Shoulder Surgery

If shoulder pain is limiting your daily life — whether it’s stopping you from lifting your arm, sleeping comfortably, or simply getting through the day without discomfort — you’re not alone.

Shoulder issues are incredibly common, especially after injury, repetitive strain, or simply through wear and tear over time. At Cosmedicare and St. Ellen’s Hospitals, we offer fast access to shoulder surgery, performed by GMC-registered Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons, in a fully regulated hospital setting.

Our goal? To get you moving again — safely, confidently, and with full support at every step.

Shoulder surgery is often recommended when non-surgical treatments (like physiotherapy or injections) haven’t provided lasting relief. Common conditions we treat include:

• Rotator cuff tears
• Shoulder impingement syndrome
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Labral (SLAP) tears
• Recurrent dislocation / shoulder instability
• Shoulder arthritis (including shoulder replacement)
• Bursitis or bone spurs
• Fractures that haven’t healed correctly

If you’ve been living with pain, limited mobility, or weakness, a consultation with our orthopaedic team can help you understand your options and decide whether surgery is right for you.

At Cosmedicare, our shoulder specialists perform a wide range of procedures, tailored to your individual condition:

1. Arthroscopic (Keyhole) Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery using a tiny camera and instruments inserted through small incisions.

Suitable for:

• Rotator cuff repairs
• Labral tears
• Bone spur removal
• Subacromial decompression
• Joint cleaning/debridement

Benefits:

• Less pain
• Quicker recovery
• Minimal scarring

2. Open Shoulder Surgery

Required for more complex cases, such as large tendon repairs, fractures, or shoulder replacement.

Includes:

• Shoulder stabilisation
• Tendon transfers
• Total or reverse shoulder replacements

All shoulder surgeries at Cosmedicare take place in our purpose-built private hospitals in Glasgow and Livingston — not converted clinic rooms.

Procedures are carried out under:

• General anaesthetic (you’ll be asleep and pain-free)
• With or without a regional nerve block to aid post-op comfort

You’ll be looked after by a consultant anaesthetist, specialist theatre team, and recovery nurses — ensuring hospital-standard care and safety from start to finish.

Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery, but typically includes:

• Sling or immobiliser use for the first 1–6 weeks
• Tailored physiotherapy plan to regain strength and movement
• Return to light activities within 2–4 weeks
• Return to sport/heavy lifting in 3–6 months (depending on surgery)

At Cosmedicare, your recovery is supported with a dedicated aftercare team, 24/7 post-op helpline, follow-up appointments with your consultant, and referral to physiotherapy partners if required

• Consultant-led care from the first consultation to post-op recovery
• No NHS waiting list delays
• Transparent pricing and finance options
• Hospital-standard theatres, anaesthetics and facilities
• Individualised care in a calm, supportive environment
• Locations in Glasgow and Livingston

Whether your shoulder problem is new or something you’ve lived with for years, we’re here to help you take control — and get back to living life on your terms.

Shoulder surgery isn’t just about fixing a joint — it’s about restoring function, freedom, and quality of life. At Cosmedicare, we combine clinical expertise with personalised support, giving you the best possible outcome in a setting designed around you.