Reverse total shoulder replacement is a specialized procedure for patients with severe shoulder arthritis and a damaged or deficient rotator cuff. Unlike a standard shoulder replacement, this approach reverses the normal ball-and-socket orientation. The ball is placed on the shoulder blade, and the socket is placed on the upper arm bone.
This lets the deltoid muscle compensate for the rotator cuff, helping to restore arm elevation and reduce pain. Dr. Reza Jazayeri is a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. He performs this procedure for patients throughout the Greater Los Angeles area using advanced 3D planning to match each implant to the patient’s anatomy.
What to Expect with a Reverse Shoulder Replacement?
Also known as a Reverse Shoulder ‘Arthroplasty’, is a surgical procedure designed for patients with severe shoulder arthritis in the setting of a damaged or deficient rotator cuff, complex shoulder deformities, or failed previous shoulder surgeries.
Unlike an anatomic replacement, the reverse design reverses the normal ball-and-socket orientation, placing the ball on the shoulder blade (glenoid) and the socket on the upper arm bone (humerus). This configuration allows the deltoid muscle to compensate for the deficient rotator cuff, enabling improved shoulder motion and pain relief.
The goal of the procedure is to relieve pain, restore function, and allow reliable arm elevation in patients who can no longer rely on the rotator cuff.
Dr. Jazayeri uses advanced 3D planning software Preop 3D Planning softwarej for every case to create a personalized surgical strategy. This process ensures accurate implant sizing, positioning, and alignment based on your specific anatomy.
Surgical Steps:
- An incision is made at the front or top of the shoulder.
- Damaged joint surfaces and any scar tissue are removed.
- A glenoid baseplate and ball (glenosphere) are implanted onto the shoulder blade.
- A humeral socket component is inserted into the upper arm bone.
- The components are secured and tested for proper motion and stability.
Intraoperative Tools:
Depending on the complexity of your case, Dr. Jazayeri may use navigation systems, custom implants, or Patient-Specific Instrumentation (PSI) to ensure precise execution of the preoperative plan.
Key Benefits Of Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty
Patients who undergo reverse shoulder arthroplasty often see meaningful improvements in pain and the ability to raise the arm overhead. Because the procedure relies on the deltoid instead of the rotator cuff, it can restore motion that was lost for months or years. Many people return to everyday tasks like combing hair, reaching a shelf, or putting on a shirt with less discomfort.
The surgery also provides a stable joint, which is important for patients with chronic instability. While no procedure can return a shoulder to its original state, reverse total shoulder replacement gives patients with complex problems a reliable option when standard replacement is not suitable.
Surgical Process For Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Dr. Jazayeri uses advanced 3D planning software for every case to create a personalized surgical strategy. This ensures accurate implant sizing, positioning, and alignment based on your specific anatomy. During the procedure, an incision is made at the front or top of the shoulder.
Damaged joint surfaces and scar tissue are removed. A glenoid baseplate and ball component are implanted onto the shoulder blade. A socket component is inserted into the upper arm bone.
The components are then secured and tested for proper motion and stability. Depending on the complexity of your case, Dr. Jazayeri may use navigation systems, custom implants, or patient-specific instrumentation to execute the preoperative plan with precision.
Recovery and Postoperative Expectations
All reverse shoulder replacements are typically performed as outpatient procedures, enabling same-day discharge and recovery at home. Followed by a structured rehabilitation program, focused initially on protection and passive motion, then gradual strengthening and return to function. Patients typically see significant improvement in shoulder function, especially for overhead motion, over several weeks to months.
Physical Therapy Role In Shoulder Rehabilitation
A structured rehabilitation program is essential after reverse total shoulder replacement. Therapy starts with protection and passive motion, where a therapist moves your arm while you stay relaxed. This prevents stiffness without stressing the healing tissues.
As healing progresses, you begin active-assisted exercises and then gradual strengthening. The focus is on restoring range of motion first, then building endurance and control. Dr. Jazayeri works closely with physical therapists to coordinate your recovery plan.
Following the program consistently gives you the best chance of regaining function for daily activities. Skipping or rushing therapy can slow progress and may affect the long-term result.
What to Expect with a Shoulder Replacement Surgery.
Preparing For Your Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Good preparation helps make surgery and recovery smoother. Before your procedure, Dr. Jazayeri may order lab tests to check vitamin D levels, inflammatory markers, and other factors that affect healing. This is part of his standard surgical protocol, backed by his own peer-reviewed research.
You may also begin prehabilitation exercises to strengthen supporting muscles before surgery. Arrange for help at home during the first week or two, since you will have limited use of your arm.
Discuss all medications with your care team, as some may need to be paused. Preparing meals, setting up a comfortable sleeping area, and planning for time off work are practical steps that make the early recovery period easier.
Virtual Consultations For Patients In California
Dr. Jazayeri offers virtual consultations for patients across California, including those in the Greater Los Angeles area and surrounding communities like Beverly Hills. A video visit lets you discuss your shoulder condition, review imaging, and learn whether reverse total shoulder replacement may be right for you without traveling to the office first. This option is helpful if you have a busy schedule, live farther from Los Angeles, or want an initial conversation before committing to an in-person exam.
During the virtual consultation, Dr. Jazayeri reviews your history, explains treatment options, and answers your questions. If surgery is appropriate, the next steps and preoperative planning are coordinated through his practice.
Collarbone Fractures (Clavicle Fractures):
Open Reduction Internal Fixation With a Plate and Suture Implant Animation
This animated video demonstrates the use of a plate, screws, and suture button implant to repair a break in the collarbone.
Watch: Arthrex® Distal Clavicle Fracture Repair Using Coracoid Fixation
Frequently Asked Questions
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Reverse total shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure designed for patients with severe shoulder arthritis and a damaged rotator cuff. This surgery changes the shoulder’s mechanics by placing the ball on the shoulder blade and the socket on the upper arm bone, allowing the deltoid muscle to help with arm movement.
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Good candidates for reverse total shoulder replacement typically have advanced shoulder arthritis and a rotator cuff that cannot be repaired. Patients with significant pain, limited motion, and weakness that hasn’t improved with nonsurgical treatments may benefit from this procedure.
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Recovery after reverse shoulder replacement usually takes about four to six months. Initially, you will wear a sling and focus on gentle movements, gradually progressing to strengthening exercises as your shoulder heals.
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Physical therapy is a crucial part of recovery after surgery. It starts with gentle movements to prevent stiffness and progresses to strengthening exercises to restore function and mobility.
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Yes, Dr. Jazayeri offers virtual consultations for patients across California. This allows you to discuss your shoulder condition and explore treatment options without needing to travel to the office.
Why Choose Dr. Jazayeri For Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement?
Choosing the right surgeon for your reverse total shoulder replacement is crucial. Dr. Reza Jazayeri is a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 15 years of experience.
He specializes in shoulder surgeries and has a deep knowledge of complex shoulder issues. His training at NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases and the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic ensures that you receive excellent care.
Dr. Jazayeri uses advanced 3D planning for every surgery. This personalized approach helps ensure the best fit for your unique anatomy.
He also emphasizes a non-surgical-first approach, exploring all options before recommending surgery. With a focus on recovery, he integrates nutritional optimization and personalized rehabilitation protocols to support your healing process.
Meet Dr. Reza Jazayeri
Dr. Reza Jazayeri specializes in sports medicine with expertise in shoulder, knee, and elbow injuries. A Southern California native, Dr. Jazayeri combines an engineering background with elite surgical training, completing his orthopedic surgery residency at the nationally ranked NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases and a sports medicine fellowship at the renowned Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic.
After more than 15 years caring for patients within the Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Dr. Jazayeri joined DOCS Health to expand a practice focused on personalized orthopedic and sports medicine care and surgical excellence. As Director of Longevity at DOCS Health, he leads the development and implementation of optimization protocols and regenerative medicine strategies designed to improve long-term musculoskeletal health and extend healthspan.
His published work includes a 2026 coauthored review of nutritional optimization in spine surgery in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. View Dr. Jazayeri’s research publications and training.
Dr. Jazayeri is one of the best surgeons I’ve ever had. Last year I fell on my left shoulder and damaged it so badly that the only option was a total reverse shoulder replacement. After consulting with Dr. Jazayeri, he explained the procedure and also the follow-up issues. He didn’t sugar coat anything but said he was confident he could take away my pain and restore almost all of my shoulder motion. He delivered exactly as he had promised. I also took his advice and did the amino acid regimen as part of my recovery. I’m so lucky to have had him as my surgeon for this procedure. Thank you, Dr. Jazayeri, so much.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Jazayeri Today
If shoulder pain and limited motion are keeping you from the activities you enjoy, reverse total shoulder replacement may offer a path forward. Dr. Reza Jazayeri is a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 15 years of experience treating patients in the Greater Los Angeles area. He brings advanced training from NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases and the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic to every case.
His approach combines precise surgical technique with nutritional optimization and personalized recovery protocols. To learn more about reverse total shoulder replacement and whether it is right for you, schedule a consultation at his Los Angeles or Westlake Village office. Virtual visits are also available for patients throughout California.
Medically reviewed by Reza Jazayeri, M.D. on
