Knee Replacement
Total Knee Arthroplasty
Surgery to replace a worn-out knee joint with an artificial one.
NHS Average Wait
30.0 weeks
Private Cost
£9,000-£13,500
Private Wait
2-4 weeks
Recovery Time
6-12 weeks
NHS vs Private
| Aspect | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free at point of use | £9,000-£13,500 |
| Typical Wait | 30 weeks average | 2-4 |
| Choice of Surgeon | Limited | Full choice |
| Choice of Date | Allocated | You choose |
| Private Room | Shared ward | Private room included |
| Follow-up Care | Included | Included |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the NHS wait for knee replacement?
The estimated average NHS waiting time for knee replacement is 30 weeks. Actual waits vary significantly between hospitals — check individual trust pages for current data.
How much does private knee replacement cost in the UK?
Private knee replacement costs typically range from £9,000 to £13,500. Private treatment wait is usually 2-4 weeks. Costs vary by provider and location.
Can I choose which hospital for my knee replacement?
Under the NHS, you have the right to choose which hospital you are referred to for your knee replacement. You can compare waiting times between hospitals to find the shortest wait.
Approximately 85,000 knee replacement procedures are performed annually in England.