Double Shoulder Replacement Surgery | Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement | Joint Replacement

I Have Severe Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder and am Considering a Double Shoulder Replacement. What is Post-Op Like?

Dear Dr. Millett,

I am 72 years old and have severe osteoarthritis in both of my shoulders from years of heavy lifting, golfing, etc. I’m considering a double shoulder replacement surgery and have spent quite a bit of time researching my options. Can you tell me what my recovery time will be like once the joint replacement surgery is completed, how I will feel after, and how long the effects of the surgery will last?

Best,
Teresa

Hi Teresa,

I use an approach known as an anatomic total shoulder replacement surgery. This shoulder replacement surgery is a joint replacement procedure most commonly performed on patients suffering from more advanced arthritic conditions — such as yourself. Most of my patients will feel dramatic improvement, sometimes occurring almost immediately postoperatively. Most patients regain complete use of their arms with the ability to go back to all pre-surgery activities after about three to four months, although most patients find that they are able to lift their arms to about shoulder level within the first few weeks. Patients are allowed as well as encouraged to begin using their shoulders for light activities almost immediately. In order for shoulder replacement surgery to be effective and successful, each patient should adhere to a strict rehabilitation program. The program will consist of strengthening movies, range of motion activities and stretching.

In almost all cases, patients who have double shoulder replacement surgery end up pain-free and typically will completely regain their normal shoulder motion and function. Many patients have bilateral disease (both sides right and left), and I have performed a number of bilateral (double) shoulder replacement surgeries. Typically we do one side first (either the dominant arm or the more painful side) and then come back anywhere from six weeks to four months to do the other side. There is a great patient story on my website about a patient who had a “double shoulder replacement.” Feel free to read more about his experience: Double Shoulder Replacement Surgery Patient.

More information on joint replacement procedures including the anatomic total shoulder replacement can be found on my website.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

What is Post-Op Like for Double Shoulder Replacement?

I Have Severe Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder and am Considering a Double Shoulder Replacement. What is Post-Op Like?

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD

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