Shoulder Replacement Surgery Guide

What Is Shoulder Replacement?

Shoulder replacement (arthroplasty) removes the damaged surfaces of the shoulder joint and replaces them with artificial components. The ball of the upper arm bone is replaced with a polished metal ball, and the socket is resurfaced with a smooth plastic component. About 100,000 shoulder replacements are performed annually in the US — the number has tripled in the last 15 years as techniques have improved.

Types of Shoulder Replacement

Anatomic (Standard) Replacement: Replaces the ball with a metal ball and the socket with a plastic liner, preserving the natural anatomy. Best for patients with intact rotator cuffs and arthritis.

Reverse Shoulder Replacement: Switches the ball and socket — a metal ball is placed on the socket side and a cup on the arm bone side. Revolutionary design for patients with massive rotator cuff tears, previous failed surgery, or complex fractures. Now accounts for over 60% of all shoulder replacements.

Partial (Hemiarthroplasty): Replaces only the ball, not the socket. Used for certain fractures and early arthritis.

Cost

Shoulder replacement costs $18,000 to $55,000 before insurance. Reverse replacement tends to cost slightly more due to implant complexity. Most insurance and Medicare cover shoulder replacement when medically necessary.

Recovery

Weeks 1-6: Sling. Passive motion exercises. No lifting.
Weeks 6-12: Active motion begins. Sling discontinued.
Months 3-6: Strengthening. Return to light activities, driving, desk work.
Months 6-12: Continued improvement. Swimming, golf, and most activities resume. Avoid heavy overhead lifting and contact sports permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions