For patients in Torrance, Marina Del Rey, and Long Beach, the prospect of shoulder surgery often conjures images of large incisions and long hospital stays. However, modern orthopedic care has shifted toward “minimally invasive” solutions. Shoulder arthroscopy is a revolutionary surgical technique that allows Dr. Allyson Estess to diagnose and treat complex shoulder issues through tiny incisions, using a high-definition camera and specialized micro-instruments.
Why Choose Arthroscopic Over Open Surgery?
Traditional “open” shoulder surgery often required a large incision, which meant cutting through significant muscle and tissue to reach the joint. In contrast, shoulder arthroscopy allows Dr. Estess to visualize the entire joint interior on a monitor with extreme clarity. Because the incisions are small, there is significantly less trauma to the surrounding muscles. For our patients, this translates into:
- Reduced Post-Operative Pain: Less tissue disruption means less inflammation and a more comfortable recovery.
- Faster Rehabilitation: With less surgical trauma to overcome, patients can typically start physical therapy sooner.
- Minimal Scarring: Most patients are left with only tiny, faint marks rather than a large surgical scar.
When is Arthroscopy Recommended?
Dr. Estess frequently utilizes arthroscopy to treat conditions like rotator cuff tears, labral tears (SLAP lesions), and shoulder instability/dislocations. Because Dr. Estess is a fellowship-trained sports medicine specialist, she understands that your shoulder’s function is vital to your lifestyle—whether you are a competitive athlete in Hermosa Beach or someone managing degenerative wear-and-tear in Palos Verdes.
By choosing a board-certified specialist who focuses on arthroscopic precision, you are choosing a path that prioritizes the preservation of healthy tissue. If you are experiencing chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, or the feeling that your joint is “loose,” it is time for a professional evaluation to see if you are a candidate for this advanced, minimally invasive approach.
Schedule Your Consultation:
- Marina Del Rey: 13160 Mindanao Way, Suite 300, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 | (310) 437-7921
- Torrance: 23600 Telo Avenue, Suite 180, Torrance, CA 90505 | (310) 437-7921
- Long Beach: 3610 Long Beach Blvd, Suite 202, Long Beach, CA 90807 | (310) 437-7921