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Shoulder Replacement in Poland: Cost, What's Included and How It Works for UK Patients (2026)
A shoulder replacement at OrthoVoyage's partner hospital in Poland costs €10,190 (about £8,770) for an anatomic replacement and €11,240 (about £9,670) for a reverse replacement. Published UK self-pay prices start at about £12,700. This page sets out what the price covers and what to plan for.
Key facts
- Anatomic shoulder replacement at OrthoVoyage's partner hospital in Poland costs €10,190 (about £8,770); reverse shoulder replacement costs €11,240 (about £9,670).
- The price includes general anaesthesia, the implant, three days in hospital and up to seven outpatient physiotherapy sessions.
- Practice Plus Group lists shoulder replacement at £12,749 (price list correct as at June 2026).
- Whether you need an anatomic or a reverse replacement depends mainly on the condition of your rotator cuff, and is the surgeon's decision.
- Flights, hotel and a private room are not included.
Checked 8 October 2026
Price and what it includes
| Operation | Price | Approx. in pounds |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomic shoulder replacement | €10,190 | £8,770 |
| Reverse shoulder replacement | €11,240 | £9,670 |
Included: general anaesthesia, the operation and the implant, three days in hospital and up to seven post-operative outpatient physiotherapy sessions.
Not included: flights, hotel accommodation and a private room.
For comparison, published UK self-pay prices for a shoulder replacement run from about £12,700 to £14,600; Practice Plus Group lists £12,749 (price list correct as at June 2026, checked 7 October 2026).
Anatomic or reverse?
An anatomic replacement copies the normal shoulder: a metal ball on the upper arm and a socket on the shoulder blade. It relies on a working rotator cuff.
A reverse replacement swaps the positions of the ball and socket so that the deltoid muscle does the lifting. It is used when the rotator cuff is badly torn or worn.
Which one is right for you is decided by the surgeon from your examination and scans. It is also why the two prices differ: they are different implants.
Travelling with an arm in a sling
After a shoulder replacement your arm is supported in a sling, and you will not be able to lift luggage. Plan for:
- a travelling companion, particularly for the journey home
- airport assistance, requested at least 48 hours before departure
- clothes that fasten at the front
- several weeks of physiotherapy at home after the sessions in Poland
You fly home when your surgeon clears you. Your records in English and your rehabilitation plan come with you for your GP and physiotherapist.
OrthoVoyage is a medical travel concierge, not a hospital, and does not give medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a shoulder replacement in Poland?
At OrthoVoyage's partner hospital an anatomic shoulder replacement is €10,190, about £8,770, and a reverse shoulder replacement €11,240, about £9,670, including the implant, three days in hospital and up to seven physiotherapy sessions.
Is a reverse shoulder replacement more expensive?
Yes, by €1,050 at this hospital, because it uses a different implant. The surgeon decides which type you need based on the state of your rotator cuff.
How does that compare with UK prices?
Published UK self-pay prices run from about £12,700 to £14,600; Practice Plus Group lists £12,749. Add flights and a hotel to the Polish price before comparing.
Sources
- Private surgery costs — price list (correct as at June 2026) — Practice Plus Group
- How to access help and support (assisted travel) — UK Civil Aviation Authority
- Treatment abroad checklist — NHS
This article is for information only and is not medical advice. Always discuss treatment options with your GP or a specialist.
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