Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Understanding the Difference: Anatomic vs Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
Shoulder arthritis and rotator cuff conditions can cause disabling pain and stiffness, severely impacting daily life. When non-operative options no longer provide relief, shoulder replacement surgery can restore function, reduce pain, and dramatically improve quality of life.
At Glenelg Orthopaedics, Dr Gavin Nimon performs both Anatomic and Reverse Total Shoulder Replacements, using advanced technology ( 3D printing and patient specific guides) and precision techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes.
What is a shoulder replacement?
A shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing the damaged parts of the shoulder joint and replacing them with artificial components (an anatomic shoulder replacement involves a metal ball and a plastic socket). The aim is to restore smooth movement and reduce pain. Unlike procedures that repair or reconstruct tendons and ligaments (such as a rotator cuff repair or labral reconstruction), a shoulder replacement addresses the worn-out joint surfaces themselves. It’s similar to a total hip replacement or total knee replacement.
When might you need a shoulder replacement?
You may consider a shoulder replacement if you have:
- Arthritis
- A fractured (Broken humerus) shoulder
- Large, irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Anatomic Shoulder Replacement
An anatomic shoulder replacement restores the normal structure of the shoulder. It involves replacing the ball of the humerus and lining the socket with a smooth prosthetic surface, closely mimicking natural joint mechanics. It requires the Rotator Cuff muscles to be intact.
Ideal for patients with:
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Primary osteoarthritis (wear and tear)
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Rheumatoid or inflammatory arthritis
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Post-traumatic arthritis
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An intact or repairable rotator cuff
This procedure allows the rotator cuff muscles to continue functioning normally, restoring more natural movement and strength.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
If the tendons supporting your shoulder have been significantly damaged by a bad rotator cuff tear, then we’ll recommend a reverse shoulder replacement.
In this procedure, the mechanics of the shoulder joint are reversed: a metal ball is placed on the shoulder blade and a socket on the top of the arm bone. This design enables the deltoid muscle to power the arm, making it ideal for patients with massive or irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Recommended for:
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Rotator cuff arthropathy ( Arthritis after large rotator cuff tears)
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Chronic shoulder dislocations with arthritis
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Severe fractures in older patients
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Failed previous shoulder surgeries
It is highly effective for improving overhead function and pain relief when the rotator cuff can no longer provide stability.
Question?
Are the protocols different for reverse or anatomic shoulder replacements?
No, they are not different, both are shoulder replacements. They are both done through the same incision, and the recovery is the same.
Is it much harder than a Rotator Cuff Repair?
No. A rotator cuff repair can be done arthroscopically, but generally the recovery is not much different than a shoulder replacement, and in fact the requirement for a sling is less ( only 4 weeks ) during the day for a shoulder replacement.
Recovery After Shoulder Replacement
Recovery is carefully managed with:
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Hospital stay: 1–2 nights
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Sling use: for 4 to 6 weeks post-operatively
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Rehabilitation: early movement exercises begin shortly after surgery
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Return to daily life: gradual return to normal function over 6 weeks- 3 months
Every patient receives a tailored rehab plan, and Dr Nimon works closely with physiotherapists to ensure safe, steady recovery.
Advanced Technology:
3D CT Planning & Patient-Specific Guides
To improve the accuracy and individualisation of surgery, Dr Nimon uses:
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Pre-operative CT scanning of the shoulder
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3D digital modelling to visualise each patient’s anatomy in detail
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3D-printed surgical guides to assist with optimal placement of implants
These customised tools enable precise positioning of prosthetic components, which is critical for both joint stability and long-term function. This approach reduces the chance of implant malalignment and improves surgical outcomes.
Commitment to Best Practice:
Supporting the Joint Registry
Dr Nimon is a strong advocate for transparency and evidence-based care. He contributes all shoulder replacement data to the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR) — a world-leading database that monitors joint replacement outcomes across Australia.
This registry:
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Tracks the performance of implants over time
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Helps identify and remove poorly performing designs
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Improves patient outcomes through national-level data
By participating in the registry, Dr Nimon supports the continuous improvement of orthopaedic care across Australia. See the Interview with Prof Richard Page on Aussie Med Ed about the registry
Why Choose Dr Gavin Nimon?
🩺 Over 23 years of experience in Shoulder and Upper limb surgery
🦴 Head of Shoulder Surgery at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital
🌍 Trained in the Australia, and further in UK and Europe in advanced shoulder techniques
📈 Contributor to the AOANJRR – committed to quality and accountability
🖐️ Specialises in both minimally invasive arthroscopy and complex replacements
🎙️ Host of the Aussie Med Ed podcast, where medical topics are explored with experts across Australia
You’re not just receiving care — you’re partnering with a trusted surgeon focused on precision, safety, and long-term outcomes.
