I've recommended this procedure because it gives us the best path to getting you back to the activities you love — with minimal disruption to your life. Shoulder arthroscopy is one of the safest, most effective procedures I perform. I've dedicated my career to helping patients just like you recover fully and return to wellness. We are with you every step of the way.
Shoulder Arthroscopy — Explained Simply
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Shoulder arthroscopy is a procedure where Dr. Berkowitz inserts a tiny camera — called an arthroscope — into your shoulder joint through small "buttonhole" incisions. This allows him to see, diagnose, and repair damage inside the joint without making a large cut. Most patients go home the same day.
What Can Be Treated
- Rotator cuff tears (partial or full thickness)
- Labral tears including SLAP lesions
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Shoulder instability and recurrent dislocations
- Bone spurs and inflamed tissue
- Bicep tendon problems
Why Arthroscopic vs. Open Surgery
- Smaller incisions — typically less than half an inch
- Less trauma to surrounding muscles and tissue
- Faster recovery than traditional open surgery
- Less post-operative pain and scarring
- Lower risk of infection
- Usually performed as outpatient — you go home same day
📍 Queens
80-02 Kew Gardens Rd, 5th Floor
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
📍 Brooklyn
50 Court St, 11th Floor, Suite 1108-09
Brooklyn, NY 11201
📍 Bronx
2356 University Ave
Bronx, NY 10468
📍 Long Island
393 Old Country Road, Suite 303
Carle Place, NY 11514
What Happens on Surgery Day
The procedure typically takes up to half an hour. You will be at the surgery center for approximately 2–4 hours total, then go home the same day. Here is exactly what to expect:
Arrival & Pre-Op
Arrive 1–2 hours before your scheduled time. Nurses will prep you, check vitals, and place an IV line. You'll meet the anesthesiologist and Dr. Berkowitz before going to the operating room.
Anesthesia
You'll receive either a regional nerve block or light general anesthesia. You will feel absolutely nothing during the procedure. The anesthesiologist will explain your options beforehand.
Small Portal Incisions
Dr. Berkowitz makes 2–3 tiny "buttonhole" incisions around your shoulder — each less than half an inch. These are the entry points for the camera and surgical instruments.
Visualization & Treatment
The arthroscope camera sends live images to a monitor. Dr. Berkowitz examines the joint and performs the repair — whether rotator cuff, labrum, bone spurs, or other structures.
Closure & Sling
Incisions are closed with sutures or steri-strips. If you had a rotator cuff or labral repair, your arm will be placed in a sling to protect the repair while it heals.
Recovery Room & Discharge
You rest in the recovery room for up to 1–2 hours. Once cleared, transportation takes you home the same day. A responsible adult should be with you the first evening.
Will It Hurt?
Nothing during the procedure — anesthesia handles that completely. Afterward, some soreness is normal. Dr. Berkowitz will prescribe pain medication. Do not add extra Tylenol on top of prescriptions. Apply ice regularly to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Your Road to Recovery
Rest at Home
Have a responsible adult stay with you. Keep arm elevated. Wear sling if instructed. Take prescribed medication. Apply ice.
Dressing Care
Remove the dressing 3 days after surgery, shower, dry thoroughly, then cover each incision with a band-aid.
Follow-Up Visit
Return to Dr. Berkowitz's office. He will review the procedure, remove sutures, and guide your next steps.
Physical Therapy
PT 2–3x per week for 6–8 weeks (unless Dr. Berkowitz advises otherwise). Restores strength and range of motion.
CPM Machine
Use your CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machine at home for 4–6 weeks. A company rep will deliver it to you.
Return to Life
Most patients resume normal activities. Full recovery may take several weeks — follow Dr. Berkowitz's guidance throughout.
About Your CPM Machine
A CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machine gently and continuously moves your shoulder while you rest. It significantly accelerates recovery by improving range of motion, preventing the formation of scar tissue (adhesions), and decreasing stiffness. A company representative will contact you after surgery to deliver and set it up at your home. Important: The CPM machine does NOT replace physical therapy — both are essential. Always follow Dr. Berkowitz's specific instructions.
Rotator Cuff & Labral Repair — Special Instructions
If you had an arthroscopic repair of a rotator cuff tear or a labral tear, your surgeon will advise you to keep your arm immobilized at all times in a sling. Do NOT use a CPM machine or start physical therapy until Dr. Berkowitz specifically instructs you to. Protecting the repair in the early weeks is critical to successful healing.
⚠️ Call Our Office Immediately If You Experience:
- Fever above 101°F
- Excessive bleeding from the incision site
- Chills, persistent nausea, or vomiting
- Rash or allergic reaction
- Excessive swelling or redness around the incision
- Pus or discharge from the incision
- Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
Call us immediately: 718-575-5454
How to Prepare
Pre-Surgery Checklist — tap each item to check off
Prepare Your Home
- Set up a comfortable recovery area where you can rest with your arm supported and elevated
- Stock up on ice packs, pillows for arm elevation, and easy-to-prepare meals
- Place essentials within easy reach — remote, phone charger, water, medication
- Have a responsible adult available to drive you home and stay the first night
- Prepare button-down or zip-up shirts — these are easiest to put on after shoulder surgery
- If prescribed, set up space for your CPM machine before surgery day
Medications — Important
Inform Dr. Berkowitz of all medications, supplements, and vitamins you currently take. You may be asked to stop blood thinners (aspirin, NSAIDs) at least 5 days before surgery. Medical clearance may be required — if so, it must be received by our office no later than 3 days before surgery. After surgery, do not take additional Tylenol on top of your prescription pain medication.
Surgery Centers
🏥 Surgicore Surgical Center
550 Newark Ave, Suite 501
Jersey City, NJ 07306
🏥 Fifth Ave Surgery Center
305 East 47th St
New York, NY 10017
Dr. Berkowitz's office will confirm which location your procedure is scheduled at. Transportation will be provided — the company will contact you the day before surgery.
Dr. Dov J. Berkowitz, MD
Dr. Dov J. Berkowitz, MD, founder of Advanced Orthopaedics, PLLC, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon who has dedicated his life to healing by providing high-quality medical care and personal attention — before, during, and after surgery. With four decades of experience in orthopaedic medicine, Dr. Berkowitz understands that acute, accident, and sports-related injuries can be incredibly debilitating. He takes a holistic treatment approach to heal each patient's injuries and place them on a path to recovery and long-term wellness.
Training & Background
Dr. Berkowitz began his career in 1983 at the prestigious Mount Sinai Hospital in New York as a Chief Resident of Orthopaedic Surgery. The following year, he completed his fellowship training in arthroscopic surgery — learning from some of the brightest minds in orthopaedic medicine, who inspired him to become the highly respected surgeon he is today.
Areas of Expertise
- Renowned expert in shoulder and knee arthroscopic surgery
- Sports medicine — treating athletes at all levels
- Hip, knee, and hand osteoarthritis
- Acute and accident-related orthopaedic injuries
- Minimally invasive techniques using the latest technology
Recognition
Dr. Berkowitz was recognized with the Vitals Patients' Choice Award and the Compassionate Doctor Recognition for three consecutive years (2012, 2013, and 2014). The Patients' Choice Award is granted to only the top 5% of doctors nationwide annually, honoring the positive impact made on patients' lives. The Compassionate Doctor Recognition is awarded to physicians highly rated for their bedside manner and commitment to treating patients with kindness and respect.
Dr. Berkowitz is a proud member of the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA).
Our Locations
Queens
80-02 Kew Gardens Rd, 5th Floor
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
Brooklyn
50 Court St, 11th Fl, Suite 1108-09
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Bronx
2356 University Ave
Bronx, NY 10468
Long Island
393 Old Country Road, Suite 303
Carle Place, NY 11514
Ask Us Anything
Our AI assistant — trained on Dr. Berkowitz's actual surgical instructions — can answer your questions about the procedure, recovery, preparation, and more. For urgent concerns, call us at 718-575-5454.