Shoulder replacement surgery

Shoulder pain from overuse, injury, or aging can make simple tasks like getting dressed or lifting your arm difficult. When the cushioning in the shoulder joint wears down, movement becomes painful and can lead to osteoarthritis. Shoulder replacement surgery helps by removing the damaged parts of the joint and replacing them with artificial components that restore smoother movement and reduce pain, so you can return to the activities you enjoy.

This procedure is performed by orthopaedic surgeons who specialize in treating bones and joints. At Penn Medicine, our shoulder surgery specialists perform the full range of open and minimally invasive surgeries, including total shoulder replacement and advanced arthroscopy techniques. Many of these approaches were developed or refined by our surgeons.

Shoulder replacement surgery can be done as either an outpatient or an inpatient procedure. You’ll receive anesthesia, either general (to put you to sleep) or regional (to numb your arm and shoulder). During the procedure, your surgeon makes a cut over the shoulder joint, removes the damaged parts of your arm bone and socket, and replaces them with artificial components. Depending on the type of replacement (total, partial, or reverse), the surgeon replaces the ball, the socket, or both. The surgery usually takes between 90 minutes and three hours. 

Your recovery time after shoulder surgery depends on your health and the type of procedure. Many people go home the same day after minimally invasive outpatient surgery, while others stay overnight for monitoring. You’ll wear a sling for several weeks to protect your shoulder and to limit certain movements. As you heal, you’ll begin working with an occupational or physical therapist to learn safe ways to move and regain function. Most people steadily build strength and motion over the next four to six months. 

At Penn Medicine, our orthopaedic surgeons have extensive experience in the full range of shoulder surgery techniques. We use a coordinated, team-based approach, bringing together surgeons, nurses, and physical therapists to support your recovery from the moment you arrive through your return to daily activities.

Patients choose us for our leadership in orthopaedics. Our surgeons help set national standards, publish widely, and have developed many techniques used in shoulder care today. They’re also regularly recognized in Best Doctors in America®.