How to Choose the Right Private Hip Replacement Clinic in the UK: A Helpful Checklist
- Mr Simon Garrett
- Aug 6
- 4 min read
If you're considering private hip replacement surgery, you're not alone, and you're not wrong to feel a little overwhelmed by the options. From costs and waiting times to the experience of the surgeon, there’s a lot to think about.
But here’s the good news about private hip replacement surgery: with a bit of research (and the right questions to ask), you can make an informed decision that feels right for you. I’ve put together a simple, practical checklist to help you compare clinics with confidence, whether you're booking your first consultation or narrowing things down.
Contents:
Your Surgeon and Team
Your choice of surgeon matters. You want someone who not only has the qualifications but also the right kind of experience. Make sure the surgeon is:
Registered with the General Medical Council (GMC)
A member of the British Orthopaedic Association (BOA)
Specialised in hip replacements, ideally performing them regularly
Transparent about their complication and revision rates
Don't be afraid to ask direct questions; any reputable consultant will and should always welcome them.
Clinic Reputation
Next, take some time to research the clinic or hospital itself. A quick glance at the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating will tell you a lot about cleanliness, safety, and the overall standard of care.
It could also be a good idea to read patient reviews or ask around both about the clinic and surgeon. You'll want to know what their experiences were like. Did they feel well supported before, during, and after surgery? Clean, modern facilities are a plus, but so is a warm, responsive care team who'll be looking after you pre- and post-surgery.
Surgical Techniques and Technology
Some clinics offer advanced surgical options like:
Minimally invasive techniques (me!)
MAKO robotic-assisted hip replacements (also, me)
Bilateral surgery if you need both hips treated (yep, I offer this too!)
While these aren’t necessary for everyone, they can offer quicker recovery times and greater precision. It’s worth asking whether your clinic has these options available and whether they’re right for you. Don't forget to take into consideration your lifestyle – this is a huge factor that I like to explore with patients when helping them decide on the best treatment option for their diagnosis.
Cost and Payment Options
I know that private surgery can be a significant investment, so make sure you know what you're paying for as well as what payment options are available to you. You'll be surprised how much more accessible private healthcare has become, especially with the pressure on the NHS. So ask whether the clinic offers a fixed-price package, which should ideally include:
The initial consultation (sometimes you just need this and won't need surgery; therefore, it'll be a standalone charge.)
Surgery and hospital stay
Post-op physiotherapy
Follow-up appointments
It's important to clarify how you can pay, for example, self-fund, use insurance, or use finance plans. You're welcome to ask for written confirmation of what's included to avoid any surprises later on.
Waiting Time and Accessibility
One of the benefits of going private is a much shorter waiting time, often just 4 to 6 weeks from your first consultation to the day of surgery. In my clinics across Dorset, I offer same-week appointments for example, so patients are pleasantly surprised when we offer them! Still, it’s important to think practically.
Is the clinic easy to get to for you and anyone supporting you?
Is parking straightforward and accessible?
Will you be able to manage follow-up visits easily?
A convenient location can make all the difference when you're in recovery, believe me!
Aftercare and Physiotherapy Support
The surgery is just one part of the journey; aftercare and rehab play a huge role in your recovery too. Check if physiotherapy is included in your package and don't hesitate to ask about the clinic’s rehabilitation plan. You'll want to look for ongoing support, especially in those first few weeks post-op when you're settling into life with a new hip.
A good clinic will support you every step of the way, from getting out of bed on day one to getting back to doing the things you love.
The Consultation Experience
Your first consultation should feel thorough and reassuring, not rushed or vague.
You can ask yourself these questions before and after the appointment for confidence and assurance:
Do you feel listened to and understood?
Have all your questions been answered clearly?
Has your consultant explained the risks, benefits, and recovery expectations in a way that makes sense to you?
Feeling confident and comfortable at this stage is a fantastic sign that you're in the right hands.
Recommendations and Referrals
Personal recommendations can be incredibly valuable.
Ask your GP, physiotherapist, or even friends and family if they’ve had positive experiences at a particular clinic or with a specific surgeon. You can also check professional directories and trusted online reviews to get a wider view. Here's where you can find my profiles: The Circle Health Group and The Nuffield Health.
You're also welcome to read my patient reviews here.
Download Your Free Checklist
To make all of this even easier, I’ve created a free, downloadable checklist that covers everything above, so you can print it out or keep it on your phone when comparing clinics.
Download your checklist here:
It’s a simple, practical way to stay organised and feel in control as you plan your next steps.
I hope you found this article helpful as you prepare for your initial consultation. If you would like to book in to see me at one of my Dorset clinics, do not hesitate to get in touch below to start your journey.
