Top Shoulder Replacement Surgeons in Charleston

Charleston Rankings 13 surgeons • 346 verified Medicare procedures Public CMS Medicare data

Rankings reflect Medicare procedure volume, one factor among many. Volume does not measure quality of care.

Discover Charleston's leading shoulder replacement surgeons ranked by verified Medicare procedure volume. Our comprehensive analysis covers 13 specialists performing shoulder replacement procedures in Charleston, South Carolina.

13
Surgeons
346
Verified Medicare procedures
52
Most by one surgeon
27
Average per surgeon
Shoulder replacement recovery kit Slings, cold therapy, and adaptive clothing for recovery
1

Josef K Eichinger, MD

Charleston, SC
Shoulder Replacement: 52 verified Medicare cases
2

Justin R Knight, MD

West Columbia, SC
Also practices here via Musc Medical Center
Shoulder Replacement: 44 verified Medicare cases
3

Richard J Friedman, MD

Charleston, SC
Shoulder Replacement: 42 verified Medicare cases
4

James D Dalton, MD

N Charleston, SC
Also practices here via Trident Medical Center
Shoulder Replacement: 35 verified Medicare cases
5

Heather M McIntosh, M.D.

Charleston, SC
Shoulder Replacement: 32 verified Medicare cases
6

James R Demarco, MD

Mount Pleasant, SC
Also practices here via Roper Hospital
Shoulder Replacement: 24 verified Medicare cases
7

James C McIntosh, MD

West Columbia, SC
Also practices here via Musc Medical Center
Shoulder Replacement: 23 verified Medicare cases
8

Brent A Ponce, MD

Charleston, SC
Shoulder Replacement: 22 verified Medicare cases
9

Adam C Schaaf, M.D.

North Charleston, SC
Also practices here via Trident Medical Center
Shoulder Replacement: 17 verified Medicare cases
10

Richard H Zimlich, M.D.

North Charleston, SC
Also practices here via Trident Medical Center
Shoulder Replacement: 16 verified Medicare cases
11

Brett H Young, M.D.

Summerville, SC
Also practices here via Roper Hospital
Shoulder Replacement: 14 verified Medicare cases
12

Brodie E McKoy, M.D.

Mt Pleasant, SC
Also practices here via Musc Medical Center
Shoulder Replacement: 13 verified Medicare cases
13

Thomas E Moran, MD

Charleston, SC
Shoulder Replacement: 12 verified Medicare cases

Shoulder Replacement in Charleston: the local picture

Public CMS Medicare data verifies 346 shoulder replacement procedures performed by the 13 surgeons listed on this page, all serving the Charleston area. Hospital affiliations among these surgeons most often include Musc Medical Center, Bon Secours-St Francis Xavier Hospital, and Roper Hospital.

Important Disclaimer

Rankings are based solely on Medicare procedure volume and do not reflect quality of care, patient outcomes, or procedures covered by private insurance. This data covers approximately 29% to 37% of all shoulder replacement procedures performed nationwide in 2024 (how this share is derived). Always consult with healthcare providers to make informed decisions about your care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Replacement in Charleston

How do I choose the best shoulder replacement surgeon in Charleston?
Look for surgeons who specialize in shoulder surgery with high procedure volumes (50+ shoulder replacements annually), board certification, fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, and experience with reverse shoulder replacement. Charleston has specialized shoulder surgeons ranked by Medicare volume.
What is the average cost of shoulder replacement in Charleston, South Carolina?
Medicare covers 80% of shoulder replacement costs after your deductible. Typical out-of-pocket costs range from $1,500-$4,500 depending on procedure complexity and facility. Charleston surgeons who participate in Medicare help control costs through standard fee schedules.
How long is recovery after shoulder replacement?
Initial recovery takes 6-8 weeks with arm support in a sling. Full recovery including strength and range of motion takes 6-12 months. Physical therapy is crucial and typically continues for 3-6 months. Charleston surgeons provide comprehensive recovery protocols for optimal outcomes.
What's the difference between regular and reverse shoulder replacement?
Regular (anatomic) shoulder replacement maintains natural joint structure. Reverse shoulder replacement switches the ball and socket positions, used for patients with rotator cuff damage. Charleston surgeons evaluate which type is appropriate based on your specific shoulder condition and rotator cuff integrity.
Does Medicare cover shoulder replacement in Charleston?
Yes, Medicare covers both anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement when medically necessary. Coverage includes surgery, hospital care, anesthesia, physical therapy, and medical equipment. You pay 20% coinsurance after meeting your Part B deductible. Charleston ranked surgeons accept Medicare assignment.