Shoulder Surgery in Spain – Expert Treatment for Lasting Relief
Restore your mobility and live pain-free again.
Experience advanced shoulder surgery in Spain with one of Europe’s leading orthopedic teams. At Ribera Health Group, we combine surgical precision, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate care to deliver safe, effective, and personalized treatment—so you can regain strength, flexibility, and confidence in your daily life.
Vertel ons over uw zaak
Laat ons weten waarmee we je kunnen helpen en we nemen binnenkort contact met je op over je zaak.
Restore your mobility and live pain-free again.
Experience advanced shoulder surgery in Spain with one of Europe’s leading orthopedic teams. At Ribera Health Group, we combine surgical precision, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate care to deliver safe, effective, and personalized treatment—so you can regain strength, flexibility, and confidence in your daily life.
Vertel ons over uw zaak
Laat ons weten waarmee we je kunnen helpen en we nemen binnenkort contact met je op over je zaak.
You may be a candidate if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain that limits your movement or sleep.
- Difficulty lifting your arm or performing everyday tasks.
- Recurrent shoulder dislocations or chronic instability.
- Degenerative joint disease that hasn’t responded to physiotherapy or medication.
Our surgeons evaluate every case individually, considering your age, activity level, and overall health. Whether you are an athlete seeking to return to performance or a patient wishing to restore daily comfort, we design a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
Most procedures are performed under regional and general anesthesia for maximum comfort.
Depending on your diagnosis, the surgery may include:
- Shoulder arthroscopy: A minimally invasive technique using small incisions to repair tendons or remove damaged tissue.
- Rotator cuff repair: Reconstruction of torn tendons to restore strength and motion.
- Total or reverse shoulder replacement: Replacement of the joint with a biocompatible prosthesis for severe arthritis or irreparable damage.
- Instability repair: Tightening or reconstructing the shoulder capsule to prevent future dislocations.
Using navigation systems and high-definition arthroscopy, our specialists ensure precise execution and minimize tissue trauma. Most patients leave the hospital within 24–48 hours.
Hersteltijd en succespercentages
Hersteltijd: Rehabilitation begins shortly after surgery. Most patients regain functional movement within 4-6 weeks and return to daily activities in 2-3 months, depending on the procedure. Our physiotherapy team will design a customized recovery plan and provide online follow-up for international patients.
Slagingspercentages: Ribera’s shoulder surgery program achieves a 97% functional recovery rate, with high patient satisfaction and low complication rates. Patients often experience dramatic pain reduction and improved range of motion within weeks.
Voordelen ten opzichte van andere ziekenhuizen
- Expertise in arthroscopic and prosthetic shoulder surgery performed by internationally recognized surgeons.
- Use of 3D surgical planning and minimally invasive techniques for faster healing.
- Comprehensive rehabilitation programs supervised by specialized physiotherapists.
- Full international patient service, including travel coordination, translation, and tele-rehabilitation.
- Proven excellence within the Ribera Health Group, one of Europe’s most innovative hospital networks.
Medische voorbereiding vóór de procedure
- Before surgery, you’ll undergo a full orthopedic evaluation, including X-rays, MRI or CT scans, and blood tests. These help your surgical team understand the exact condition of your shoulder — whether it’s a rotator cuff tear, arthritis, or instability — and plan the most effective approach, from arthroscopy to shoulder replacement.
Vasten
- Do not eat or drink anything (including water, gum, or candy) after midnight the night before your surgery. You may take approved medications with a small sip of water, as instructed by your doctor.
Medications and health conditions
- Some medications, such as blood thinners or diabetes treatments, may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery. Please provide your doctor with a complete list of current medications and any allergies or chronic health conditions.
Roken en alcohol
- Avoid smoking and alcohol for several days before surgery, as they can slow tissue healing and increase the risk of complications.
Physical Preparation
- Your surgeon may recommend light shoulder and posture exercises before the procedure to improve postoperative recovery. Patients are also encouraged to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated in the weeks leading up to surgery.
Logistiek en comfort
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that opens at the front, and remove jewelry, lotions, and deodorants on the day of surgery. If you’re traveling from abroad, Ribera’s international team will assist with hotel and transport arrangements. You’ll need someone to accompany you or transportation back to your accommodation after discharge.
Toestemming en vragen bevestigen
- Before surgery, you’ll review and sign a consent form and receive clear written and verbal instructions. This is a good opportunity to discuss the type of anesthesia, expected recovery time, and any last-minute questions you may have.
Postoperatieve ziekenhuiszorg
- Most shoulder surgeries are performed under general anesthesia with regional nerve block for comfort. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, you’ll stay in the hospital for one to three days. Your shoulder will be supported in a sling or immobilizer, and you’ll begin gentle movement exercises under supervision.
Medicijnen
- You’ll receive pain-relief and anti-inflammatory medication, sometimes combined with antibiotics to prevent infection. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and not to stop medications prematurely..
Wound Care ans Hygiene
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Avoid submerging the wound in water until the sutures are removed. Showers are usually allowed after a few days with protective dressing. Do not apply creams or ointments unless prescribed.
Lichamelijke activiteit
- Light daily activities can usually resume after 7–10 days, depending on your procedure. You’ll start physiotherapy to gradually restore movement and strength. Avoid lifting, pushing, or overhead activities for at least six weeks, unless otherwise indicated by your surgeon.
Dieet en levensstijl
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins C and D to promote bone and tissue healing. Stay well hydrated, and continue to avoid alcohol and tobacco during the recovery phase.
Waarschuwingssignalen herkennen
Contact your doctor or care coordinator immediately if you experience:
- Sudden or intense shoulder pain not relieved by medication
- Significant swelling or redness around the incision
- Fever or chills
- Fluid leakage, pus, or foul odor from the surgical site
- Numbness or loss of movement in the arm or hand
Vervolgafspraken
- Your first follow-up visit will typically take place within a week of surgery. Additional reviews and imaging (such as X-rays) will be scheduled to monitor healing. If you are an international patient, these can be arranged virtually through our telemedicine platform.
Shoulder surgery at Ribera Health Group helps patients regain independence, confidence, and quality of life. Our patients often describe their recovery as transformative—free from chronic pain and able to return to sports, work, and daily activities.
Restored Mobility and Strength
Move your arm freely and perform tasks without discomfort.
Pain Relief and Function
Long-lasting improvement that reduces or eliminates the need for pain medication.
Minimaal invasieve technieken
Faster healing, fewer scars, and lower risk of complications.
Comprehensive Support
From pre-operative planning to post-operative rehabilitation, our international team supports you every step of the way.
Expertise van wereldklasse
Our orthopedic surgeons are leaders in shoulder reconstruction, combining clinical excellence with compassionate care.
Choosing Ribera Care International for your shoulder surgery in Spain means trusting a team dedicated to restoring your mobility and well-being with the highest international standards of safety and precision.
Preventieve voordelen
Een heupprothese herstelt niet alleen de mobiliteit, maar voorkomt ook verdere gewrichtsschade, vermindert het risico op vallen en ontlast de omliggende gewrichten.
Geschikt voor een breed scala aan patiënten
Een heupprothese-operatie is een veilige en effectieve oplossing voor mensen die lijden aan ernstige artritis, verslechtering van gewrichten of heupfracturen en biedt een nieuwe kans op leven.
Kiezen voor Ribera Health Group voor uw heupprothese betekent kiezen voor deskundige zorg, faciliteiten van wereldklasse en persoonlijke behandelplannen op maat van uw behoeften. Zet de eerste stap naar een pijnvrije, actieve toekomst met ons gespecialiseerde orthopedische team.
What is shoulder surgery and when is it necessary?
Shoulder surgery is performed to repair or replace damaged structures within the joint, usually when non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy or injections are no longer effective. It’s most commonly indicated for rotator cuff tears, arthritis, shoulder instability, or fractures that affect mobility and cause persistent pain.
What types of shoulder surgery are most common?
The most frequent procedures include arthroscopic tendon repair, rotator cuff reconstruction, labrum stabilization, and total or reverse shoulder replacement. Each technique is chosen based on the patient’s diagnosis, activity level, and degree of tissue damage.
What is the difference between total and reverse shoulder replacement?
In a total shoulder replacement, the ball-and-socket anatomy of the joint is reproduced using biocompatible implants, ideal when the rotator cuff is intact. In a reverse shoulder replacement, the positions are switched to allow other muscles—mainly the deltoid—to move the arm when the rotator cuff is severely damaged.
How long does shoulder surgery take?
The operation typically lasts between one and two hours, depending on its complexity. Arthroscopic procedures are usually shorter, while joint replacements may take slightly longer due to implant placement and reconstruction steps.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Shoulder surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia combined with a regional nerve block, which numbs the arm for 12–24 hours after the procedure. This combination provides comfort during surgery and minimizes pain during the first stage of recovery.
How soon can I start moving my shoulder after surgery?
Gentle passive movements often begin within the first few days, guided by a physiotherapist. Active movement is gradually introduced after two to three weeks, depending on the procedure and the surgeon’s recommendations. Early, supervised motion is key to preventing stiffness.
How long does recovery take after shoulder surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the technique: around 6–8 weeks for arthroscopic repairs and 3–6 months for prosthetic replacements. During this period, physiotherapy is crucial to restore strength, stability, and full range of motion.
Will I need to wear a sling after surgery?
Yes. A shoulder sling or immobilizer is typically used for the first 2–4 weeks to protect the repair and allow tissues to heal. Your surgeon will specify how long you should keep it on and when to remove it for exercises.
What are the potential risks or complications?
Although shoulder surgery is safe and highly effective, rare complications can include infection, stiffness, nerve irritation, or tendon re-tear. These risks are minimized through sterile technique, careful surgical planning, and close postoperative monitoring.
When can I return to sports or physical activity?
Light activities and office work can often resume within 4–6 weeks. Sports or heavy physical work typically require 3–6 months, depending on healing and rehabilitation progress. Patients who follow their physiotherapy plan usually regain full function and return to sports safely.
About Shoulder Surgery
Shoulder surgery encompasses a range of procedures designed to restore function, reduce pain, and improve joint stability. At Ribera, our orthopedic specialists perform both minimally invasive arthroscopic repairs and complex joint replacements, depending on each patient’s condition.
Common indications include rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability or dislocations, arthritis, and fractures. Using advanced imaging and 3D planning systems, we tailor each procedure to the patient’s anatomy and activity goals—achieving exceptional precision and faster recovery.
You may be a candidate if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain that limits your movement or sleep.
- Difficulty lifting your arm or performing everyday tasks.
- Recurrent shoulder dislocations or chronic instability.
- Degenerative joint disease that hasn’t responded to physiotherapy or medication.
Our surgeons evaluate every case individually, considering your age, activity level, and overall health. Whether you are an athlete seeking to return to performance or a patient wishing to restore daily comfort, we design a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
Most procedures are performed under regional and general anesthesia for maximum comfort.
Depending on your diagnosis, the surgery may include:
- Shoulder arthroscopy: A minimally invasive technique using small incisions to repair tendons or remove damaged tissue.
- Rotator cuff repair: Reconstruction of torn tendons to restore strength and motion.
- Total or reverse shoulder replacement: Replacement of the joint with a biocompatible prosthesis for severe arthritis or irreparable damage.
- Instability repair: Tightening or reconstructing the shoulder capsule to prevent future dislocations.
Using navigation systems and high-definition arthroscopy, our specialists ensure precise execution and minimize tissue trauma. Most patients leave the hospital within 24–48 hours.
Relevante gegevens
Hersteltijd en succespercentages
Hersteltijd: Rehabilitation begins shortly after surgery. Most patients regain functional movement within 4-6 weeks and return to daily activities in 2-3 months, depending on the procedure. Our physiotherapy team will design a customized recovery plan and provide online follow-up for international patients.
Slagingspercentages: Ribera’s shoulder surgery program achieves a 97% functional recovery rate, with high patient satisfaction and low complication rates. Patients often experience dramatic pain reduction and improved range of motion within weeks.
Voordelen ten opzichte van andere ziekenhuizen
- Expertise in arthroscopic and prosthetic shoulder surgery performed by internationally recognized surgeons.
- Use of 3D surgical planning and minimally invasive techniques for faster healing.
- Comprehensive rehabilitation programs supervised by specialized physiotherapists.
- Full international patient service, including travel coordination, translation, and tele-rehabilitation.
- Proven excellence within the Ribera Health Group, one of Europe’s most innovative hospital networks.
Voor- en nazorg
Medische voorbereiding vóór de procedure
- Before surgery, you’ll undergo a full orthopedic evaluation, including X-rays, MRI or CT scans, and blood tests. These help your surgical team understand the exact condition of your shoulder — whether it’s a rotator cuff tear, arthritis, or instability — and plan the most effective approach, from arthroscopy to shoulder replacement.
Vasten
- Do not eat or drink anything (including water, gum, or candy) after midnight the night before your surgery. You may take approved medications with a small sip of water, as instructed by your doctor.
Medications and health conditions
- Some medications, such as blood thinners or diabetes treatments, may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery. Please provide your doctor with a complete list of current medications and any allergies or chronic health conditions.
Roken en alcohol
- Avoid smoking and alcohol for several days before surgery, as they can slow tissue healing and increase the risk of complications.
Physical Preparation
- Your surgeon may recommend light shoulder and posture exercises before the procedure to improve postoperative recovery. Patients are also encouraged to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated in the weeks leading up to surgery.
Logistiek en comfort
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that opens at the front, and remove jewelry, lotions, and deodorants on the day of surgery. If you’re traveling from abroad, Ribera’s international team will assist with hotel and transport arrangements. You’ll need someone to accompany you or transportation back to your accommodation after discharge.
Toestemming en vragen bevestigen
- Before surgery, you’ll review and sign a consent form and receive clear written and verbal instructions. This is a good opportunity to discuss the type of anesthesia, expected recovery time, and any last-minute questions you may have.
Postoperatieve ziekenhuiszorg
- Most shoulder surgeries are performed under general anesthesia with regional nerve block for comfort. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, you’ll stay in the hospital for one to three days. Your shoulder will be supported in a sling or immobilizer, and you’ll begin gentle movement exercises under supervision.
Medicijnen
- You’ll receive pain-relief and anti-inflammatory medication, sometimes combined with antibiotics to prevent infection. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and not to stop medications prematurely..
Wound Care ans Hygiene
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Avoid submerging the wound in water until the sutures are removed. Showers are usually allowed after a few days with protective dressing. Do not apply creams or ointments unless prescribed.
Lichamelijke activiteit
- Light daily activities can usually resume after 7–10 days, depending on your procedure. You’ll start physiotherapy to gradually restore movement and strength. Avoid lifting, pushing, or overhead activities for at least six weeks, unless otherwise indicated by your surgeon.
Dieet en levensstijl
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins C and D to promote bone and tissue healing. Stay well hydrated, and continue to avoid alcohol and tobacco during the recovery phase.
Waarschuwingssignalen herkennen
Contact your doctor or care coordinator immediately if you experience:
- Sudden or intense shoulder pain not relieved by medication
- Significant swelling or redness around the incision
- Fever or chills
- Fluid leakage, pus, or foul odor from the surgical site
- Numbness or loss of movement in the arm or hand
Vervolgafspraken
- Your first follow-up visit will typically take place within a week of surgery. Additional reviews and imaging (such as X-rays) will be scheduled to monitor healing. If you are an international patient, these can be arranged virtually through our telemedicine platform.
Voordelen
Shoulder surgery at Ribera Health Group helps patients regain independence, confidence, and quality of life. Our patients often describe their recovery as transformative—free from chronic pain and able to return to sports, work, and daily activities.
Restored Mobility and Strength
Move your arm freely and perform tasks without discomfort.
Pain Relief and Function
Long-lasting improvement that reduces or eliminates the need for pain medication.
Minimaal invasieve technieken
Faster healing, fewer scars, and lower risk of complications.
Comprehensive Support
From pre-operative planning to post-operative rehabilitation, our international team supports you every step of the way.
Expertise van wereldklasse
Our orthopedic surgeons are leaders in shoulder reconstruction, combining clinical excellence with compassionate care.
Choosing Ribera Care International for your shoulder surgery in Spain means trusting a team dedicated to restoring your mobility and well-being with the highest international standards of safety and precision.
Preventieve voordelen
Een heupprothese herstelt niet alleen de mobiliteit, maar voorkomt ook verdere gewrichtsschade, vermindert het risico op vallen en ontlast de omliggende gewrichten.
Geschikt voor een breed scala aan patiënten
Een heupprothese-operatie is een veilige en effectieve oplossing voor mensen die lijden aan ernstige artritis, verslechtering van gewrichten of heupfracturen en biedt een nieuwe kans op leven.
Kiezen voor Ribera Health Group voor uw heupprothese betekent kiezen voor deskundige zorg, faciliteiten van wereldklasse en persoonlijke behandelplannen op maat van uw behoeften. Zet de eerste stap naar een pijnvrije, actieve toekomst met ons gespecialiseerde orthopedische team.
FAQs
What is shoulder surgery and when is it necessary?
Shoulder surgery is performed to repair or replace damaged structures within the joint, usually when non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy or injections are no longer effective.
It’s most commonly indicated for rotator cuff tears, arthritis, shoulder instability, or fractures that affect mobility and cause persistent pain.
What types of shoulder surgery are most common?
The most frequent procedures include arthroscopic tendon repair, rotator cuff reconstruction, labrum stabilization, and total or reverse shoulder replacement. Each technique is chosen based on the patient’s diagnosis, activity level, and degree of tissue damage.
What is the difference between total and reverse shoulder replacement?
In a total shoulder replacement, the ball-and-socket anatomy of the joint is reproduced using biocompatible implants, ideal when the rotator cuff is intact. In a reverse shoulder replacement, the positions are switched to allow other muscles—mainly the deltoid—to move the arm when the rotator cuff is severely damaged.
How long does shoulder surgery take?
The operation typically lasts between one and two hours, depending on its complexity. Arthroscopic procedures are usually shorter, while joint replacements may take slightly longer due to implant placement and reconstruction steps.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Shoulder surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia combined with a regional nerve block, which numbs the arm for 12–24 hours after the procedure. This combination provides comfort during surgery and minimizes pain during the first stage of recovery.
How soon can I start moving my shoulder after surgery?
Gentle passive movements often begin within the first few days, guided by a physiotherapist. Active movement is gradually introduced after two to three weeks, depending on the procedure and the surgeon’s recommendations. Early, supervised motion is key to preventing stiffness.
How long does recovery take after shoulder surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the technique: around 6–8 weeks for arthroscopic repairs and 3–6 months for prosthetic replacements. During this period, physiotherapy is crucial to restore strength, stability, and full range of motion.
Will I need to wear a sling after surgery?
Yes. A shoulder sling or immobilizer is typically used for the first 2–4 weeks to protect the repair and allow tissues to heal. Your surgeon will specify how long you should keep it on and when to remove it for exercises.
What are the potential risks or complications?
Although shoulder surgery is safe and highly effective, rare complications can include infection, stiffness, nerve irritation, or tendon re-tear. These risks are minimized through sterile technique, careful surgical planning, and close postoperative monitoring.
When can I return to sports or physical activity?
Light activities and office work can often resume within 4–6 weeks. Sports or heavy physical work typically require 3–6 months, depending on healing and rehabilitation progress. Patients who follow their physiotherapy plan usually regain full function and return to sports safely.
Wat is inbegrepen:
- Medische kosten en ziekenhuiskosten tijdens je verblijf voor de operatie, inclusief pre-operatieve onderzoeken, tests en scans.
- Postoperatieve consulten en revalidatie.
- Privétransferservice tussen de luchthaven, het ziekenhuis en het hotel.
- 4-5 nachten 4-sterren hotelaccommodatie na de operatie in Eurostars Acteón Valencia (voor operaties in Hospital Ribera IMSKE) of Sercotel Alfonso XIII Cartagena (voor operaties in Hospital Ribera Virgen de la Caridad).
Artsen
De afdeling Traumatologie van Ribera wordt geleid door een team van gerenommeerde specialisten met uitgebreide ervaring in orthopedie, sportgeneeskunde en musculoskeletale chirurgie. Onze experts lopen voorop op het gebied van innovatie en maken gebruik van geavanceerde technologie en technieken om zorg van wereldklasse te leveren.
Faciliteiten
Onze ziekenhuizen en centra zijn uitgerust met geavanceerde technologie en moderne installaties die ontworpen zijn om de hoogste normen van medische zorg te leveren. We bieden comfortabele patiëntenkamers, een uitnodigende omgeving en voorzieningen op maat voor een soepele en stressvrije zorgervaring voor u en uw dierbaren.












Waarom Ribera kiezen voor uw gewrichtsvervangende operatie?
Bij Ribera Health Group combineren we expertise, innovatie en patiëntgerichte zorg om de best mogelijke resultaten te leveren voor gewrichtsvervangende operaties. Dit is waarom Ribera uw vertrouwde partner is voor orthopedische zorg:
Expertise van wereldklasse
Our highly skilled orthopedic surgeons and musculoskeletal specialists have extensive experience in performing hip, knee and shoulder, replacements. With a commitment to excellence, we provide personalized, effective treatments designed for long-term success.
Geavanceerde technologie
De Ribera centra zijn uitgerust met de nieuwste ontwikkelingen op het gebied van orthopedische chirurgie, waaronder robotprocedures, 3D-beeldvorming en minimaal invasieve technieken. Dit zorgt voor nauwkeurige plaatsing van implantaten, kortere hersteltijden en verbeterde mobiliteit voor onze patiënten.
Gespecialiseerde orthopedische zorg
Gewrichtsvervangende chirurgie bij Ribera is slechts één onderdeel van onze holistische benadering van musculoskeletale gezondheid. Wij bieden een naadloze ervaring om uw volledig herstel en langdurige gezondheid van uw gewrichten te ondersteunen met gepersonaliseerde revalidatieplannen en nazorg.
Patiëntgerichte benadering
Uw comfort en welzijn zijn onze topprioriteiten. Onze toegewijde zorgteams nemen de tijd om uw doelen te begrijpen, uw vragen te beantwoorden en u te begeleiden bij elke stap van uw gewrichtsvervanging.
Internationale patiëntenondersteuning
Voor onze internationale patiënten bieden we gespecialiseerde diensten, waaronder meertalige ondersteuning, reisassistentie en persoonlijke medische coördinatie. Wij zorgen ervoor dat de toegang tot orthopedische zorg van wereldklasse soepel en zonder stress verloopt en is afgestemd op uw behoeften.
Bewezen resultaten
Met een track record van succesvolle gewrichtsprothesen is Ribera er trots op operaties aan te bieden die de kwaliteit van leven aanzienlijk verbeteren. Onze focus op patiëntenresultaten zorgt ervoor dat u de uitzonderlijke zorg krijgt die u verdient.
Wat onze patiënten over ons zeggen
Andere behandelingen.
Vertrouw op orthopedische zorg van wereldklasse bij Ribera
Ontvang een persoonlijk behandelplan en begin vandaag nog aan uw reis naar een betere gezondheid van uw gewrichten.