Advances in orthopaedic surgery have made it possible to treat many shoulder conditions with less pain, smaller incisions, and faster recovery. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is one of the most effective minimally invasive techniques used today to diagnose and treat a wide range of shoulder problems. For patients seeking expert shoulder care in South Florida, the Miami Shoulder Institute specialises in advanced arthroscopic procedures designed to restore movement, reduce pain, and improve long-term shoulder function.
This guide explains what arthroscopic shoulder surgery is, when it’s recommended, its benefits, and what to expect during recovery.
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera (arthroscope) and specialised instruments are inserted into the shoulder joint through tiny incisions. The camera provides a clear, magnified view of the joint, allowing precise diagnosis and treatment without the need for large surgical cuts.
At the Miami Shoulder Institute, arthroscopy is commonly used to treat conditions such as:
Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopic techniques offer several advantages:
These benefits make arthroscopy the preferred option for many shoulder conditions treated at the Miami Shoulder Institute.
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery may be recommended if:
A detailed evaluation at the Miami Shoulder Institute helps determine whether arthroscopic surgery is the most effective solution for your specific condition.
Although the exact steps depend on the condition being treated, most arthroscopic procedures follow a similar process:
The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia, sometimes combined with a regional nerve block for pain control.
Several tiny incisions are made around the shoulder to insert the arthroscope and surgical instruments.
The surgeon carefully examines the joint, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments to confirm the diagnosis.
Depending on the condition, the surgeon may repair torn tendons, remove inflamed tissue, smooth bone spurs, or stabilise the joint.
The instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with minimal sutures.
The Miami Shoulder Institute uses advanced arthroscopic technology to ensure accuracy, safety, and optimal outcomes.
Recovery varies based on the procedure performed, but most patients experience a faster and smoother recovery compared to open surgery.
The Miami Shoulder Institute provides personalised rehabilitation plans and ongoing follow-up to support safe healing and long-term shoulder health.
While arthroscopic shoulder surgery is generally safe, all surgical procedures carry some risks, including infection, stiffness, or delayed healing. Choosing an experienced, shoulder-focused specialist significantly reduces these risks and improves outcomes.
The Miami Shoulder Institute places strong emphasis on patient education, careful surgical planning, and structured postoperative care.
Specialised expertise makes a meaningful difference in both surgical success and recovery quality.
If shoulder pain or limited movement is affecting your quality of life, arthroscopic shoulder surgery may be the solution. With expert evaluation and advanced minimally invasive care, the Miami Shoulder Institute helps patients return to comfortable, confident shoulder movement.
Book your consultation today and begin your path toward recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and specialised instruments to diagnose and treat shoulder conditions through tiny incisions, resulting in less pain and faster recovery.
At the Miami Shoulder Institute, arthroscopic surgery is commonly used to treat rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, labral tears, shoulder instability, frozen shoulder, arthritis-related damage, and biceps tendon injuries.
Most patients experience significantly less pain compared to traditional open surgery. Pain is usually well managed with medication, ice therapy, and guided rehabilitation.
The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the shoulder condition being treated.
Recovery time varies by procedure, but many patients resume light daily activities within a few weeks. Full recovery and return to sports or heavy work may take several months with proper rehabilitation.
Yes. Physical therapy is a crucial part of recovery. A structured rehabilitation program helps restore mobility, rebuild strength, and prevent stiffness.
Patients with desk jobs may return within a few days to weeks, while physically demanding jobs may require a longer recovery period based on the procedure and healing progress.
Yes. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is considered very safe when performed by experienced shoulder specialists. The Miami Shoulder Institute follows advanced surgical protocols to minimise risks and optimise outcomes.
Most patients will need to wear a sling for a short period to protect the shoulder and allow proper healing. The duration depends on the type of repair performed.
If shoulder pain, weakness, or limited movement persists despite non-surgical treatment, a specialist evaluation at the Miami Shoulder Institute can determine whether arthroscopic surgery is the right option.
Miami Shoulder Institute is dedicated to delivering world-class care with compassion, expertise, and integrity. Your mobility, our mission.