A private knee replacement in the UK commonly costs approximately £12,000 to £18,000. Some fixed-price packages begin at around £10,000, while treatment at a major private hospital or surgery involving specialist technology can exceed £20,000.
A partial knee replacement may cost around £10,000 to £15,000. Revision surgery to replace or repair an existing knee implant is more complex and may cost £18,000 to £30,000 or more.
| Private knee service | Typical UK cost |
|---|---|
| Initial orthopaedic consultation | £180–£350 |
| Follow-up consultation | £120–£250 |
| Knee X-ray | £100–£250 |
| Knee MRI | £300–£700 |
| Total knee replacement | £12,000–£18,000+ |
| Partial knee replacement | £10,000–£15,000+ |
| Robotic-assisted knee replacement | £15,000–£22,000+ |
| Revision knee replacement | £18,000–£30,000+ |
| Private physiotherapy | £50–£100 per session |
These figures are broad self-pay estimates rather than fixed national prices. A hospital should provide a personalised quotation after the surgeon has assessed the knee, reviewed appropriate imaging and confirmed the proposed operation.
The lowest price is not necessarily the lowest total cost. Check whether consultations, imaging, the implant, anaesthesia, hospital care, physiotherapy and treatment of complications are included.
What is a knee replacement?
Knee replacement surgery removes damaged joint surfaces and replaces them with artificial components. The implants are usually made from metal and durable plastic and are designed to restore smoother movement between the thigh bone, shin bone and, where appropriate, the kneecap.
Surgery is most commonly performed for severe osteoarthritis. Other reasons can include:
- rheumatoid arthritis;
- post-traumatic arthritis following an injury;
- osteonecrosis, where part of the bone loses its blood supply;
- significant deformity;
- failure of a previous knee replacement.
A replacement may be considered when pain, stiffness and loss of function substantially affect daily life and non-surgical treatment no longer provides adequate relief.
Symptoms leading to assessment may include:
- persistent pain while walking or using stairs;
- pain at rest or during the night;
- difficulty standing from a chair;
- reduced walking distance;
- knee stiffness or instability;
- swelling;
- a bowed or knock-kneed appearance;
- loss of independence.
Our guide to knee-pain causes, diagnosis and treatment explains other reasons for knee symptoms and the available treatment options.
How much does a total knee replacement cost?
A private total knee replacement commonly costs between £12,000 and £18,000. Published hospital prices vary by region, with some providers offering lower-cost packages and others charging more than £20,000.
For example, published prices in 2026 include packages beginning at approximately £13,800 at one national treatment provider, while another major hospital group publishes an average guide price of around £16,900.
These examples should not be treated as quotations. Prices change, and the amount displayed online may exclude the first consultation, investigations or treatment required because of another medical condition.
A total knee replacement resurfaces the main joint compartments. It does not necessarily mean that every structure inside the knee is removed. The surgeon selects the implant and technique according to the anatomy, ligament function, deformity and bone quality.
The price may increase when:
- the procedure is technically complex;
- specialist implants or additional components are needed;
- the patient has significant medical conditions;
- a longer hospital stay is anticipated;
- robotic or computer-assisted technology is used;
- the hospital is in London or another high-cost area;
- extra rehabilitation is required.
How much does a partial knee replacement cost?
A private partial knee replacement commonly costs approximately £10,000 to £15,000. It is not always substantially cheaper than a total replacement because many of the hospital, theatre, anaesthetic and surgical costs are similar.
A partial replacement, also called a unicompartmental knee replacement, treats only the damaged part of the joint. It may be suitable when arthritis is confined to one compartment and the ligaments and remaining joint surfaces are in an appropriate condition.
Potential advantages for a suitable patient can include:
- a smaller operation;
- less removal of bone and soft tissue;
- a shorter hospital stay;
- faster early recovery;
- movement that may feel more natural.
It is not appropriate simply because someone wants a less expensive procedure. Arthritis affecting multiple compartments, major deformity or ligament problems may make a total replacement more suitable.
NICE states that adults with isolated medial-compartment osteoarthritis who are suitable for knee replacement should be offered a choice between partial and total replacement. The surgeon should discuss the advantages, disadvantages and likely need for further surgery.
What does robotic knee replacement cost?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement commonly costs around £15,000 to £22,000 or more. In some hospitals, robotic technology is included within the standard package. Others charge an additional fee.
During robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon uses computer planning and a robotic system to help prepare the bone and position the implant. The robot does not perform the operation independently.
Potential benefits may include more detailed planning and accurate execution of the intended implant position. However, robotic assistance does not:
- remove the risks of surgery;
- guarantee a painless knee;
- make every implant last longer;
- replace the skill and judgement of the surgeon;
- mean that surgery is necessary sooner.
Ask what evidence supports using the system for your particular knee and whether the surgeon performs both conventional and robotic procedures. The technology should be selected for a clinical reason rather than because it creates a more expensive package.
What should a fixed-price package include?
A comprehensive private knee-replacement package may include:
- pre-operative assessment;
- the surgeon’s fee;
- the anaesthetist’s fee;
- the knee implant;
- operating-theatre charges;
- medicines, dressings and routine medical supplies;
- nursing care;
- a standard hospital stay;
- routine post-operative X-rays;
- mobility aids used during admission;
- initial inpatient physiotherapy;
- one or more surgical follow-up appointments;
- a specified period of aftercare.
The initial consultation and diagnostic imaging are frequently excluded because the hospital cannot confirm that a replacement is appropriate until the assessment is complete.
Ask for a written quotation that explains:
- which implant is included;
- how many hospital nights are covered;
- what happens if you need to stay longer;
- whether take-home medicines are included;
- how much physiotherapy is provided;
- how long routine follow-up continues;
- which complications are covered;
- what circumstances could increase the price.
Do not rely solely on the phrase “all-inclusive.” Its meaning differs between hospitals.
What costs may be charged separately?
Orthopaedic consultations
An initial private orthopaedic consultation commonly costs around £180 to £350. Follow-up appointments are often £120 to £250.
Our guide to private orthopaedic consultation costs explains typical fees for appointments, scans and injections.
Imaging
Weight-bearing X-rays are commonly used to assess knee arthritis and alignment. An X-ray may cost £100 to £250 privately.
An MRI scan may cost approximately £300 to £700. It is not necessary before every knee replacement because X-rays and clinical assessment can provide much of the required information. An MRI may be useful when the diagnosis is uncertain or a partial replacement is being considered.
Pre-operative tests
The assessment may include:
- blood tests;
- an ECG;
- urine testing;
- screening for infection;
- anaesthetic assessment;
- additional heart or lung investigations.
Basic pre-operative testing is often included after surgery is booked, but specialist investigations may be charged separately.
Physiotherapy
Inpatient physiotherapy and basic discharge exercises are normally included. Outpatient rehabilitation may not be.
Private physiotherapy commonly costs £50 to £100 per session. A course of six appointments could therefore add £300 to £600, while home visits and specialist rehabilitation may cost more.
See our guide to private physiotherapy costs in the UK for a wider breakdown.
Equipment and home support
You may need to budget for:
- crutches or a walking frame if not provided;
- a raised toilet seat;
- temporary help with shopping and household tasks;
- transport to appointments;
- private nursing or care at home;
- time away from paid work.
Additional hospital nights
A package may cover only a predetermined stay. If a medical problem delays discharge, extra accommodation, nursing and medical fees could arise unless the package includes protection against complications.
Ask how the hospital handles an unexpected transfer to an NHS intensive-care or specialist service and whether any private fees remain payable.
What happens before surgery?
The surgeon should first confirm that knee replacement is likely to improve the symptoms. Severe pain does not automatically mean that an operation is the best option.
The assessment typically covers:
- where the pain is located;
- how symptoms affect walking, sleep and daily activities;
- knee movement, stability and alignment;
- X-ray findings;
- previous injuries and operations;
- treatments already tried;
- medical conditions and medicines;
- weight, smoking and infection risk;
- the patient’s goals and expectations.
Non-surgical treatment may include:
- tailored exercise and physiotherapy;
- weight management where appropriate;
- pain-relieving medicines;
- topical anti-inflammatory treatment;
- walking aids;
- activity modification;
- selected joint injections.
A replacement is usually considered when these measures no longer provide acceptable function or relief. NICE’s guidance on osteoarthritis assessment and management explains the broader treatment approach.
NHS England also provides a decision-support tool for knee osteoarthritis to help patients compare their options.
What happens during and after the operation?
Knee replacement is performed under a spinal or general anaesthetic, sometimes with additional nerve blocks for pain relief. The operation commonly takes around one to two hours, although preparation and recovery add to the total time in theatre.
After surgery, the team will encourage movement and provide pain relief and measures to reduce the risk of blood clots. Physiotherapy usually begins in hospital.
Most people leave hospital within approximately one to four days when:
- the wound and general condition are satisfactory;
- pain can be managed with tablets;
- they can walk safely with appropriate support;
- they can manage steps or stairs where necessary;
- a suitable discharge plan is in place.
Recovery continues for several months. Swelling, stiffness, disturbed sleep and the need for pain relief are common during the early stages.
The NHS guide to recovering from knee replacement explains the usual hospital discharge and rehabilitation process.
What are the risks?
Knee replacement can produce substantial pain relief and improved mobility, but it cannot guarantee a completely painless or normally functioning knee.
Possible complications include:
- wound infection or deep infection around the implant;
- deep-vein thrombosis;
- pulmonary embolism;
- bleeding or the need for transfusion;
- nerve or blood-vessel injury;
- knee stiffness;
- persistent pain;
- instability;
- fracture around the implant;
- wear, loosening or failure of the components;
- the need for revision surgery;
- anaesthetic or medical complications.
The risk varies with age, general health, weight, smoking, diabetes control, previous surgery and other factors.
The NHS describes possible knee-replacement complications, including infection, blood clots and injury to nearby structures.
Seek urgent medical advice after surgery for:
- increasing wound redness, heat or discharge;
- fever or feeling significantly unwell;
- sudden worsening pain or swelling;
- new calf pain or one-sided leg swelling;
- chest pain, coughing blood or difficulty breathing;
- a cold, pale or numb foot;
- a fall followed by inability to bear weight.
Call 999 for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, chest pain or another life-threatening emergency.
Can you have a knee replacement through the NHS?
Yes. NHS knee replacement surgery is available without a private surgical charge when it is clinically appropriate. Referral commonly begins with a GP, physiotherapist or musculoskeletal service.
The pathway may include:
- assessment and X-rays;
- non-surgical treatment;
- referral to an orthopaedic surgeon;
- shared decision-making about surgery;
- pre-operative assessment;
- placement on the surgical waiting list.
Waiting times vary substantially among hospitals and UK nations. A published average does not reveal how long a particular patient will wait because clinical priority, provider capacity and choice of hospital all matter.
Age, disability or body weight alone should not automatically prevent referral. The benefits and risks should be considered individually, although a surgeon may recommend reducing avoidable risks before operating.
Our guide to knee replacement surgery in the UK: NHS versus private compares the pathways in more detail.
Will private health insurance cover the operation?
Private medical insurance may cover knee replacement when:
- the condition is eligible under the policy;
- it was not excluded as pre-existing;
- the insurer agrees that surgery is medically necessary;
- the consultant and hospital are recognised;
- authorisation is obtained before treatment.
You may still need to pay:
- the policy excess;
- a shortfall above the insurer’s fee limits;
- uncovered consultations or physiotherapy;
- charges for a non-approved implant or technology;
- treatment outside the approved hospital network.
A six-week NHS option may require you to use the NHS if it can provide surgery within the period specified by the policy. If the NHS wait is longer, private surgery may become eligible.
Do not book surgery before receiving an authorisation number and confirming which fees the insurer will pay. Ask whether robotic assistance and the proposed implant are included.
How should you compare private hospitals and surgeons?
Compare clinical care, aftercare and the full price rather than choosing solely by the advertised figure.
Ask:
- Who will perform the operation?
- How frequently does the surgeon perform this procedure?
- Do I need a total or partial replacement, and why?
- Which implant will be used?
- What evidence supports robotic assistance in my case?
- What is included in the package?
- How long is complication-related care covered?
- Who should I contact if a problem develops at night?
- How much physiotherapy is included?
- Where would I be treated if I developed a serious complication?
- What outcome is realistic for my current symptoms?
Check that the surgeon is registered with the General Medical Council and appears on the specialist register in an appropriate field. The hospital should be registered with the relevant healthcare regulator for its UK nation.
Be cautious if a provider:
- guarantees a pain-free or “normal” knee;
- recommends surgery before reviewing appropriate imaging;
- promotes robotic technology without explaining alternatives;
- pressures you to pay a deposit immediately;
- cannot provide a complete written quotation;
- does not explain complication and revision arrangements.
Our guide to private orthopaedic surgery costs in the UK provides further questions to ask about hospital and surgeon fees.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a private knee replacement in the UK?
A total knee replacement commonly costs approximately £12,000 to £18,000. Prices may be lower or exceed £20,000 depending on the hospital, surgeon, procedure and package.
How much is a partial knee replacement?
A private partial knee replacement commonly costs around £10,000 to £15,000. It is not always cheaper than a total replacement.
How much is robotic knee replacement?
Robotic-assisted surgery may cost approximately £15,000 to £22,000 or more. Some hospitals include the technology within their standard package.
Does the price include the implant?
A fixed-price surgical package normally includes a standard knee implant. Confirm the exact implant and whether specialist, customised or robotic components create an additional charge.
Are consultation and MRI fees included?
Often not. The hospital may charge separately for the initial consultation and diagnostic imaging before it can confirm the operation and provide a fixed quotation.
How long will I stay in hospital?
Many patients leave within one to four days. The timing depends on medical fitness, pain control, mobility, wound condition and home circumstances.
How long does recovery take?
Early mobility improves over the first weeks, but strength, swelling and function may continue to improve for several months. Recovery varies between individuals.
When can I drive after knee replacement?
Driving may be possible after approximately six weeks for some patients, but timing depends on which knee was treated, pain, strength, reaction time, use of medicines and ability to perform an emergency stop. Obtain advice from the surgical team and insurer.
How long does a knee replacement last?
Many modern knee replacements function for 15 to 20 years or longer, but longevity varies. Younger and more active patients have more time in which wear or loosening can develop.
Will I be completely pain-free?
Many people obtain substantial pain relief, but some continue to experience discomfort, stiffness or reduced function. Surgery should be considered with realistic expectations.
Can I choose my implant privately?
You can discuss implant options, but the surgeon should recommend one based on clinical evidence, anatomy and familiarity with the system. A more expensive or heavily marketed implant is not necessarily better.
Is private surgery safer than NHS surgery?
Not automatically. Both sectors use qualified surgeons and regulated facilities. Safety depends on the individual patient, surgical team, hospital systems, preparation and management of complications.
Can I pay for knee replacement monthly?
Some hospitals offer finance. Compare the cash price, interest rate, deposit, term and total repayable. The availability of finance should not determine whether surgery is clinically appropriate.
Can I remain on an NHS waiting list while requesting a private quote?
You can usually investigate private options without giving up NHS care. Tell the relevant services if you later proceed privately so that unnecessary appointments can be cancelled.
What happens if private surgery develops a complication?
The provider should explain which complications it will treat, for how long and at whose expense. Emergency NHS care remains available, but this does not remove the private provider’s responsibility for appropriate aftercare.
