Shoulder Reconstruction
Rebuilding a shoulder that has lost its stability or its cuff — from anchor-suture repair to complex revision and instability surgery.
What it involves
Depending on what the exam and imaging show, this can mean anchor repair of the rotator cuff, labral repair for instability, tendon transfer, or reconstruction of the joint's restraining structures. Most of it is done arthroscopically.
Who it helps
- +Full-thickness rotator cuff tears
- +Recurrent dislocation or a shoulder that gives way
- +Labral injuries in throwing and overhead athletes
- +Failed prior shoulder surgery
Recovery
A sling for several weeks, then a phased rehabilitation program. Return to overhead sports is usually measured in months, not weeks.
In the office
Every plan is built around what you want to get back to — work, sport, or sleeping through the night.
Common questions
Do you handle revision surgery?+
Yes — failed rotator cuff repairs, recurrent instability, and painful or stiff prior reconstructions are a large part of what I do, including for patients traveling in for a second opinion.
Is it open surgery?+
Most of it is arthroscopic. Some reconstructions, tendon transfers and replacements need an open approach, and I will tell you clearly which yours is and why.
How long is the sling?+
For cuff and labral repairs, usually four to six weeks, with gentle motion starting early and strengthening staged after the repair has had time to hold.
When can I get back to tennis or golf?+
Golf chipping and putting often return around three months, full swings and serving nearer six. Those are typical ranges, not promises — your repair and your tissue set the pace.
Not sure this is your path?
Two quick questions will point you to a sensible starting point.
Other treatments
PRP
A concentrate made from your own blood, injected into an irritated tendon, ligament or joint to support the body's own healing response.
Non-surgicalMicrofat
A small amount of your own fat tissue, gently processed and placed into a painful joint to cushion and calm irritated surfaces.
Non-surgicalBMAC
Cells drawn from your own bone marrow, concentrated and delivered to a damaged joint or tendon to support repair.
Non-surgicalShockwave
Non-invasive acoustic energy directed at a painful tendon or bone to stimulate blood flow and reduce chronic pain.
Non-surgicalLaser therapy
High-power therapeutic laser — photobiomodulation — that reaches deep tissue to calm inflammation, ease pain and support repair. No needles, no anesthetic, no downtime.
Non-surgicalConservative care
The first line of treatment for most joint and tendon problems: activity modification, anti-inflammatories or acetaminophen, ice, bracing or a cane when helpful, and physician-directed physical therapy.
SurgicalArthroscopy
Small-incision joint surgery using a camera and precise instruments — for repair work that biologics and therapy cannot reach.
Non-surgical & surgicalShoulder arthritis
A worn shoulder joint doesn't have to mean giving up what you love. Care ranges from therapy and biologic injections to total shoulder replacement when the joint is truly worn out.
Non-surgical & surgicalKnee cartilage care
A joint-preserving approach to knee cartilage problems, from therapy and orthobiologics to arthroscopic repair or cartilage restoration when needed.
Non-surgicalSports medicine & longevity
Care for active adults who want to stay in the game, protect their joints and perform at their best — from injury prevention to recovery and long-term resilience.
General information only — not medical advice. Your plan is confirmed in person after an exam and imaging review.