Can Shoulder Reduction Surgery Cause Any Long Term Pain and Reduced Arm Movement?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am biologically male, and have been undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for about a 18 months now. I am more comfortable with most of my body now, except for my shoulders, which seem out of proportion to me. From at-home measurements, my bideltoid width is about 47cm. I would like to bring it down a few centimeters, to get a shoulder-hip ratio that falls within typical female range. I am however quite concerned about the risks of long-term pain and reduced movement, and would like to discuss them.

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your picture. With a typical reduction of 2.5cms per side, you cold reduce your bideltoid width down to 43cms. To date no patient that has had shoulder narrowing surgery by clavicular reduction osteotomies has developed any postoperative issues with chronic pain or any restriction of shoulder or arm range of motion.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana