Finding the Right Orthopedic Surgeon
What to look for when choosing an orthopedic surgeon for your shoulder condition, including key credentials, questions to ask, and resources to guide your decision
When you need orthopedic surgery, choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Extensive data has shown a direct correlation between the number of times a surgeon performs a procedure and the success rate—the more experience the doctor has with the surgery, the better the patient outcomes.
Request a Referral
Your primary care physician can refer you to orthopedic surgeons they know and trust. Request more than one name in case a doctor isn't accepting new patients. Keep in mind that some insurance plans require you to see a surgeon within your network, so confirm coverage before scheduling.
Get Personal Recommendations
Seek recommendations from family, friends, and colleagues who have had orthopedic surgery. Ask about their experience: Does the surgeon explain things clearly? Are they responsive to questions? Were they satisfied with the care and outcome?
Research Online
Search for orthopedic surgeons using the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) directory. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals provide patient reviews and details on physician experience.
Verify Credentials
Ensure your surgeon is board certified through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. Key factors to evaluate:
- Board certification and fellowship training in shoulder surgery
- How many years they have been practicing
- How many procedures they perform each year
- Experience treating your specific condition
10 Questions to Ask During Your Consultation
Use these questions to guide your conversation and help you evaluate whether a surgeon is the right fit for your care:
- What procedure or treatment do you recommend for my condition?
- How will this procedure help my condition and improve my quality of life?
- Are there non-surgical alternatives to this procedure?
- Do you perform the recommended procedure yourself or refer patients to someone else?
- How many times have you performed this specific procedure in the past year?
- What complications can occur with this procedure and how often do they happen?
- Do you personally follow up with patients after surgery?
- How skilled and experienced is the medical team involved in the procedure and follow-up care?
- What will my post-operative care include, such as physical therapy?
- How long does it typically take for patients to recover from this procedure?
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Gobezie
Dr. Reuben Gobezie is a board-certified, fellowship-trained shoulder specialist with over 20 years of experience and thousands of successful shoulder surgeries. He performs more than 350 shoulder replacements and 400 arthroscopic procedures annually, making him one of the highest-volume shoulder specialists in the country.