Dr Philippe Collin

Orthopaedic surgeon, shoulder specialist — Paris

Former President of the SECEC · ranked best shoulder surgeon in Paris (Le Point) · 20,000+ shoulders operated · 100+ scientific publications

Plan your visitDedicated international patient care

Shoulder replacement (shoulder arthroplasty) replaces a worn or destroyed joint to restore a mobile, pain-free shoulder. It is one of Dr Philippe Collin's core areas of excellence — shoulder specialist in Paris — who performs these procedures using augmented-reality assisted surgery. Anatomic or reverse, when, how and with what recovery? Here is an overview.

What is a shoulder replacement?

A shoulder replacement replaces the damaged joint surfaces (the head of the humerus and sometimes the glenoid of the shoulder blade) with implants. The goal is to remove the pain and restore mobility. These procedures have advanced enormously and now deliver excellent, durable functional results.

Anatomic or reverse shoulder replacement?

There are two main families of implants, chosen according to the state of the joint and above all of the rotator cuff tendons:

• The anatomic prosthesis reproduces the normal anatomy of the shoulder. It is indicated when the rotator cuff is intact, typically in shoulder osteoarthritis.
• The reverse prosthesis reverses the mechanics of the joint so that the deltoid muscle drives the movement. It is indicated when the rotator cuff is torn or deficient (cuff-tear arthropathy, massive irreparable tear, certain fractures).

What are the indications?

A shoulder replacement is considered mainly for painful, disabling shoulder osteoarthritis, a massive irreparable rotator cuff tear, certain complex fractures of the upper humerus, or after failure of well-conducted non-surgical treatment. The decision is based on precise imaging (X-rays, CT scan, sometimes MRI) and on the impact on daily life.

How is the operation performed?

The procedure is carried out under anaesthesia with a short hospital stay. Dr Collin relies on 3D planning and augmented-reality assisted surgery, which position the implants with great precision and optimise the outcome. Each prosthesis is tailored to the individual patient's anatomy.

How long is recovery?

The arm is protected in a sling for a few weeks, after which rehabilitation starts quickly. Everyday activities generally resume around two months, with full recovery over several months. The vast majority of patients regain a pain-free, functional shoulder. To learn more, see our dedicated page on shoulder replacement.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a shoulder replacement last?
Modern implants are very durable: the large majority are still working at 10 years and beyond. Longevity depends on the type of prosthesis, activity level and bone quality.

Anatomic or reverse: who decides?
The choice depends on the state of the rotator cuff and the joint. It is determined by the surgeon after the imaging work-up.

Is shoulder replacement painful?
Post-operative pain is well controlled. The very purpose of the prosthesis is to remove the chronic pain caused by joint wear.

Can I play sport after a shoulder replacement?
Yes — most patients return to suitable activities (swimming, golf, walking…) after rehabilitation. The details are agreed with the surgeon.

Dr Philippe Collin welcomes international patients in Paris, with coordination in Arabic, English and French. Discover the international patient pathway.