mobility and live pain-free.
| Procedure | Average UK Cost Range (2025) | What it Involves |
|---|---|---|
| Total Hip Replacement | £13,500 – £17,000 | Replacing the hip joint with a prosthetic implant to relieve arthritis pain. |
| Total Knee Replacement | £14,000 – £18,000 | Resurfacing a knee damaged by arthritis with an artificial joint. |
| Knee Arthroscopy | £4,500 – £6,500 | Keyhole surgery to diagnose and treat problems inside the knee joint. |
| ACL Reconstruction | £7,000 – £9,500 | Rebuilding the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee after a tear. |
| Carpal Tunnel Release | £2,000 – £3,000 | Surgery to relieve pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. |
| Bunion Surgery | £5,000 – £7,000 | Correcting a bony lump (bunion) on the side of the big toe. |
General Surgery
This covers a wide range of common procedures, often related to the abdomen.
| Procedure | Average UK Cost Range (2025) | What it Involves |
|---|---|---|
| Inguinal Hernia Repair | £3,500 – £5,000 | Repairing a weakness in the abdominal wall, often with a synthetic mesh. |
| Gallbladder Removal | £6,500 – £8,500 | Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). |
| Haemorrhoidectomy | £3,000 – £4,500 | Surgical removal of haemorrhoids (piles). |
| Colonoscopy | £2,000 – £2,800 | A diagnostic procedure to examine the inside of the large intestine. |
| Gastroscopy | £1,700 – £2,500 | A diagnostic procedure to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. |
Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Surgery
From improving vision to resolving breathing issues, these procedures can dramatically improve quality of life.
| Procedure | Average UK Cost Range (2025) | What it Involves |
|---|---|---|
| Cataract Surgery (per eye) | £2,800 – £4,000 | Replacing the eye's cloudy lens with a clear artificial one. |
| Tonsillectomy (Adult) | £3,500 – £4,500 | Surgical removal of the tonsils, often for recurrent tonsillitis. |
| Septoplasty | £4,500 – £6,000 | Correcting a deviated septum to improve breathing through the nose. |
| Adenoidectomy (Child) | £3,000 – £4,000 | Removal of the adenoids, typically to treat breathing or ear problems. |
Gynaecology and Urology
Specialist procedures for men's and women's health.
| Procedure | Average UK Cost Range (2025) | What it Involves |
|---|---|---|
| Hysterectomy | £8,000 – £12,000 | Surgical removal of the uterus, for conditions like fibroids or endometriosis. |
| Laparoscopy (Gynae) | £4,000 – £7,000 | Keyhole surgery to diagnose or treat conditions like endometriosis. |
| Prostate Biopsy (TRUS) | £2,500 – £3,500 | Taking small tissue samples from the prostate to test for cancer. |
| Prostate Resection (TURP) | £6,500 – £8,500 | Surgery to treat an enlarged prostate that causes urinary problems. |
| Vasectomy | £800 – £1,500 | A simple surgical procedure for male sterilisation. |
| Circumcision (Adult) | £2,000 – £3,000 | Surgical removal of the foreskin for medical or religious reasons. |
Key Diagnostic Scans
These are often the first step in getting a diagnosis before surgery is considered.
| Procedure | Average UK Cost Range (2025) | What it Involves |
|---|---|---|
| MRI Scan (1 Part) | £400 – £750 | Uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of organs/tissues. |
| CT Scan (1 Part) | £550 – £900 | Uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images. |
| Ultrasound Scan | £300 – £500 | Uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of inside the body. |
Self-Funding vs. Private Medical Insurance: Making the Right Choice
Seeing the price list above, you have two main ways to pay for treatment: self-funding or using a private health insurance policy.
1. Self-Funding
This means paying for your treatment directly out of your own pocket.
- Pros: It’s straightforward. If you have the savings, you can book treatment immediately without worrying about policy terms or waiting periods.
- Cons: The costs are high and can be prohibitive for many. More importantly, if unexpected complications arise, the final bill could be significantly higher than the initial quote. A second operation or a longer hospital stay could add thousands to the cost.
2. Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
This involves paying a monthly or annual premium to an insurer, who then covers the cost of eligible treatment.
- Pros: It provides peace of mind and protection against unpredictable medical bills. For a manageable monthly fee, you gain access to a wide range of treatments and hospitals.
- Cons: You need to pay premiums even when you're healthy. Policies come with an excess (an amount you pay towards a claim), and there may be limits on cover.
The Most Important Rule: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions
This is a critical point to understand about private medical insurance UK. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions that begin after your policy starts.
- Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a cataract, a hernia, a torn ligament). PMI covers these.
- Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and often has no known cure. It can be managed but not fixed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, Crohn's disease). PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.
- Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before your policy began (usually the last 5 years). These are typically excluded from cover, at least initially.
An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can explain these rules in detail and help you understand how different types of underwriting (e.g., moratorium vs. full medical underwriting) might affect you.
How WeCovr Makes Private Healthcare Simple and Affordable
Navigating the world of private health cover can feel complex, but it doesn't have to be. As an independent and FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr acts as your expert guide.
Our service is designed to help you:
- Understand Your Needs: We take the time to listen to what's important to you—whether it's comprehensive cancer cover, mental health support, or access to specific hospitals.
- Compare the Market: We use our expertise and technology to compare policies from the UK's leading insurers, finding the best PMI provider for your circumstances and budget.
- Get the Best Value: Our service is completely free to you. We can often find policies with better terms or lower prices than going directly to an insurer.
- Enjoy Extra Benefits: When you arrange a policy through us, you'll also get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support your wellness goals. Plus, our clients often receive discounts on other insurance products, like life or income protection.
Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings because we prioritise clear, honest advice and exceptional service.
A Proactive Approach: Wellness Tips to Keep You Out of the Operating Theatre
While insurance is there for when things go wrong, the best strategy is to stay healthy. Investing in your well-being can reduce your risk of needing surgery in the first place.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts significant strain on your joints (hips, knees) and increases the risk of conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. A balanced diet, rich in whole foods, is key.
- Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, as recommended by the NHS. A mix of cardio (brisk walking, cycling) and strength training helps maintain muscle mass and bone density.
- Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep can impact your immune system, hormone regulation, and mental health.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress contributes to inflammation and a host of health problems. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or spend time in nature to keep stress levels in check.
- Don't Ignore Niggles: If you have persistent joint pain or other symptoms, see a GP or physiotherapist early. Addressing issues before they become severe can sometimes prevent the need for surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does private medical insurance cost in the UK?
The cost of private medical insurance in the UK varies widely based on age, location, level of cover, and lifestyle factors like smoking. A basic policy for a healthy 30-year-old might start from £40 per month, while a comprehensive policy for a 50-year-old could be £90 or more. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote that reflects your specific needs.
Can I get private health insurance if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
Generally, standard private health cover excludes pre-existing conditions. However, under 'moratorium' underwriting, if you remain symptom-free and require no treatment, advice, or medication for that condition for a set period (usually two years after your policy starts), the insurer may agree to cover it in the future. It's crucial to discuss your medical history with an expert broker like WeCovr to understand your options.
Does private medical insurance cover cancer treatment?
Yes, cancer cover is a core component of most private medical insurance policies in the UK. A comprehensive policy will typically cover the costs of diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and access to specialist drugs and treatments that may not be available on the NHS. The level of cover can vary, so it's important to check the policy details.
What is a policy 'excess' and how does it work?
An excess is a fixed amount of money you agree to pay towards the cost of your treatment when you make a claim. For example, if your excess is £250 and your eligible treatment costs £5,000, you would pay the first £250 and your insurer would pay the remaining £4,750. Choosing a higher excess is a common way to reduce your monthly premium.
Ready to take control of your health? The expert team at WeCovr is here to provide clarity and find the right private health cover for you.
Get your FREE, no-obligation private medical insurance quote today and secure your peace of mind.
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?
Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.
By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!
We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
How It Works
1. Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Any questions?
Learn more
Who Are WeCovr?
WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.
Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!