SHOULDER REPLACEMENT SURGERY

Expert Shoulder Arthroplasty in Northern Michigan

 

Overview

Shoulder replacement surgery (also called shoulder arthroplasty) is a highly effective treatment for advanced shoulder arthritis, irreparable rotator cuff tears, and complex shoulder injuries. Patients typically experience significant pain relief, improved motion, and restored function—often allowing them to return to activities they once thought were impossible.

Dr. Dubiel is a Mayo Clinic–fellowship trained and board certified shoulder and elbow specialist with expertise in both anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement, including complex and revision cases. He performs shoulder arthroplasty at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He completes 200+ replacements annually.

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Types of Shoulder Replacement

Modern shoulder arthroplasty is tailored to each patient’s anatomy, diagnosis, and goals. Dr. Dubiel performs all major types:

 

1. Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement

Used for:

  • Shoulder arthritis

  • Intact rotator cuff

  • Patients with stiffness and grinding pain

Benefits:

  • Restores natural joint mechanics

  • Excellent long-term outcomes

  • Reliable pain relief

2. Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Used for:

  • Irreparable rotator cuff tears

  • Rotator cuff arthropathy

  • Complex arthritis

  • Severe stiffness or weakness

  • Failed prior surgery

Benefits:

  • Powerful improvement in motion

  • Strong pain relief

  • Excellent function even without a rotator cuff

3. Revision Shoulder Replacement

For patients who:

  • Had a previous shoulder replacement that wore out

  • Have instability, loosening, or persistent pain

  • Need correction of alignment or bone loss

Dr. Dubiel evaluates each situation carefully and uses advanced techniques to restore function and comfort.

 

Who Is a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for shoulder replacement if you have:

  • Severe shoulder pain that limits sleep or daily activities

  • Difficulty lifting the arm overhead

  • Grinding or catching sensations

  • Weakness due to chronic rotator cuff tear

  • X-ray evidence of advanced arthritis

  • Failure of injections, therapy, or medications

If you are unsure whether replacement or arthroscopy is best, Dr. Dubiel will help determine the right approach based on imaging, exam, and your goals.

What to Expect from Surgery

Pain Relief

Most patients experience dramatic improvement in pain—especially nighttime pain—within the first few weeks.

Range of Motion

Many regain the ability to reach overhead, behind the head, or across the body comfortably.

Strength & Function

Strength gradually improves with healing and physical therapy, allowing return to:

  • Work

  • Home activities

  • Fishing

  • Mountain biking

  • Hunting

  • Recreation with family

Longevity of Implants

Modern shoulder replacements often last 15–20+ years, depending on age, activity level, and implant type.

Recovery Timeline

While individual recovery varies, most patients can expect:

  • 0–3 weeks: Sling use for comfort; early motion begins

  • 3–6 weeks: Improved comfort, gentle stretching, wean sling

  • 6–12 weeks: Noticeable increase in function

  • 3–6 months: Strength returns; most daily tasks feel natural

  • 6–12 months: Continued gains, return to higher-level activities

Why Choose Dr. Dubiel for Shoulder Replacement?

  • Mayo Clinic–trained shoulder & elbow specialist

  • Expertise in anatomic, reverse, and revision arthroplasty

  • Member of American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES)

  • Extensive experience with complex and high-demand patients

  • Publishes and teaches on shoulder replacement techniques

  • Focused practice dedicated entirely to shoulder and elbow care

  • Combines engineering background with precision surgical technique

Patients travel from across Northern Michigan for expert shoulder care.

Second Opinions

If you have been told you may need shoulder surgery—or if previous treatments haven’t helped—Dr. Dubiel is happy to provide a second opinion, review your imaging, and discuss the best options for you.

Request an Appointment

To learn whether you are a candidate for shoulder replacement or shoulder arthroscopy, please complete the request form.
Include your phone number and email so our team can contact you.

HIPAA-Safe Reminder

Please do not submit confidential medical information through the form. A member of our team will contact you directly to discuss your condition in detail.