Published UK private hospital prices, September 2026.
NHS ENT waits vary by area; in London the median was around 14 weeks in mid-2026.
What's usually included
Usually surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, hospital stay and follow-up. Fewer hospitals publish this price, so ask for a written quote.
Example published prices
Prices are published "from" or guide prices and can change. Your consultant, the hospital, London location and medical complexity can all raise the final cost — always ask for a written, all-inclusive quote.
Self-pay or health insurance?
Paying yourself makes sense if you need one known procedure now — health insurance won't cover a condition you already have. Insurance is designed for what might happen in future: it spreads the cost of unexpected diagnosis and treatment into a monthly premium. See our guide to self-pay vs health insurance, or estimate what cover would cost you.
Read more about recurrent tonsillitis: symptoms, waiting times and treatment.
Questions and answers
How much does a private adult tonsillectomy cost in the UK?
A private tonsillectomy for an adult typically costs £2,500–£4,500. Prices vary by hospital, consultant and location, so always ask for a written, all-inclusive quote.
What's included in the price of a private adult tonsillectomy?
Usually surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, hospital stay and follow-up. Fewer hospitals publish this price, so ask for a written quote.
Will health insurance pay for an adult tonsillectomy?
If you have private health insurance and the condition started after your policy began, your insurer will usually cover it, subject to your policy terms, limits and excess. Conditions you had before taking out cover are normally excluded, so insurance won't help with treatment you already need.
Can I get an adult tonsillectomy on the NHS instead?
NHS ENT waits vary by area; in London the median was around 14 weeks in mid-2026. Ask your GP about your NHS options, including choosing where you're treated.
Can I spread the cost of private treatment?
Many private hospitals offer finance or payment plans for self-pay patients. Check the interest rate and terms carefully before agreeing.
Other treatment costs
- Hip replacement
- Knee replacement
- Cataract surgery
- Inguinal hernia repair
- MRI scan
- Colonoscopy
- Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy)
- Gallbladder removal
- Carpal tunnel release
- Knee arthroscopy
- Varicose vein treatment
- Private GP appointment
- Private consultant appointment