Total Shoulder Replacement: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Total Shoulder Replacement?
An orthopedic surgeon performs a total shoulder replacement. An orthopedic surgeon is a doctor who treats bone and joint problems. Your primary care doctor may check your health before surgery. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint. The round end of your arm bone fits into a socket on your shoulder blade. In a total shoulder replacement, the surgeon replaces the worn joint surfaces. A metal ball takes the place of the round end of the arm bone. A smooth plastic socket takes the place of the worn socket.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Doctors recommend this surgery when shoulder pain is severe and other treatments have not helped enough. Severe pain in the shoulder area that limits your ability to move your arm is a sign it may help. Osteoarthritis is one cause of the shoulder pain that leads to this surgery. Other causes include rheumatoid arthritis, a badly broken bone near the shoulder, and damage from an old shoulder injury. Your surgeon may not recommend this surgery if you have very weak rotator cuff muscles that cannot be fixed during surgery. Another type of operation, called reverse total shoulder replacement, switches the positions of the ball and socket. It can be done when the rotator cuff tendons are severely damaged or there are shoulder fractures.
How to prepare
Common preparation steps include the following.
- Your surgeon may ask you to see your regular doctor about other conditions before surgery.
- Tell your surgeon about every medicine you take. You may need to stop blood thinners before surgery, including over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
- If you smoke, cut back or quit, since smoking slows healing.
- Follow instructions about eating and drinking before surgery.
What happens during it
You will receive general anesthesia, which means you are asleep. Or you may receive regional anesthesia, which numbs your arm and shoulder. The surgeon makes a cut over the shoulder joint. The round end of the upper arm bone is removed. A metal ball and stem take its place. The worn socket is smoothed, and a plastic socket is fixed with cement. The cut is closed with staples or sutures. The surgery usually takes 1 to 3 hours.
Recovery
Some people go home the same day. Others stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days. Physical therapy starts soon after surgery. Your arm rests in a sling for 2 to 6 weeks. Strengthening exercises usually start at 12 weeks. Full recovery takes about 4 to 6 months. Shoulder replacement surgery relieves pain and stiffness for most people. You should be able to resume your normal daily activities without much problem.
Risks and side effects
All surgery has risks. These include reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, blood clots, and infection. Risks from this surgery include nerve damage, dislocation of the new joint, and loosening of the parts over time. Other risks include an allergic reaction to the artificial joint, blood vessel damage, or a bone break during surgery. Your surgeon will explain the risks and complications of this surgery. Call 911 if you have shortness of breath or chest pain. Contact your surgeon or nurse if you have a fever of 101F (38.3C) or higher, redness, pain, swelling, or a yellowish discharge from the wound, or swelling in your arm.
Who performs it
An orthopedic surgeon performs the surgery.
Common questions
How long does a new shoulder joint last?
With normal use, a new shoulder joint can last at least 10 years. It lasts longer when less stress is placed on it. Avoid contact sports and heavy lifting to protect it.
When can I drive again?
You will probably not be able to drive for at least 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Do not drive while taking narcotic pain medicine. Your surgeon will tell you when driving is safe.
What should I avoid after surgery?
Do not lift anything heavier than a cup of coffee for the first 2 to 6 weeks. Avoid repeated shoulder motions and impact sports such as football. Your therapist will show you safe ways to move.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. They can check your health before surgery. They can also help you follow instructions about caring for your shoulder at home.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Shoulder replacement
- MedlinePlus - Using your shoulder after replacement surgery
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - Shoulder Joint Replacement
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
