Shoulder Surgery

Reverse Shoulder Replacement

A surgical option to improve shoulder function in complex joint conditions

Reverse shoulder replacement is a type of shoulder arthroplasty that may be considered when conventional shoulder replacement is not suitable. It is used in cases where there is arthritis combined with rotator cuff damage, complex arthritis with severe bone loss, rotator cuff tearing which can’t be repaired, fractures which can’t be reconstructed, or repeat surgery when existing replacements have failed.

Unlike a standard shoulder replacement, this procedure changes the mechanics of the joint to allow other muscles, particularly the deltoid, to help lift and move the arm. This approach facilitates movement with no reliance on rotator cuff tendons.

It was developed in the 1950’s, and used reliably with modern materials from the early 2000’s.

Reverse replacement now is performed with computer assisted surgical planning, individualised 3D-printed surgical instruments, or robotic assistance.

On this page, you will learn what reverse shoulder replacement involves, when it may be considered, how the procedure is performed, and what to expect during recovery and rehabilitation. During your consultation, Dr Dallalana will provide personalised advice based on your symptoms, functional goals, and overall shoulder condition.

Understanding reverse shoulder replacement surgery

Reverse shoulder replacement is a type of shoulder arthroplasty designed to improve shoulder function in patients where the rotator cuff is no longer working effectively. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder and allow controlled movement. When these structures are significantly damaged or torn, a conventional (anatomic) shoulder replacement may not provide reliable function.

In a reverse shoulder replacement, the normal ball-and-socket structure of the shoulder joint is reversed. A metal ball component is attached to the shoulder blade (glenoid), and a socket component is placed at the top of the upper arm bone (humerus). This change in joint configuration creates a very stable point of rotation and allows the deltoid muscle alone to perform the role of lifting and moving the arm.

These altered biomechanics can help restore shoulder elevation and improve overall arm function in appropriately selected patients. The procedure is most commonly considered for individuals with conditions such as rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis combined with rotator cuff tearing), severe arthritis where there is bone loss or distortion of the normal shape, irreparable rotator cuff tears with weakness and pain, complex shoulder fractures, or previous shoulder surgeries that have not achieved the desired outcome.

It is the procedure of choice in most circumstances where revision (repeat) surgery is required due to worn out or failed joint replacement. It is the type of replacement performed in most cases where a custom-made component of the shoulder replacement is required.

Reverse shoulder replacement is a well-established surgical option; however it is not suitable for every patient. Careful assessment of your shoulder anatomy, muscle function, bone quality, and overall health is required to determine whether this procedure may be appropriate.

During your consultation, Dr Richard Dallalana will perform a thorough clinical evaluation and review your imaging to understand the underlying cause of your symptoms. He will discuss all available treatment options with you, including non-surgical management where appropriate, and explain whether reverse shoulder replacement may help improve your shoulder function and quality of life. Discussion will include whether other options such as a conventional (anatomic) shoulder replacement may be a viable alternative.

Symptoms, conditions and suitability for reverse shoulder replacement

Reverse shoulder replacement may be considered when shoulder pain and loss of function are significantly affecting your ability to perform everyday activities.

Common symptoms that may be experienced

Symptoms can vary depending on the underlying condition but may include:

Shoulder pain, particularly with movement or at night
Difficulty lifting the arm above shoulder height. This may even be painless
Weakness or reduced strength in the shoulder
Limited range of motion
Difficulty with daily activities such as dressing, driving, reaching, or lifting

Conditions that may be treated with reverse shoulder replacement

Reverse shoulder replacement may be considered in a range of conditions affecting the shoulder.

These may include:

1

Rotator cuff tear arthropathy

Primary osteoarthritis is the most common reason patients undergo anatomic shoulder replacement. This condition occurs when the cartilage lining the shoulder joint gradually wears away over time. As cartilage is lost, joint surfaces become rough, inflamed, and painful, leading to stiffness and progressive loss of movement. There is often a family history of arthritis. Many people have this type of arthritis in many joints incuding hips, knees, fingers and spine.

2

Severe shoulder arthritis with bone loss

Arthritis can develop following previous shoulder injuries, including fractures, dislocations, or ligament injuries. Even when initial injuries heal, damage to cartilage or changes in joint alignment may lead to gradual joint degeneration and long-term pain. Arthritis is very common after many years of playing collision sports.

3

Irreparable rotator cuff tears

Inflammatory joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder joint by causing chronic inflammation of the joint lining. Over time, this inflammation may damage cartilage and surrounding structures, leading to joint destruction and functional limitation.

4

Complex shoulder fractures

Avascular necrosis occurs when the blood supply to the head of the upper arm bone becomes disrupted, causing the bone to weaken and collapse. As the joint surface deteriorates, pain and stiffness typically develop, and joint replacement may be considered in advanced cases.

5

Failed previous shoulder surgery

Who may be suitable for reverse shoulder replacement surgery

Suitability depends on a combination of structural findings and functional limitations. This procedure may be considered where:

Who may be suitable for reverse shoulder replacement surgery

Alternative treatment approaches may be considered when:

Symptoms are mild or manageable with non-surgical care
Other surgical procedures may offer a more appropriate solution, e.g. a conventional shoulder replacement is generally preferred if shoulder structure is favourable.
Very young age or high demand work, sports or other physical activity. This needs to be discussed on an individual basis.
Very advanced age with severe osteoporosis
Paralysis of the deltoid muscle
Recent infection in the shoulder

How your shoulder is assessed and planned for surgery

Careful assessment and detailed pre-operative planning play an important role in reverse shoulder replacement surgery. The aim is to understand the structure of your shoulder, the condition of the bone and surrounding muscles, and how these factors may influence both the surgical approach and expected outcomes.

Clinical assessment and functional evaluation

Your shoulder function is assessed through a detailed physical examination. This includes evaluating:

Range of motion
Strength of the shoulder and surrounding muscles
Stability of the joint
Movement patterns and any compensatory mechanics

This helps determine how the shoulder is currently functioning and the extent to which the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles are contributing to movement.

Any existing rotator cuff musculature is preserved during reverse replacement as this can contribute towards better function in the final outcome.

Advanced imaging and structural assessment

Imaging is used to assess the underlying anatomy and guide surgical planning. This may include:

X-rays to evaluate joint space, alignment, and bone density
MRI scans to assess the rotator cuff, soft tissues, and muscle quality
CT scans to provide detailed information about bone structure and is then used to for 3D computer planning of the surgery

These imaging modalities allow for a comprehensive understanding of both bone and soft tissue integrity, which is particularly important in reverse shoulder replacement, where implant positioning and fixation are key considerations.

A CT scan is almost always performed prior to this surgery. An MRI is not always needed.

Computer planning, custom instrumentation and robotics

Pre-operative planning involves determining the size, position, and orientation of the implant components based on your individual anatomy before the actual surgery. More accurate implantation can reduce complications such as early wear or dislocation and achieve a higher range of motion.

3D computer-based planning of an individual’s shoulder replacement has been standard of care in Mr. Dallalana’s practice since 2013, and this was one of the first centres in the world where this was being conducted.

Data from the CT scan is used in a 3D computer design program to create a digital image of the patient’s shoulder on which the surgery is completely performed. From this result, tools are available to guide the surgery so that the position of the prosthesis and the bone cuts are millimetre perfect. They help replicate during the surgery the images of the prosthetic component position created on screen.

Tools to help accurately execute the surgery include:

1

Patient-specific 3D-printed surgical instruments

These are single-use instruments to guide the bone cuts and preparation for shoulder replacement component implantation, and then discarded.

2

Live in-surgery navigation

Small cameras are placed on the bones and on the surgical tools such as drills and saws to guide the procedure in real time according to the previously planned component position.

3

Robotic assistance

In these cases, a robotic arm is used to make some of the cuts in the bone required.

These advanced technologies also allow fashioning of shaped bone grafts if required in advanced cases and, are the basis of fully customised prosthetic implant manufacture in very complex cases.

Motion studies of the digital images can predict a patient’s movement range after the surgery.

Tailoring the surgical approach to your shoulder

Each reverse shoulder replacement is planned individually. Factors such as your anatomy, previous surgeries, and the condition of your rotator cuff and bone will influence:

How reverse shoulder replacement differs from anatomic shoulder replacement

Reverse shoulder replacement and anatomic shoulder replacement are both procedures designed to address shoulder pain and dysfunction however, they are used in different clinical situations and rely on different biomechanics to restore movement.

Difference in joint design

In an anatomic shoulder replacement, the prosthesis replicates the natural anatomy of the shoulder:

A metal ball replaces the head of the humerus (upper arm bone)
A socket component replaces the glenoid (shoulder blade)

This approach relies on a functioning rotator cuff to stabilise and move the joint.

In contrast, a reverse shoulder replacement changes the orientation of the joint:

A metal ball is attached to the glenoid (shoulder blade)
A socket is placed on the humerus

This reversed configuration allows the shoulder to function differently, particularly when the rotator cuff is no longer able to perform its role.

Difference in muscle function

The key distinction between the two procedures is how the shoulder generates movement and remains stable.

Without stability of the ball on the socket, a shoulder replacement can’t function properly.

Anatomic shoulder replacement depends on an intact rotator cuff to stabilise the ball and socket
Reverse shoulder replacement creates stability by being a more constrained (deeper) ball and socket which can’t separate easily

This makes reverse shoulder replacement a more suitable option in cases where the rotator cuff is severely damaged or irreparable.

Difference in Appearance

The shoulder contour is unchanged after an anatomic replacement, while a slight squaring-off of the point of the shoulder where the deltoid muscle sits is noted after reverse replacement. This is not of any consequence and is due to a slight necessary lengthening of the arm.

Anatomic shoulder replacement may be considered when:

The rotator cuff is intact and functional
Shoulder arthritis is the primary issue
Joint surfaces are worn but bone loss is minimal

Reverse shoulder replacement may be considered when:

There is significant rotator cuff damage or prior surgery to the rotator cuff has been performed.
Severe arthritis has eroded the bone of the socket to the point where a resurfacing of the socket (glenoid) as part of an anatomic shoulder replacement is not possible
Complex prior fractures or bone conditions have distorted the normal anatomy
Other conditions such as fractures where reconstruction of the bone fragments is not possible.

Implant design and surgical technique in reverse shoulder replacement

Reverse shoulder replacement involves the use of specialised implant components designed to change how the shoulder joint functions. The aim is to create a stable ball and socket to allow the deltoid muscle to assist with lifting and moving the arm, often when the rotator cuff is no longer effective.

Implant components used in reverse shoulder replacement

A reverse shoulder replacement prosthesis typically consists of three main components:

Glenosphere (ball component)
A metal ball that is fixed to the glenoid (shoulder blade), replacing the socket side of the joint
Humeral component (socket)
A stem inserted into the upper arm bone (humerus), with a socket that connects to the ball
Polyethylene liner
A durable high-density plastic insert that sits between the metallic humeral socket and the ball.

This configuration reverses the normal anatomy of the shoulder.

Careful implant selection and positioning are important in supporting functional outcomes and reducing the risk of complications such as instability or wear over time.

Surgical technique

Reverse shoulder replacement is performed under general anaesthesia, often combined with a regional nerve block to assist with post-operative pain control.

The procedure typically involves:

Making an incision over the front of the shoulder
Accessing the joint by separating the deltoid and pec major muscles. These are not detached.
Preparing the glenoid (socket) and securing the ball (glenosphere) onto a titanium plate fixed on with screws.
Preparing the humerus (upper arm bone) to receive the implant stem
Inserting the humeral component and polyethylene liner
Testing stability, movement, and tension
Closure of the skin with absorbable suture

Throughout the procedure, attention is given to restoring appropriate soft tissue balance and ensuring the implant components are positioned accurately. Tools described above are used to assist in accurate positioning, tailored to the individual.

What to expect on the day of surgery and early pain management

Understanding what happens on the day of surgery can help you feel more prepared and confident as you move through your treatment journey.

Before your surgery

On the day of your reverse shoulder replacement, you will be admitted to hospital and prepared for theatre.

This typically includes:

Meeting the nursing team and confirming your admission details
Final checks of your medical history and consent paperwork
Marking of the surgical site
Review by the anaesthetist to discuss the planned anaesthetic and pain management approach
Review by Dr Dallalana and his assistant

You will be guided through each step by the hospital team to ensure you are comfortable and well-informed.

Anaesthesia and early pain control

Reverse shoulder replacement is usually performed under a general anaesthetic, often combined with a regional nerve block.

The general anaesthetic ensures you are asleep during the procedure
The nerve block helps numb the shoulder and arm, providing pain relief during and after surgery for approx. 12 hours.

This combination may help reduce discomfort in the early post-operative period and support a more comfortable initial recovery.

Immediately after surgery

Following the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery area where your condition will be closely monitored as you wake from anaesthesia.

You can expect:

Monitoring of your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels)
Assessment of pain levels and comfort
Your arm positioned in a sling for initial support while the nerve block is working
The effects of the nerve block may still be present, resulting in temporary numbness or weakness in the arm

Once stable, you will be transferred to your hospital room.

Early recovery in hospital

Your hospital stay will vary depending on your progress, but most patients remain in hospital for two nights

During this time:

Pain management will be provided using a combination of medications tailored to your needs
The surgical team will monitor your wound and overall recovery
The sling will not be necessary other than for comfort if desired, and early use of the hand and arm for eating, dressing and toileting will be encouraged
Physiotherapy will begin on day 1, focusing on gentle movement and safe positioning. Printed instructions are given to take home.
You will be guided on how to manage your sling and protect your shoulder

The aim during this phase is to ensure you are comfortable, medically stable, and confident with early post-operative care before returning home. Transition to inpatient rehabilitation can be arranged if supports at home are lacking and self-care remains difficult.

Managing pain in the early stages

It is normal to experience some discomfort following surgery, particularly as the nerve block wears off.

Pain management may include:

Oral pain relief medications
Anti-inflammatory medications (where appropriate)
Ice therapy to help reduce swelling
Guidance on positioning and movement to minimise strain on the shoulder

Pain levels vary between individuals, and your care team will adjust your pain management plan as needed to support your recovery.

Often the arm is less painful out of the sling, and it is safe to do this from the earliest stages.

Recovery and returning to daily activities after surgery

Recovery after reverse shoulder replacement is a gradual and structured process that focuses on protecting the joint, restoring movement, and improving function over time. Your recovery timeline will vary depending on your individual condition, surgical findings, and overall health.

Early recovery (first 0–6 weeks)

In the initial phase after surgery, the focus is on pain control, wound protection and development of initial movement and basic use of the arm

Gradual reduction in pain and swelling noted. Simple analgesics used, with occasional stronger medication for pain as directed in the hospital
Arm is free from a sling at night, inside the home and at a desk
Sling used when walking outside of the home
Gentle specific exercises as directed by the hospital physiotherapist
Hand and arm used for eating, dressing, typing and other light tasks.

During this time, you may need assistance with some daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and household tasks.

Intermediate phase (6–12 weeks)

Rehabilitation focuses on gradually restoring movement and beginning to rebuild strength.

This phase includes:

Increasing range of motion exercises guided by a physiotherapist, towards maximum extent
Light strengthening exercises
No sling use
Basic functional use – household activities; light gardening
Driving permitted

Later recovery (3–6 months and beyond)

In the later stages of recovery, the aim is to improve strength, coordination, and functional use of the shoulder.

Continue strengthening exercises
Progress toward all normal daily activities
Improve overhead movement with daily stretches
Return to low-impact sports and hobbies e.g. golf, swimming, fishing, bowls from 3 months
Higher level activities such as tennis, skiing and weights training are usually possible from around 6 months after surgery

Gradual ongoing improvement in function and general comfort is seen up to 12 months following surgery.

Heavier lifting, repetitive overhead activity, or high-impact use of the shoulder may need to be modified or avoided, depending on your individual circumstances.

Factors that may influence recovery

Recovery outcomes can be influenced by several factors, including:

Potential risks and complications of reverse shoulder replacement

Reverse shoulder replacement is a well-established procedure that may help improve shoulder function and reduce pain in appropriately selected patients. As with all surgical procedures, there are potential risks and complications that should be understood before proceeding. During your consultation, Dr Dallalana will discuss these risks in the context of your individual shoulder condition, overall health, and treatment goals to support informed decision-making.

General surgical risks

Risks associated with most surgical procedures include:

Infection
Bleeding or bruising
Adverse reactions to anaesthesia

Measures are taken before, during, and after surgery to reduce these risks, including sterile surgical techniques, peri-operative antibiotics, and careful medical assessment.

Anaesthetic considerations

Reverse shoulder replacement is typically performed under general anaesthesia, often combined with a regional nerve block.

Complications related to anaesthesia are uncommon and are influenced by overall health and medical history. A pre-operative medical assessment is usually undertaken to help optimise your condition prior to surgery.

Specific risks related to anaesthesia or nerve blocks can be discussed with the anaesthetist before or on the day of surgery.

Infection around the joint replacement

Infection may occur early after surgery or, less commonly, at a later stage. Management may involve antibiotics or further procedures depending on severity.

Nerve injury

Injury to surrounding nerves is very uncommon but may result in temporary or, rarely, persistent weakness or altered feeling in the arm or hand.

Stiffness or limited range of motion

Some patients may experience ongoing stiffness or limitations in shoulder movement despite surgery. Rehabilitation plays an important role in optimising outcomes. Significant limitation is uncommon and usually only when the condition of the shoulder before the surgery was very severe.

Risks specific to reverse shoulder replacement

While many risks are similar to other joint replacement procedures, some considerations are more specific to reverse shoulder replacement due to the altered biomechanics of the joint.

Instability or dislocation

Compared to anatomic shoulder replacement, reverse shoulder replacement has a higher risk of dislocation, particularly in the early post-operative period. This risk may be reduced by implant positioning, soft tissue balance, and adherence to movement restrictions during recovery.

Loosening or wear of implant components

Over time, implant components may wear out or loosen from the bone. Modern implant designs and materials aim to reduce this risk, however long-term outcomes can depend on factors such as activity levels and bone quality.

Fracture around the implant

Fractures of the humerus or scapula may occur during or after surgery, particularly in patients with reduced bone quality. This can be the result of a fall.

Stress fracture of the acromion

Occasionally a stress fracture of the acromion (upper part of the shoulder blade) can occur due to relative thinning of the bone due to prior disuse. This can cause pain and lead to reduced movement, but does not usually require further surgery

Factors that may influence complication risk

The likelihood of complications can vary between individuals and may be influenced by:

Age and general health
Bone quality (osteoporosis)
Condition of the deltoid muscle
Previous shoulder surgery
Smoking status
Adherence to rehabilitation and movement precautions

Optimising your health prior to surgery and following post-operative guidance may help reduce risk.

Recognising potential complications after surgery

You should seek medical review if you experience:

Increasing pain that does not improve with time
Redness, swelling, or discharge around the wound
Fever or signs of infection
Sudden loss of shoulder movement or function
New numbness or weakness in the arm or hand

Early assessment allows timely management if complications arise.

Balancing risks and expected benefits

For many patients, reverse shoulder replacement may provide meaningful improvements in shoulder function and daily activity when carefully selected. The decision to proceed with surgery involves balancing the potential benefits with the risks, based on your individual condition. Dr Dallalana will discuss expected outcomes, potential risks, and alternative treatment options with you to support a considered and informed decision.

Long-term outcomes and expectations after surgery

Reverse shoulder replacement is designed to improve shoulder function and reduce pain in patients where other treatment options may not provide reliable results. Long-term outcomes can vary depending on the underlying condition, muscle function, and individual health factors.

Significant improvement in general function of the arm is expected

Pain relief is reliable, to either a totally pain-free shoulder, or one with a mild ache or a catching sensation in certain positions. Night pain should resolve.

The degree of movement achieved can vary, and while many patients regain excellent elevation and rotation of the arm, full restoration of normal shoulder movement is not always expected. Reaching behind the back is a difficult shoulder movement to regain, and this is not always possible after reverse replacement.

Patients with more complex conditions or previous surgeries may have different expectations compared to those undergoing a more simple procedure.

Longevity of the implant

Modern reverse shoulder replacement implants are designed to be durable and perform well over time. Implant longevity varies and may be influenced by:

Activity levels
Bone quality
Implant positioning
Overall health

While many implants function well for many years, some patients may require further surgery in the future due to wear, loosening, or other factors.

Long term data collection in many countries demonstrates that around 5% of patients will require a repeat surgical procedure by 10 years. The vast majority of patients will have a reverse replacement which lasts for 20 years.

Activity expectations after surgery

Following full recovery, patients are able to return to all normal daily activities, and most recreational activities or sports.

Activities involving heavy lifting, repetitive overhead use, or high-impact forces may need to be modified or avoided to help protect the joint over time. These need to be individually discussed.

Ongoing care and follow-up

Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor the function of the shoulder and the condition of the implant over time.

These reviews allow:

Assessment of movement and function
Early identification of any concerns with Xray
Ongoing guidance regarding activity and shoulder care

Usual review times by Dr. Dallalana are at 2 weeks, 3 months and 12 months following surgery.

Setting realistic expectations

Reverse shoulder replacement aims to improve comfort and restore functional movement, rather than replicate a completely normal shoulder. Understanding the expected outcomes and limitations of surgery can help support a positive recovery experience and long-term satisfaction with the procedure.

Frequently asked questions about reverse shoulder replacement

How do I know if reverse shoulder replacement is the right option for me?

A thorough assessment of your symptoms, shoulder function, imaging findings, and treatment goals helps determine whether reverse shoulder replacement may be appropriate. This procedure is typically considered when the rotator cuff is not functioning adequately, bone stock is diminished, and other treatments are unlikely to restore shoulder movement.

What is the difference between anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement?

Anatomic shoulder replacement replicates the natural joint and relies on a functioning rotator cuff for stability and movement.
Reverse shoulder replacement changes the joint mechanics such that it is no longer reliant on a functioning rotator cuff, with stability conferred by a more constrained ball and socket articulation, and movement upwards performed by the deltoid muscle.

Is reverse shoulder replacement better than anatomic shoulder replacement?

Neither procedure is universally better. They are primarily designed for different shoulder conditions – anatomic for arthritis with an intact rotator cuff, reverse for a deficient rotator cuff or distorted bone structure. The most appropriate option depends on rotator cuff function, bone quality, and individual goals, age and activity levels.

Are there alternatives to reverse shoulder replacement surgery?

Non-surgical treatments are usually considered first and may include:

Physiotherapy and strengthening programs
Activity modification
Anti-inflammatory medications where appropriate
Corticosteroid injections
Lubricant (hyaluronic acid) injections

These approaches may help manage symptoms but may not restore function in advanced cases.

What happens if I delay reverse shoulder replacement surgery?

In some cases, surgery can be safely delayed while symptoms are managed conservatively. However, progressive muscle changes, joint damage, or stiffness may influence future treatment options. Regular review can help guide the timing of surgery.

How painful is reverse shoulder replacement surgery?

Some discomfort is expected after surgery, particularly in the early stages. Pain is managed using a structured approach, often including a nerve block and oral medications. Pain typically improves quite rapidly as healing progresses. Most patients are comfortable by 2 weeks following surgery for daily living.

How long will I be in hospital after surgery?

Hospital stay is usually short, commonly 2 days, depending on your recovery and support at home.

When does physiotherapy begin after reverse shoulder replacement?

Physiotherapy begins on the first day. Early rehabilitation focuses on gentle, protected movement, with progression guided over time.

When can I drive after reverse shoulder replacement?

Driving is usually resumed once the sling is no longer required and you can safely control the vehicle. This is often around 6 weeks, but timing varies between individuals.

When can I return to work after surgery?

Return to work depends on your role. Sedentary / office work, particularly from home, may be possible within days. Physically demanding roles may require 3 to 6 months of recovery.

Will I regain full movement after reverse shoulder replacement?

Reverse shoulder replacement aims to improve functional movement rather than restore completely normal shoulder motion. Many patients regain the ability to lift the arm high and perform daily activities, although some limitations may remain.

How successful is reverse shoulder replacement surgery?

Most daily activities can be resumed over time. However, heavy lifting, repetitive overhead use, and high-impact activities may need to be modified to help protect the joint.

Will reverse shoulder replacement improve my quality of life?

This procedure is commonly performed to improve comfort and the ability to perform everyday activities when shoulder function is significantly limited.

How long does a reverse shoulder replacement last?

Modern implants are designed for long-term use. Longevity varies depending on factors such as activity level, bone quality, and implant positioning. Revision surgery is needed in only around 5% of cases by 10 years. The majority will last 20 years or more.

Will I need further surgery in the future?

Most patients do not require additional surgery, although revision procedures may be needed in some cases due to wear, loosening, or complications over time.

Is reverse shoulder replacement suitable for younger patients?

Age alone does not determine suitability, however very young and physically active patients will wear the joint out a little more quickly and as such a higher percentage of young patients will require repeat surgery. Reverse shoulder replacement is more commonly performed in older patients but may be considered in selected younger individuals depending on their condition.

What are the main risks of reverse shoulder replacement surgery?

Potential risks include infection, instability or dislocation, implant loosening, nerve injury, and fracture. These risks are discussed in detail prior to surgery.

What are the most common concerns patients have?

Patients commonly ask about:

Pain after surgery
Recovery time and rehabilitation
Ability to use the arm for daily activities
Implant longevity
Potential complications

How much does reverse shoulder replacement cost in Melbourne?

Costs vary depending on hospital, surgeon, prosthesis, anaesthetic, and individual insurance cover. A detailed estimate is provided prior to surgery.

Can I have surgery without private health insurance?

Yes, surgery may be performed as a self-funded procedure in the private system. A detailed cost breakdown, including expected Medicare rebates, is provided in advance.

How do I choose the right shoulder surgeon?

Consider factors such as:

Experience in shoulder surgery
Approach to patient education and communication
Access to modern planning technologies
Hospital facilities and support

What support will I need at home after surgery?

Support is helpful in the early recovery period, particularly with:

Heavier household tasks
Transport
Meal preparation

How do I prepare my home for recovery?

Arrange commonly used items within easy reach
Plan comfortable sleeping positions
Organise support for heavier tasks
Prepare meals in advance

What should I bring to hospital?

Comfortable clothing
Medications
Personal items for your stay
Phone and charger

Can implants set off airport metal detectors?

Implants may occasionally activate scanners. You can inform security if required. A letter can be provided for this.

When can I travel after surgery?

Travel is generally possible once you are comfortable and able to manage the journey. Travel plans should be discussed to ensure they align with your recovery. After the first few days there is no medical reason not to travel, including by plane. There is no additional risk of blood clots after the first few days.

If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, stiffness, or reduced movement that is affecting your daily activities or quality of life, a thorough orthopaedic assessment can help determine the cause and guide the most appropriate treatment options for your situation.