Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Louisville, KY
Expert Total Shoulder Replacement From a Fellowship-Trained Shoulder Surgeon
When shoulder pain reaches the point where it disrupts sleep, limits everyday movement, and no longer responds to physical therapy or other conservative treatments, total shoulder replacement surgery may be the right next step. This procedure replaces the damaged surfaces of the shoulder joint with an artificial implant, restoring smooth movement and significantly reducing pain. For many patients, it represents a turning point: the beginning of a return to the activities, comfort, and independence they thought were gone for good.
Dr. Nya Duany is a fellowship-trained shoulder replacement specialist serving patients throughout Louisville, KY, and the surrounding area. Her dual fellowship training in both Total Joint Replacement and Sports Medicine gives her a comprehensive understanding of shoulder function that very few surgeons can match. She is also one of the few female orthopedic surgeons in the region, and she is deeply committed to making high-quality joint replacement care accessible to the diverse communities she serves. Whether you are an active patient with complex needs or someone seeking relief from chronic joint deterioration, Dr. Duany develops a treatment plan tailored specifically to your lifestyle and goals.
If you are wondering whether total shoulder replacement is right for you, Dr. Duany is here to walk you through your options. Use our online form to request an appointment today.
Types, Implants & Recovery for Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery
What You Need to Know About Total Shoulder Replacement
Total shoulder replacement surgery involves removing the damaged surfaces of the shoulder's ball-and-socket joint and replacing them with prosthetic components. The ball (head of the humerus) is replaced with a metal implant, and the socket (glenoid) is resurfaced with a smooth, durable plastic component. When performed by an experienced shoulder surgeon, the procedure reliably restores range of motion and eliminates the bone-on-bone pain associated with advanced shoulder arthritis and other degenerative conditions.
Dr. Duany uses CT-guided planning and robotic-assisted shoulder replacement technology during these precise procedures, giving her patients optimal postoperative function as they recover.
Anatomic vs. Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
There are two primary types of total shoulder replacement, and the right choice depends largely on the condition of your rotator cuff.
Anatomic total shoulder replacement is the traditional approach, designed for patients with intact rotator cuff function. It closely mimics the natural structure of the shoulder, preserving the ball-and-socket orientation and restoring normal shoulder biomechanics.
Reverse total shoulder replacement flips the placement of the ball and socket components. This approach is recommended for patients with rotator cuff damage, as it allows the deltoid muscle to compensate for the compromised rotator cuff. It is also commonly used for complex fractures and revision cases. Patients with rotator cuff arthropathy are frequently candidates for the reverse procedure. Dr. Duany will carefully assess your shoulder during your consultation to determine which approach is most appropriate.
Who Is a Candidate for Total Shoulder Replacement?
Total shoulder replacement is typically recommended for patients who have not found adequate relief through conservative treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections. Common conditions that may lead to shoulder replacement include severe shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, avascular necrosis, and complex shoulder fractures.
Before recommending surgery, Dr. Duany conducts a thorough evaluation that includes a physical examination, imaging review, and an in-depth conversation about your symptoms, history, and goals. She takes a conservative-first approach whenever appropriate and will only recommend surgery when it is genuinely the best path forward for you.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from total shoulder replacement is a gradual process, and Dr. Duany and her team will guide you through every step. Most patients begin a structured physical therapy program shortly after surgery to restore range of motion, then strength. Full recovery typically takes months, though many patients experience significant pain relief within the first few weeks. Dr Duany and her team will follow your progress for one year for full recovery. Dr. Duany and her team provide attentive follow-up care throughout your recovery to ensure you are healing well and moving steadily toward your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions are treated with total shoulder replacement surgery?
Total shoulder replacement surgery is most commonly performed for patients with severe shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, avascular necrosis, or certain complex fractures. These are conditions in which the joint surfaces have deteriorated to the point that conservative treatments can no longer provide meaningful relief. During your consultation, Dr. Duany will review your imaging, evaluate your symptoms, and help you determine whether surgery is the right choice for your situation.
What is the difference between anatomic and reverse total shoulder replacement?
Anatomic total shoulder replacement is designed for patients with a functioning rotator cuff; it replicates the natural structure of the shoulder joint. Reverse total shoulder replacement is used when the rotator cuff is significantly damaged, as it shifts the mechanical load to the deltoid muscle instead. The correct approach depends on the condition of your soft tissue, bone quality, and overall health. Dr. Duany will walk you through the differences during your evaluation and recommend the option best suited to your anatomy and goals.
What is recovery like after total shoulder replacement surgery?
Recovery timelines vary by patient, but most people begin physical therapy within a few weeks of surgery to rebuild range of motion, then strength. Pain relief often comes quickly; full functional recovery typically takes six months to one year. Dr. Duany provides close follow-up throughout the process to monitor your healing and adjust your rehabilitation plan as needed. Her goal is to help you return to the activities you love as safely and efficiently as possible.
How do I find a shoulder replacement surgeon near me in Louisville, KY?
If you are searching for a shoulder replacement surgeon near you in the Louisville area, Dr. Duany makes it straightforward to get started. Simply fill out our online appointment request form or call us at (502) 629-5633, and our team will follow up to confirm your visit. Dr. Duany sees patients at two Louisville locations and welcomes patients from throughout the metro area and surrounding communities. We look forward to seeing you.