Shoulder Replacement Surgery Cost in Chennai
Relief from constant shoulder pain and restored movement at Unittas Hospital
Constant shoulder pain that makes dressing, reaching or sleeping difficult can be exhausting. If arthritis or injury has severely damaged your shoulder, clear information on the shoulder replacement surgery cost in Chennai helps you take the next step. At Unittas Hospital, shoulder replacement typically ranges from ₹2,00,000 to ₹5,50,000, with joint care led by Dr. Vetri Chelvan Selvaraj.
Cost of Shoulder Replacement in Chennai
The cost depends on the type of implant and the complexity of the procedure. Here is an indicative breakdown:
| Procedure Type | Notes | Indicative cost |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement | For an intact rotator cuff | ₹2,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 |
| Reverse Shoulder Replacement | For massive rotator cuff tears | ₹2,50,000 to ₹5,50,000 |
| Revision Shoulder Replacement | For failed previous implants | ₹3,00,000 to ₹6,00,000 or more |
| Pre-operative Tests & Evaluation | Imaging and lab work | ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 |
| Hospital Stay & Anaesthesia | Usually 3 to 5 days | ₹25,000 to ₹60,000 |
These are indicative figures covering surgery, implants, anaesthesia and standard hospital stay. Your final cost depends on the implant type and whether it is a primary or revision procedure. We provide a personalised quote after evaluation, with EMI and insurance support. For the full range of joint care, see our orthopaedics page.
Factors That Influence Shoulder Replacement Cost
A range of factors may affect the final cost, including:
- Type of implant (anatomic or reverse) and its quality
- Whether it is a primary or revision surgery
- Your age, bone quality and overall health
- Use of advanced navigation or patient-specific implants
- Duration of hospital stay and rehabilitation needs
Our team explains the best option for your shoulder clearly and openly.
What is Shoulder Replacement & Who Needs It?
Shoulder replacement surgery replaces the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components, relieving pain and restoring function when other treatments no longer help. It is commonly recommended for:
- Severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Large rotator cuff tears with arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis after fractures
- Avascular necrosis or failed previous surgery
- Significant loss of motion and daily function
Two main types are used: anatomic total shoulder replacement and reverse shoulder replacement, chosen based on your rotator cuff and bone quality.
The Shoulder Replacement Process at Unittas Hospital
Assessment
Evaluation with X-rays, MRI and clinical review.
Planning
Personalised surgical planning and counselling.
The Surgery
Damaged joint surfaces replaced under general anaesthesia.
Recovery
A short stay of 3 to 5 days with early gentle movement.
Rehabilitation
Structured physiotherapy to rebuild strength.
Why Choose Unittas for Shoulder Replacement?
- Experienced joint replacement team led by Dr. Vetri Chelvan Selvaraj
- Anatomic, reverse and revision shoulder options
- Careful planning with imaging and patient-specific solutions
- Transparent pricing with EMI and insurance support
- Structured rehabilitation for a steady return of strength and movement
We combine clinical excellence with personalised care for the best possible outcome.
Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon at Unittas Hospital
Joint & Spine
OMR · Tambaram · ECR
Dr. Vetri Chelvan Selvaraj
MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), DNB (Orthopaedics), D Ortho, MNAMS, MRCS (Edinburgh)
Consultant Orthopaedic, Spine, Trauma & Replacement Surgeon
Dr. Vetri Chelvan offers expert orthopaedic care including knee and hip replacement, spine surgery, trauma and fracture management, sports medicine and arthroscopy, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques and structured rehabilitation across the Unittas OMR, Tambaram and ECR branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does shoulder replacement surgery take?
The procedure usually lasts 1 to 2 hours, though total theatre time may be longer.
Is shoulder replacement more painful than other joint replacements?
Pain is well-managed with modern techniques and medication, and most patients find it improves steadily after the first few days.
What is the difference between anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement?
Anatomic mimics the natural joint, while reverse changes the mechanics to compensate for a damaged rotator cuff.
How long does a shoulder implant last?
Modern implants often last 15 to 20 years or more, depending on activity level and individual factors.
When can I drive after shoulder replacement?
Most patients resume driving after 6 to 8 weeks, once they have good control and are off strong pain medication.
Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?
Yes, a guided rehabilitation programme is essential for regaining strength and movement.
What are the main risks of shoulder replacement?
Risks include infection, dislocation, implant loosening or nerve injury, but these are relatively low with experienced teams.
Can both shoulders be replaced at the same time?
It is uncommon due to rehabilitation challenges, so surgeries are usually staged several months apart.
Does insurance cover shoulder replacement surgery?
Many policies cover it when medically necessary. Our team helps with pre-authorisation and paperwork.
How soon will I feel better after shoulder replacement?
Pain relief is often noticeable within weeks, with steady improvement in function over several months.
Is shoulder replacement suitable for younger patients?
It can be done in younger patients with severe damage, though implant longevity is an important consideration.
What activities can I return to after recovery?
Most patients resume daily activities and light sports, though high-impact or heavy contact activities may need modification.
Related Orthopaedic Procedure Costs
Move Your Shoulder Freely Again
Get a transparent shoulder replacement quote and an expert assessment from our orthopaedic team. Book a consultation today.