Shoulder Surgery
Shoulder Arthroscopy / Decompression
Surgery to repair or decompress structures in the shoulder.
NHS Average Wait
22.0 weeks
Private Cost
£4,000-£7,000
Private Wait
2-4 weeks
Recovery Time
3-6 weeks
NHS vs Private
| Aspect | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free at point of use | £4,000-£7,000 |
| Typical Wait | 22 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 shoulder surgery?
The estimated average NHS waiting time for shoulder surgery is 22 weeks. Actual waits vary significantly between hospitals — check individual trust pages for current data.
How much does private shoulder surgery cost in the UK?
Private shoulder surgery costs typically range from £4,000 to £7,000. Private treatment wait is usually 2-4 weeks. Costs vary by provider and location.
Can I choose which hospital for my shoulder surgery?
Under the NHS, you have the right to choose which hospital you are referred to for your shoulder surgery. You can compare waiting times between hospitals to find the shortest wait.
Approximately 35,000 shoulder surgery procedures are performed annually in England.