Where in Dubai
Shoulder patients see Dr. Subhash at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira. Because a shoulder replacement means several weeks with one arm in a sling, the first visit covers practical planning too: who will drive you, who can help at home and how much time off work you may need. He tells you which hospital the operation will be in and what your insurer needs.
What is shoulder replacement surgery?
The shoulder is a ball and socket joint. In a shoulder replacement, the worn ball at the top of the arm bone and the damaged surface of the socket are replaced with metal and plastic parts. In a standard (anatomic) replacement, the new parts copy the natural shape. In a reverse replacement, the ball and socket swap places, so the large deltoid muscle can lift the arm when the rotator cuff tendons are torn beyond repair. The operation is done for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis after a large rotator cuff tear, and some badly broken shoulders that cannot be fixed.
Who it can help
- Shoulder pain that wakes you at night or makes it hard to dress, wash your hair or reach a shelf.
- Pain and stiffness that remain after physiotherapy, medicines and injections.
- Arthritis seen on X-ray, with the joint space worn away.
- A large rotator cuff tear that cannot be repaired, with weakness lifting the arm.
- A complex fracture of the top of the arm bone, or an earlier shoulder replacement that has failed.
How Dr. Subhash approaches it
Dr. Subhash lists shoulder replacement among the joint replacements he performs, both first-time operations and revision surgery. He also performs keyhole shoulder surgery, such as rotator cuff and labrum repair, and treats shoulder fractures. That range lets him judge whether a smaller operation could still help before a replacement is discussed. The right type of replacement depends on the state of your rotator cuff and bone, and he explains his choice for your shoulder before you decide.
What to expect
Consultation
He examines the shoulder, tests its strength and movement, and reviews your X-rays. A CT scan or MRI may be needed to check the bone and the rotator cuff.
Deciding together
He explains which type of replacement suits you, the risks and the usual recovery. You decide when you are ready.
Preparing
Pre-operative tests check you are fit for the anaesthetic, and insurance pre-approval is arranged. Plan for several weeks of help with one arm in a sling.
The operation
It usually takes about two hours under a general anaesthetic, often with a nerve block to numb the arm for some hours afterwards.
In hospital
A typical stay is one to three days. A physiotherapist shows you gentle exercises and how to put the sling on and off.
Follow-up
He checks the wound at about two weeks, then your movement and X-rays at planned visits over the following months.
Recovery, in general terms
Every patient is different. These are typical milestones, not a promise; your own plan comes from your consultation.
- A sling for about four to six weeks, taken off for exercises and washing.
- Gentle physiotherapy from the first days, building up in stages.
- Driving is often possible at around six weeks. Ask at your follow-up.
- No heavy lifting for about three months.
- Most daily tasks return by three to six months, and movement can keep improving for up to a year.
Risks to know about
- Infection, which may need antibiotics or further surgery.
- Stiffness or ongoing pain in some patients.
- The new joint slipping out of place (dislocation) or feeling unstable.
- Injury to a nerve near the shoulder, which is uncommon and often recovers.
- Wear or loosening of the parts over many years, which may need a revision.
When to book a visit
Book a visit if shoulder pain is stopping you sleeping or using your arm, and physiotherapy has not helped. After a shoulder replacement, call the clinic the same day for a hot, red or leaking wound, a fever, or a sudden loss of movement.
Where to book
Dr. Subhash sees patients at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, in north-east Dubai. The clinic is at Shop No. 4, next to the Grand Excelsior Hotel.
Grand Infinity Medical Center
Shop No. 4, next to Grand Excelsior Hotel, Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Questions patients ask
How much time off work will I need?
People with desk jobs often return at around six to eight weeks. Lifting, driving or manual work usually needs three months or more. Ask the clinic for a medical report for your employer.
What is the difference between a standard and a reverse shoulder replacement?
A standard replacement copies the natural joint and needs working rotator cuff tendons. A reverse replacement swaps the ball and socket, so the deltoid muscle does the lifting instead. It is used when the cuff is badly torn.
Will I be able to lift my arm above my head?
Many people can reach above shoulder height again, but how far varies. It depends on the type of replacement, the state of your muscles and how well you keep up the exercises. He gives you a realistic picture before surgery.
How long does a shoulder replacement last?
Most shoulder replacements keep working for many years, often 15 years or more. Heavy lifting and high-impact sports wear the parts faster, so he will advise which activities to avoid.
Book an appointment
The clinic confirms every booking by phone or WhatsApp.