Shoulder Replacement

UI Health Care orthopedic surgeons have performed shoulder replacement surgery for decades.  

They've always been on the leading edge of advancements that make surgery easier on you and result in better, longer-lasting outcomes. 

Shoulder replacement surgery is performed in the hospital while you're asleep under general anesthesia.  

Most shoulder replacement procedures take two to three hours, but it could take longer if you have a complex shoulder problem.  

UI Health Care offers outpatient shoulder replacement, which means you could potentially leave the hospital on the same day as your surgery. Alternatively, some patients may stay in the hospital one to two nights after the procedure. We partner with our anesthesia team to ensure your pain is well controlled when you go home after surgery. 

After your surgery 

• A physical therapist will work with you in the hospital after your surgery. This starts your process of getting back to normal movement right away. You'll get instructions for continuing your exercises at home.
• You'll go home with your arm in a sling to limit your shoulder movement while you heal. You'll wear it for two to six weeks, depending on the surgery performed. But you can take it off to bathe, do your physical therapy exercises, and perform many other simple tasks with your arm and hand.
• Two weeks after surgery, you'll also begin seeing a physical therapist for additional exercises. These visits will continue for six to eight weeks.
• Ten to 14 days after your surgery, you may see your surgeon for a follow-up visit to check your progress. You'll have another visit about a month after that. Then you’ll continue to see your surgeon as needed to ensure you are on the right track and achieving appropriate improvements.  
• You should be able to drive and return to light work activities after four to six weeks.