Can My Shorter Shoulder Be Lengthened?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am a young male in my 20s. My right shoulder is shorter than the left since I was born. It is genetic. My father has the same condition. No problems except cosmetic reason. My right clavicle is more curved than left. 

I want my both shoulders equal and identical. Is it possible Sir?

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your pictures. It appears your right clavicle is shorter than the left one, perhaps by about 2.5 to 3 cms. Conceptually the right clavicle can be lengthened by the placement of an interpositional fibular bone graft of that length. The key question is where on the shaft of the clavicle should that be done. It appears that the inner third of the shaft would be the best location for the osteotomy and graft. Although a 3D CT scan of your shoulders would show the clavicle anatomy in detail and would be very helpful in making the decision for the best osteotomy location.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana