Shoulder Surgery

If you struggle with severe or ongoing shoulder pain, surgery could be the best way to repair damaged tissues and restore musculoskeletal functioning. At Belongie Orthopedics in Clearwater, Florida, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Duane Belongie, MD, and his exceptional staff offer shoulder surgery using cutting-edge technologies and techniques. Call the office to learn more or use the online booking feature today.

What is shoulder surgery?

Shoulder surgery at Belongie Orthopedics is a procedure in which Dr. Belongie removes, repairs, recontructs, or replaces tissues within your shoulder joint. You might be a candidate for shoulder surgery for a variety of reasons. 

Dr. Belongie is highly trained in shoulder surgery, including scoping, rotator cuff repair, and shoulder joint replacement. He uses Mako SmartRobotics™ for joint replacements.

Why might I need shoulder surgery?

Dr. Belongie may suggest shoulder surgery if you struggle with:

• Age-related wear-and-tear
• Arthritis joint damage
• Rotator cuff injury
• Other shoulder injuries
• Impingement
• Tendon injuries
• Frozen shoulder 
• Bone spurs
• Tendonitis
• Labral tears
• Shoulder instability
• Joint dislocation 

If conservative treatments haven’t worked to reduce pain and restore joint functioning, schedule an appointment to see Dr. Belongie for an evaluation. 

He reviews your symptoms, discusses your medical history, checks your vital signs, and completes a physical exam. You might also need heart-function testing, lab tests, X-rays, an MRI, a CT scan, or another imaging procedure.

How should I prepare for the procedure?

To get ready for shoulder surgery at Belongie Orthopedics, follow Dr. Belongie’s instructions. Stop taking certain medications if he asks you to, arrange for someone to drive you home, and avoid foods and drinks the morning of surgery, if necessary.

What happens during shoulder surgery?

Before the procedure, you receive anesthesia to numb the treatment area and help you relax or fall asleep. Dr. Belongie makes tiny incisions, removes, repairs, or replaces targeted tissues, closes the incisions, and takes you to a recovery area. Your surgery might last an hour or two, but every patient is different.

What should I expect after shoulder surgery?

It’s important to follow your post-surgery instructions after shoulder surgery. Ice your shoulder, take medicines as directed, and wear a sling if asked to. Have a friend or family member stay with you. Avoid lifting things and strenuous activity until Dr. Belongie lets you know when it’s okay. Attend physical therapy sessions and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

To learn more about shoulder surgery at Belongie Orthopedics and find out if it's right for you, call the office or use the online booking feature today.