When shoulder pain and loss of function persist despite nonsurgical treatment, replacement may be an option. Treatment depends on rotator cuff function, bone anatomy, activity goals and health.
Two approaches to shoulder replacement
A QUICK SIDE-BY-SIDE GUIDE
Both procedures replace damaged joint surfaces, but they are designed for different shoulder conditions.
01 / ANATOMIC
Anatomic shoulder replacement
Restores the shoulder’s natural ball-and-socket arrangement.
Rotator cuff
Generally works well enough to support the replacement.
Often considered for
Shoulder arthritis with a functioning rotator cuff.
How it’s evaluated
Examination, X-rays, and additional imaging when needed.
Which is right for you? Rotator cuff function, bone anatomy, arthritis severity, and your goals all matter. Advanced 3D planning can help guide implant sizing and positioning when shoulder replacement is appropriate.
Patient reviews
Patient experiences, in their own words.
Reverse total shoulder replacement
★★★★★
Outstanding care!
The good doctor performed a reverse total shoulder replacement in August (2026) for me. Awesome communicator, great follow-up, and of course highly skilled. In fact it was such a great experience so that I am having the other shoulder done in November (2026).
AnonymousHealthgrades review · Oct 16, 2026
Total shoulder replacement
★★★★★
Excellent Surgeon
Dr Haber is an excellent surgeon. I had a total shoulder replacement and cannot be happier with the results. Everything was very well organized and made the whole process easier. I definitely recommend him for anyone looking to have a shoulder replacement.
Dennis CiocchettiHealthgrades review · Mar 04, 2023
Reverse total shoulder replacement
★★★★★
After an extremely painful emergency situation with another orthopedic surgeon, I was referred by the hospital emergency room staff to contact Dr. Haber at Panorama Orthopedics. His staff and physician's assistant got me in to see them within 2 hours of my call. I was immediately diagnosed and scheduled for a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement.
Dr. Haber is, perhaps, the most knowledgeable and professional person I have ever met. He has a sincere empathy for his patients and takes the time to discuss a particular diagnosis until the patient clearly understands exactly what is to be expected.
The entire Panorama medical team is exceptional and I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to refer Panorama/Dr. Haber to anyone requiring orthopedic medical attention.
Nancy E. Doran
Westminster, CO
Nancy DoranGoogle review
Shoulder replacements
★★★★★
Dr Haber was very open & comfortable to talk to. I have had both my shoulders replaced in the last 2 years. Both experiences went very well. I have just finished the rehab on the last replacement. They are in contact with you throughout your recovery & respond quickly to concerns or questions. The whole team seems focused on you as if you are their only patient.
I would strongly recommend Dr Haber to anyone needing shoulder surgery of any kind.
PaulaGoogle review
Reverse shoulder replacement
★★★★★
After meeting Dr Haber and his team last year, I decided he was who I wanted to do my shoulder surgery. He took the time to get to know me and my expectations, to discuss all options, address any concerns and answer my questions. I am now almost 4 months out from my reverse shoulder replacement and could not be happier with the results. Dr. Haber and his staff have been wonderful.
Patricia SallingGoogle review
Reverse shoulder replacement
★★★★★
I had reverse left shoulder replacement performed by Dr. Daniel Haber on January 5, 2024. I have been thoroughly thrilled with the results! Dr. Haber got the angles correct for my range of motion to already be amazing only 4 months later!!!
His team has supported me from diagnosis through recovery. I saw Brooke first. She was very informative. All questions were answered promptly by Nick as I prepared for the surgery and rehab.
I am so happy that I chose Dr. Haber and his team of professionals for my Reverse Shoulder Surgery.
I would recommend him to my family and friends.
flo feeleyGoogle review
Shoulder replacements
★★★★★
Dr. Haber is a highly skilled and compassionate surgeon. Dr. Haber replaced both of my shoulders a year apart due to rotator cuff tears. I experienced little pain and was able to immediately begin physical therapy.
Through the entire process Dr. Haber's office was available for any questions. During follow-up visits, I was treated with the same professionalism and compassion.
Skip MenicosGoogle review
Reverse shoulder surgery
★★★★★
Hi highly recommend Dr. Daniel Haber. I’m 63 yrs old and I fell on 02OCT2024 and broke my left shoulder in 8 different places. I also had a previous surgery on my left shoulder back in 2020 after a major car accident so my shoulder was already giving me issues. I was so glad my niece recommended Dr Haber as she is a surgical tech and works with a lot of different surgeons in the operating room. My niece told me Dr Haber was a great, gifted, perfectionist surgeon but what makes him stand out from all the other surgeons she works with was his bedside manner. Dr. Haber treats everyone like they matter and is truly a caring Doctor.
I ended up going with Dr Haber after meeting him and his staff. I had reverse shoulder replacement surgery on 11DEC2024 and I feel my shoulder is better than it was before my accident. I was lucky to have the recommendation from my niece and I would love to confirm that Dr. Haber not only is a great Doctor / Surgeon but also has great bedside manner from my personal experience. Dr Haber explained everything to me why he recommended reverse shoulder surgery and the before and after care was great. His staff is also wonderful!!
👍🏼 For Dr. Haber!!
Cindy PowellGoogle review
Clavicle fracture surgery
★★★★★
Great Doctor, wonderful human being
Dr. Haber repaired my severely fractured left clavicle. He is an outstanding surgeon with a kind nature, a good listener who worked with me to find a recovery plan that both challenged me and protected me. Scheduling and office visits were efficient but not rushed. Dr Haber coordinated well with my physical therapist.
AnonymousHealthgrades review
Selected patient reviews. Individual experiences and recovery vary; reviews do not guarantee a particular outcome.
Persistent pain despite a thoughtful trial of nonoperative care
Night pain or difficulty with ordinary daily activities
Loss of motion or weakness that limits function
Imaging findings that help explain the symptoms
Goals and health considerations that support proceeding with surgery
What the consultation includes
Dr. Haber reviews your history, examines shoulder motion and strength, reviews imaging, and discusses nonoperative options alongside potential procedures. If surgery is appropriate, the plan includes implant selection, recovery expectations, physical therapy and a candid discussion of risks.
Dr. Haber's published shoulder replacement guide
Dr. Haber authored Total Shoulder Replacement: Anatomic & Reverse Options for Panorama Orthopedics. His article provides an overview of implant choices, preparation, rehabilitation and frequently asked questions. Read the original Panorama article ↗
Common questions
Is total shoulder replacement the same as reverse replacement?
No. Anatomic replacement reproduces the normal ball-and-socket relationship. Reverse replacement changes that orientation and can provide a mechanical advantage when the rotator cuff does not function well.
Do I need surgery for shoulder arthritis?
Not necessarily. Many people begin with physical therapy, activity modification, medications or appropriately selected injections. Surgery is considered in the context of ongoing symptoms and individual goals.
How long is shoulder replacement recovery?
After anatomic or reverse replacement, Dr. Haber generally uses a sling for 4 weeks with gentle passive motion and physical therapy starting within 1 week. Active motion and simple daily tasks begin after 4 weeks, with lifting or loading limited to approximately 3–5 pounds. Return to approved recreational activities often occurs around 4.5–6 months when cleared. Contact sports and repetitive heavy lifting may remain restricted. Cuff and labral repairs follow different protection periods; see the shoulder recovery guide and your surgery-day physical therapy protocol.
Dr. Haber uses advanced three-dimensional, computer-generated reconstructions of the shoulder—typically derived from CT imaging—to plan specifics for your shoulder replacement before entering the operating room. These models allow him to evaluate glenoid wear, bone stock and alignment, assess appropriate implant positioning, and refine component sizing and orientation for each patient's anatomy.
For particularly complex or unusual anatomy, Dr. Haber may occasionally order patient-specific or custom implants when standard options are insufficient. Preoperative planning helps Dr. Haber assess bone anatomy and plan implant positioning; it does not guarantee an outcome. Learn more about anatomic shoulder replacement and reverse shoulder replacement.
Explore more conditions
Complex shoulder conditions and procedures
Shoulder problems range from athletic instability to biceps and labral disorders. Each deserves its own evaluation and treatment approach.
Choose the protocol assigned for your exact surgery and share it with your physical therapist. Your postoperative instructions take precedence over general recovery timelines.
Shoulder protocols — 29 documents
Use the protocol assigned by Dr. Haber for your exact procedure. Combined repairs, massive rotator cuff repairs, and fracture surgery may require different restrictions and timelines.
