Shoulder Replacement
Shoulder replacement removes the worn or damaged surfaces of the shoulder joint and replaces them with artificial parts to relieve pain and restore movement. It is used for severe shoulder arthritis, rotator-cuff-related joint damage, and some complex fractures. Depending on the problem, a standard (anatomic) or a reverse shoulder replacement is chosen.
Medically reviewed by the Florence Healthcare medical team · Last reviewed June 2026
Overview
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint. When the cartilage wears away — from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, long-standing rotator-cuff damage, or after a serious fracture — the joint becomes painful and stiff. Shoulder replacement resurfaces the worn parts with a metal ball and a plastic (or metal-backed) socket to restore a smooth, pain-free joint.
There are two main types. A standard (anatomic) total shoulder replacement rebuilds the joint in its natural arrangement and suits people whose rotator-cuff muscles still work well. A reverse shoulder replacement switches the ball and socket around, allowing other muscles to power the arm — the better option when the rotator cuff is badly torn or the joint is very damaged. The surgeon chooses the type after examining you and reviewing your imaging, sometimes with robotic or computer planning, and physiotherapy afterwards is central to a good result.
For international patients, a dedicated coordinator arranges the assessment, a written plan and a transparent, itemized cost estimate before travel. Our specialists can review your X-rays and scans remotely to advise whether shoulder replacement is appropriate and which type, and a clear rehabilitation plan is provided so recovery can continue after you return home.
Who is a candidate?
- People with severe shoulder arthritis causing pain and stiffness that limits daily life
- Those whose pain is not controlled by medication, injections and physiotherapy
- People with rotator-cuff-related joint damage who may be suited to a reverse replacement
- Patients with certain complex shoulder fractures, particularly in older adults
- Those fit enough for surgery and able to take part in the rehabilitation program
What happens
- 1
Assessment and planning
The surgeon examines your shoulder and reviews X-rays and often a CT or MRI to judge the joint and rotator cuff, then recommends whether an anatomic or reverse replacement suits you.
- 2
Preparation
You meet the surgical and anesthesia teams, who plan general anesthesia usually combined with a nerve block for comfort, and explain the operation and recovery.
- 3
The operation
The worn surfaces are removed and replaced with the artificial ball and socket, in either the standard or reverse arrangement. The wound is closed and your arm supported in a sling.
- 4
Recovery and rehabilitation
You start gentle movement early, guided by physiotherapy, and progress over several months. Following the rehabilitation program closely is key to regaining movement and strength.
Benefits
- Reliable, long-lasting relief of shoulder pain in well-selected patients
- Improved movement and the ability to return to everyday activities
- Reverse replacement can restore function even when the rotator cuff is badly torn
- Modern implants and planning aim for an accurate, durable result
- A structured rehabilitation plan supports recovery, including for patients returning home abroad
Risks & considerations
- General risks of major surgery and anesthesia, including bleeding, infection and blood clots
- Stiffness, or not regaining full movement despite rehabilitation
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels near the shoulder, which is uncommon
- Dislocation of the new joint, or loosening or wear of the implant over the years
- Some implants may eventually need revision surgery, particularly in younger, active patients
Conditions this treats
Where it is performed
This procedure is delivered by our Spine Center & Orthopedics Department.
Learn more before you decide
Provider-reviewed guides on the related conditions, symptoms and tests in our Health Library.
Shoulder Replacement — frequently asked questions
A standard (anatomic) replacement rebuilds the joint in its natural layout and works well when the rotator-cuff muscles are intact. A reverse replacement swaps the ball and socket so other muscles can move the arm, and is used when the rotator cuff is badly torn or the joint is very damaged. Your surgeon recommends the right type after examining you and reviewing your scans.
Pain often improves early, but regaining movement and strength is gradual over several months and depends heavily on following your physiotherapy program. Your team gives you a step-by-step plan and milestones to expect.
Modern shoulder replacements last many years for most people, though implants can eventually loosen or wear, especially in younger, very active patients, and may sometimes need revision. Your surgeon discusses what is realistic for your situation.
Yes. Our specialists can review your X-rays and scans remotely and advise whether shoulder replacement is appropriate and which type would suit you, before you decide to travel.
Shoulder replacement usually means one to three nights in hospital plus further recovery locally — your coordinator confirms the timeline. We provide a transparent, itemized estimate after reviewing your case and do not quote fixed prices online because each plan is individual.
Related treatments
Considering shoulder replacement?
Share your reports for a medical second opinion and a transparent, itemized cost estimate — usually within 48 hours.