Rotator-cuff problems can cause pain and weakness in your shoulder. Surgery can help to reduce any pain and to get back some strength in your shoulder.
What is the rotator cuff?
Rotator-cuff problems can cause pain and weakness in your shoulder. Surgery can help to reduce any pain and to get back some strength in your shoulder.
The rotator cuff is formed from four muscles and tendons that attach your arm to the top of your shoulder blade. Impingement or a tear are the usual types of damage that can happen to the rotator cuff.
How do I know if I have damaged my rotator cuff?
You may have sustained a rotator cuff injury if:
- You feel a dull ache deep in the shoulder
- Pain disturbs your sleep
- You find it difficult to comb your hair or reach behind your back
- Pain is accompanied by arm weakness
What does the operation involve?
Shoulder surgery is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. However, a variety of anaesthetic techniques is possible. The operation usually takes 45 minutes to an hour.
Impingement is usually treated by arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) - your surgeon will use instruments to remove any thickened tissue, release any tight tissue and to shave off some bone.
Your surgeon may use open surgery to repair any tears. They will make a single cut on the front of your shoulder and they will repair the rotator cuff using stitches that anchor into the bone.
Are there any alternatives to surgery?
Most people with impingement or a small tear can get back good function by changing their activities and with the help of physiotherapy. Simple painkillers such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen can also help.
A steroid and local-anaesthetic injection into your shoulder can sometimes reduce pain. Although, if you have a large tear, it is likely that surgery is your only option to get back some strength in your shoulder.
Information leaflet
This document is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
© EIDO Systems International
The operation and treatment information on this webpage is produced using information from EIDO Systems International and is licensed by Horder Healthcare. The information should not replace the advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
Consultants that perform this procedure
Guide price for self-pay patients
Rotator Cuff Surgery (open subacromial decompression and rotor cuff repair )
| Estimated Cost * | |
|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | from £220 |
| Diagnostics | from £85 |
| Treatment | from £5,538* |
Estimated total cost from £5,843
* The guide price is effective from 1 January 2026
What's included
The treatment price includes surgery, a private en-suite room, inpatient physiotherapy when applicable, and follow-up consultation. The initial consultation fee and diagnostics will be charged separately. Our private patients also receive continuity of care up to and including 120 days following surgery.
The guide price is based on the usual clinical needs of patients. The price you pay might be different depending on your medical history and the type of implant you choose or your Consultant advises is best for you. Not all Consultants are signed up to Horder Healthcare’s treatment price, please check prior to your appointment.
Your price quotation will be made clear to you before you proceed with any tests, consultations, or treatment.
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If you find an alternative private hospital in your local area offering a better price for the same procedure, sold with the same service conditions, we’ll lower our price* to equal it.
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