Tonsillectomy
Tonsillectomy
Surgery to remove the tonsils, usually due to recurrent tonsillitis or obstructive sleep apnoea.
NHS Average Wait
18.0 weeks
Private Cost
£2,000-£3,500
Private Wait
1-3 weeks
Recovery Time
1-2 weeks
NHS vs Private
| Aspect | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free at point of use | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Typical Wait | 18 weeks average | 1-3 |
| 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 tonsillectomy?
The estimated average NHS waiting time for tonsillectomy is 18 weeks. Actual waits vary significantly between hospitals — check individual trust pages for current data.
How much does private tonsillectomy cost in the UK?
Private tonsillectomy costs typically range from £2,000 to £3,500. Private treatment wait is usually 1-3 weeks. Costs vary by provider and location.
Can I choose which hospital for my tonsillectomy?
Under the NHS, you have the right to choose which hospital you are referred to for your tonsillectomy. You can compare waiting times between hospitals to find the shortest wait.
Approximately 40,000 tonsillectomy procedures are performed annually in England.