How Long Will My Shoulder Replacement Last?
As an orthopedic surgeon who performs a high volume of shoulder surgeries, one of the most frequent questions I get from patients is: “How long will my shoulder replacement last?”
Thanks to advances in surgical techniques and implant technology, shoulder replacements are lasting longer than ever before. However, it’s important to note that because these technologies continue to evolve, we don’t have exact data on how long the current generation of implants will last. What we do know from studies on previous generations of implants is very encouraging. The vast majority of shoulder replacements—over 90%—function well for at least 10 years. As newer generations of implants are tracked over time, we anticipate even better longevity.
I typically advise my patients to expect a shoulder replacement to last at least 15 to 20 years, with many patients likely enjoying longer-term outcomes as technology improves. However, several factors can influence the lifespan of an implant, particularly age and activity level. Younger, more active patients may place more stress on their shoulder replacements, potentially reducing their longevity. Conversely, older patients with lower activity levels often find that their replacement can last for the rest of their lives.
A recent meta-analysis published in The Lancet evaluated 529 shoulder replacements and found that the 10-year survival rate was 92% for anatomic shoulder replacements and 94% for reverse shoulder replacements, further highlighting the excellent long-term outcomes of these surgeries.
Ultimately, while it’s difficult to predict exactly how long a shoulder replacement will last, the data and technological advancements suggest that patients can expect excellent durability, often well beyond 10 years. As materials and techniques continue to improve, I remain optimistic that future shoulder replacements will have even longer lifespans, offering patients sustained relief and function for many years to come.