How Soon Could I Work As An Artist After Shoulder Reduction Surgery?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Hello! I’m interested in shoulder reduction surgery but had a few questions. One, I’m a graphic designer. How soon after this surgery would I be about to go back to doing my work? Secondly, what are the long-term impacts on the shoulders? Should I have any concerns about that…?

A: In answer to your shoulder reduction questions:

1) Since the first 2 weeks after surgery one has to keep their elbows close to their side as a postoperative restriction (short arming it)  I assume that you could not work as a graphic artist. (although maybe you could) After two weeks one can move their arms out to 45 degrees in which I assume there would be no problems working then.

2) There are no known long term issues with shoulder function. The amount of clavicle length removed (2.5cms) isn’t enough to do so.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World Renowned Plastic Surgeon