Does Shoulder Narrowing Cause a Hunchback Look?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I`m a transgender female, the wide shoulder bother me a lot at a longtime. So I`m quite interest in your shoulder reshaping surgery. Please allow me to ask you some questions.

1. How long is the postoperative recovery period. I have noticed that you have mention that some patients choose to separate the surgery into two parts, one shoulder at a time. So how long can I use my hand after the surgery ?

2. Will there be a visual effect of hunchback after surgery. I have noticed that there is no image about the side view of after surgery patient. So I a bit worry about the operation effect of side view.

A: In answer to your shoulder narrowing questions:

1) The recovery from shoulder narrowing surgery is in 3 phases all based on restrictions to upper arm range of motion. (not to hand or forearm movements) First two weeks elbows at side, next two weeks arms at 46 degrees, next two weeks arms at 90 degrees. Thereafter no restrictions for arm range of motion.

2) There is no long term hunchback effect from the surgery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon