Will Clavicle Shortening Surgery Cause Bad Posture?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I’ve done a bit of research on clavicle shortening surgery. I’m a 23 year old female, however my shoulders are really borad compared to the rest of my body. I do have some questions before booking a vitual meeting for the surgery.

As I’m coming from Denmark, and travelling alone. What is the minimum required of days to stay? I can’t stay for too long. And do you offer a place to stay after surgery, when travelling alone (of course paid)

Will the surgery cause my shoulders to roll inwards, making it look like I have a bad posture?

And is there any long term risks of the surgery, which you’ve seen with your patients? Such as nerve pain/damage, pain in shoulders/arms, or lower mobility? , or any impact on the back muscles during time?

Can I expect any complications during pregnancy or birth?

Will the metal inside the shoulders cause any trouble when visiting airports?

A:You have correctly surmised that the biggest issue in clavicle shortening surgery, particularly for overseas patients who are traveling alone, is the immediate postop recovery logistics. We advise all of such patients to stay at the Hyatt Place right next to my office and very close to my surgery center which makes everything easier. I would anticipate you returning home 5 to 7 days after the surgery.

The surgery does not cause the shoulders to roll in to any significant degree nor does it affect your posture once fully recovered.

I have seen no adverse musculoskeletal effects from the surgery.

The surgery will cause no issues with subsequent pregnancies.

The metal hardware used is titanium which is both MRI compatible and not a problem with airport scanners.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon