Shoulder Instability & Reconstruction in Seoul Stop the slipping
If your shoulder has dislocated or keeps slipping out, the stabilizing tissue may be torn. Reconstruction surgery, usually an arthroscopic Bankart repair, restores stability so you can trust your arm again.
Gangnam Nanoori Hospital, at 731 Eonju-ro in Gangnam-gu near Hakdong Station (Line 7, Exit 10), treats shoulder instability and recurrent dislocation. After an exam and MRI or CT, surgeons may recommend rehab, an arthroscopic Bankart repair of the torn labrum, or a Latarjet procedure when there is significant bone loss. English-speaking coordinators can book your visit via WhatsApp at +82-10-6290-9796.
Who may need shoulder reconstruction
Most first-time dislocations happen forward, often in sports or a fall, and can tear the labrum, the rim of cartilage that deepens the socket. Not everyone needs surgery. Recurrence is more likely in younger, active people.
Repeated dislocations
Your shoulder has come out more than once, or dislocates with everyday movements or in sleep.
Young, active athletes
Younger people in contact or overhead sports often have a high chance of dislocating again after the first episode.
Feeling of looseness
The shoulder slips partly out, clicks or feels unstable when you throw, reach or lift overhead.
Labral tear on MRI
Imaging shows a Bankart lesion, where the labrum has pulled away from the front of the socket.
Bone loss
Repeated dislocations have worn away part of the socket rim or the ball, which may call for Latarjet surgery.
Failed rehabilitation
Months of strengthening have not stopped the shoulder from slipping or limiting your activities.
How shoulder reconstruction works
Your surgeon plans the operation based on how much soft tissue and bone damage you have. Both main procedures are done under anesthesia, often with a nerve block for comfort.
Assessment and imaging
An exam tests stability. MRI shows the labrum and ligaments, and CT may be used to measure bone loss on the socket.
Choosing the procedure
With little bone loss, an arthroscopic Bankart repair is usually chosen. Significant bone loss often favors a Latarjet procedure.
Arthroscopic Bankart repair
Through small incisions, the torn labrum and ligaments are reattached to the socket rim with suture anchors, tightening the joint.
Latarjet procedure
A small piece of bone with its attached tendon is moved to the front of the socket and fixed with screws, adding a bony block.
Going home
Many patients go home the same day or after a short stay, wearing a sling, with a written rehab plan.
Rehab vs Bankart repair vs Latarjet
Each option suits a different situation. Your surgeon will explain which fits your shoulder and your activities. For other shoulder problems, see the Shoulder Center.
| Option | Best suited for | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation only | First dislocation, lower-demand activities, no major bone loss | Strengthening program; avoids surgery but recurrence risk is higher in young athletes |
| Arthroscopic Bankart repair | Recurrent instability with a labral tear and little bone loss | Keyhole surgery, small scars, sling for several weeks |
| Latarjet procedure | Significant socket bone loss, or a failed previous repair | Open or arthroscopic bone transfer with screws; robust stability for high-risk cases |
Bone loss is usually measured on CT before deciding between Bankart repair and Latarjet.
Recovery timeline
Timelines vary by procedure and sport. Your physical therapist will move you forward only when your shoulder is ready.
Weeks 0 to 4
Sling for comfort and protection. Gentle elbow, wrist and guided shoulder exercises begin.
Weeks 4 to 8
The sling is usually removed. You gradually regain range of motion with your therapist.
Months 2 to 4
Strengthening of the rotator cuff and shoulder-blade muscles. Most daily and desk activities return to normal.
Months 4 to 6 and beyond
Sport-specific training. Return to contact or overhead sports is often around four to six months, once strength and control are restored.
What a Bankart repair does
In a Bankart repair, the torn labrum is fixed back onto the edge of the socket so the ball stays centered.
Simplified medical illustration for education only, not a patient image. Results vary by condition and individual; your specialist will explain what to expect for your case.
Your Specialists
Care at this clinic is provided by Nanoori Joint Center orthopedic surgeons. Tap a doctor to see their full profile.
Common Questions
Do I need surgery after my first shoulder dislocation?
Not always. Many people start with a period of rest and strengthening. Surgery may be recommended earlier for young athletes in contact or overhead sports, or when imaging shows significant damage, because their chance of another dislocation is higher.
What should I do if my shoulder dislocates?
Support the arm and go to an emergency department for an X-ray and safe reduction. Do not let untrained people pull on the arm. Afterward, arrange an orthopedic review so the cause of instability can be assessed.
What is the difference between Bankart repair and Latarjet?
A Bankart repair reattaches the torn soft tissue rim to the socket using anchors. A Latarjet transfers a small piece of bone to the front of the socket to rebuild it, which is usually preferred when there is significant bone loss or a previous repair has failed.
When can I return to sports after reconstruction?
Many people return to non-contact sports around four months and to contact or overhead sports around four to six months or later. Return depends on strength, motion and confidence, not just time.
Can I travel home after shoulder reconstruction in Seoul?
Usually yes, after your early follow-up and once your surgeon agrees. You will be in a sling, so plan help with luggage. We provide a written report and rehab plan so you can continue therapy at home.
Will my insurance pay for shoulder surgery?
Enrolled foreign residents can use Korean NHIS. For international insurance, we can prepare medical reports and billing documents, but coverage depends on your policy and insurer. Ask our coordinators via our contact page.
Stop worrying about your shoulder slipping out
Message our English-speaking coordinators on WhatsApp to book an instability assessment with a shoulder surgeon.
Related Care
Last updated October 2026. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Contact us · Gangnam Nanoori Hospital home
