London Cartilage Clinic IconLondon Cartilage Clinic66 Harley Street
Patient experiencing shoulder discomfort

Labrum Repair (Shoulder)

From £9,800
View Price List

Guide price only. Final cost is confirmed after assessment.

The shoulder labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the socket and keeps the joint stable. Tears to the labrum, whether from a dislocation, repetitive overhead activity, or trauma, can cause pain, clicking, and a feeling that the shoulder may give way. Arthroscopic labrum repair uses suture anchors placed through keyhole incisions to reattach the torn tissue and restore stability. At London Cartilage Clinic, our specialists assess the tear pattern and your activity goals to plan the most effective repair.

Free Discovery CallBook a Consultation
Prof Paul LeeReviewed byProf Paul LeeLast reviewed 1 May 2026
Surgeon performing arthroscopic shoulder procedure

Types of labral tear and how they present

Labral tears vary in location, size, and impact on the joint. The surgical approach is tailored to the specific tear pattern and any associated ligament damage.

  • Bankart tear: occurs at the front-bottom of the labrum, typically after shoulder dislocation. The primary cause of recurrent instability.
  • SLAP tear: affects the top of the labrum where the biceps tendon anchors. Common in throwing athletes and those performing repetitive overhead movements.
  • Posterior tear: less common, often associated with internal impingement in overhead athletes.

Accurate diagnosis with MRI arthrogram and clinical examination is essential. Many labral tears are only fully characterised at the time of arthroscopy, which is why specialist assessment matters.

Free Discovery CallBook a Consultation

Surgery and recovery what to expect

Arthroscopic labrum repair is performed through small incisions using a camera and specialised instruments. The torn labrum is reattached to the bone rim of the socket using bioabsorbable suture anchors.

  • Sling use for three to six weeks depending on repair extent.
  • Supervised physiotherapy to restore range of motion and rotator cuff control.
  • Return to sport guided by functional testing, typically from four to six months.

Our rehabilitation programme is designed around your goals. Whether you need to return to competitive sport or simply reach overhead without apprehension, the milestones are set accordingly.

Free Discovery CallBook a Consultation
Patient in shoulder sling after surgery

You may have more options than you think

Most patients have more treatment options than they have been told

At London Cartilage Clinic we follow a structured clinical framework across four areas of treatment. Before recommending a single procedure, we assess which combination of approaches gives you the best outcome.

Preserve

Protect what you have. Slow degeneration and manage symptoms.

Repair

Fix specific damage. Torn tissue, unstable joints, structural problems.

Regenerate

Rebuild lost tissue. Biological treatments that stimulate new growth.

Replace

When other options are exhausted. Joint replacement as a last resort.

Explore the full range of treatments available for your joint. Each hub page shows every option we offer, organised by clinical approach.

Explore Shoulder Options
consulting-in-office-with-pen

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the shoulder labrum and why does it matter?

The labrum is a ring of fibrous cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket (glenoid). It deepens the socket, helps hold the ball of the humerus in place, and serves as an attachment point for ligaments and the biceps tendon. When torn, the shoulder can become unstable, painful, or both.

What types of labral tears are there?

The most common types are Bankart tears (lower front of the labrum, typically from dislocations), SLAP tears (superior labrum where the biceps attaches), and posterior labral tears. Each has different causes, symptoms, and surgical considerations.

How long does it take to recover from shoulder labrum repair?

Recovery typically involves a sling for three to six weeks, followed by progressive range of motion and strengthening. Most patients return to non-contact sport between four and six months. Contact or overhead sport may take six to nine months depending on the type of repair and your progress.

Can a labral tear heal without surgery?

Some labral tears, particularly small degenerative tears, may be managed with physiotherapy and injection therapy. However, tears causing recurrent instability or significant mechanical symptoms usually benefit from surgical repair to prevent further damage to the joint.

Will my shoulder feel stable again after labrum repair?

Labrum repair has a high success rate for restoring shoulder stability, particularly in Bankart repairs following dislocation. Commitment to the rehabilitation programme is important for building the muscular control that supports the surgical repair long-term.

Still have more specific concerns?

Free Discovery Call

London Cartilage Clinic

Latest Insights

Clinical updates, cartilage treatment guidance, and recovery-focused articles from our specialist team.

Figure Four Stretch Benefits and Technique for Hip Health
Eleanor Hayes

Figure Four Stretch Benefits and Technique for Hip Health

The figure four stretch, endorsed by Professor Paul Lee and the London Cartilage Clinic, is a simple yet effective exercise that improves hip mobility, reduces lower back tension, and enhances flexibility. Originating from yoga, it targets key hip muscles like the piriformis and gluteus maximus, benefiting office workers, athletes, and those with sciatica by easing pressure on the sciatic nerve. Performable lying or seated, this stretch supports musculoskeletal health and can be adapted for varying mobility levels. Experts emphasize safe practice and tailored advice to maximize benefits and prevent injury. Incorporating the figure four stretch into daily routines promotes hip flexibility and overall joint health, making it a valuable tool in rehabilitation and fitness.

Read More
Advanced Cartilage Regeneration Gels Transforming Knee Joint Health
Eleanor Hayes

Advanced Cartilage Regeneration Gels Transforming Knee Joint Health

Knee cartilage damage impairs mobility and quality of life, with limited natural healing. Recent advances in gel-based therapies—including peptide and protein hydrogels—offer promising cartilage regeneration by mimicking natural tissue and stimulating chondrocyte growth. Unlike traditional injections that relieve symptoms, these next-generation gels actively promote healthy cartilage repair through minimally invasive injections. Clinical studies demonstrate significant improvements in pain and function, showcasing better outcomes than conventional treatments. Expert-led centers combine these innovative therapies with rehabilitation for optimal recovery. While patient responses vary, ongoing research aims to refine personalized approaches and long-term effectiveness. These advances provide hopeful new options for managing knee cartilage injuries beyond symptom management.

Read More
ACL Tear Symptoms and Treatment Importance
Eleanor Hayes

ACL Tear Symptoms and Treatment Importance

An ACL tear is a common knee injury, especially in sports involving sudden stops and pivots, causing sharp pain, a popping sound, and knee instability. The anterior cruciate ligament stabilizes the knee by controlling shin movement and preventing excessive twisting. Immediate symptoms include swelling and difficulty bearing weight, while diagnosis typically requires MRI imaging to confirm the ligament damage. Proper medical evaluation and expert care, such as at the London Cartilage Clinic, are crucial for tailored treatment and recovery. Understanding ACL tear symptoms and causes helps in timely intervention and preventing further injury.

Read More
View all insights
Privacy & Cookies Policy