YONSEI BARO CHUK HOSPITAL

Shoulder Widening Surgery
(Clavicle Lengthening)

Shoulder widening surgery, also known as clavicle lengthening, is a procedure for
increasing the width of the shoulders by extending the length of the clavicles
(collarbones). This creates a broader, more proportionate upper body appearance, improving body proportions for bodybuilders, enhancing masculinity in gender affirmation surgery for transgender men, or addressing congenital conditions like clavicle hypoplasia.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia typically lengthens each clavicle by 2 3 cm (total shoulder width increase of 4–6 cm).

Why Shoulder Broadening Surgery
at Yonsei Baro Chuk Hospital?

At YS Baro Chuk Hospital, both the anatomical and aesthetic aspects of the body are considered
through a collaboration between Korea’s finest orthopedic and plastic surgeons.
As an orthopedic hospital, YS Baro Chuk Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities
necessary for a safe and reliable aesthetic bone surgery.

Specialist Anesthesiologist Resident

At Yonsei Baro Chuk Hospital, anesthesiologists are resident for safe administration of anesthesia during surgeries.

We offer tubing/non-tubing general anesthesia options to cater to patients’ needs.
Please inform our medical staff if you have any special requests regarding anesthesia.

Contact us Now for a Consultation!

We will kindly provide detailed information on the procedure,
pricing, and guide you through the booking process.

Surgery
Time
1~2 Hours
Pre-operation
Check-up
X-ray and
CT scan
Anesthesia
Type
General
Pre-Anesthesia
Check-up
Urine, Blood,
EKG
Hospitalization
2 Days

Surgical Procedure

Step 1: The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
Two incisions (typically 3cms each) are made on each side to access the clavicle.
Step 2: The clavicle is cut via osteotomy to separate bone segments, allowing for outward sliding.
Step 3: The bone segments arelengthened and secured with hardware. Sometimes gaps are filled with bone putty orgrafts from the pelvis to promote new bone growth.
Step 4: The procedure is completed by closing incisions and the patient is monitored for healing. Hardware is removed 1 year after the surgery once the desired length is achieved.

Postoperative Care

Immediate Postoperative Period

After the surgery, patients will be hospitalized at least 2 days to be monitored for recovery.
Pain Management

Patients will be prescribed pain medication to manage postoperative discomfort. Using cold compression near the surgical area can help reduce swelling, alleviate pain and discomfort.
Wound Care

Proper care of the surgical site is crucial to prevent infection. Patients will be given specific instructions on how to keep the area clean and how to change dressings.
Activity Restrictions

Patients should refrain from activities that put stress on the shoulders such as heavy lifting, contact sports or strenuous activities during the recovery period, which is typically 3 months.
Follow-Up Appointments

Post-op monitoring of the surgical site is necessary to ensure proper healing of bones. Travelling overseas patients will be asked to send in x-ray images of the surgery site taken at a local hospital, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after the surgery.

Recovery Timeline

Complete recovery may take weeks up to 3 months.
Patients will be asked to gradually increase their activity levels to ensure proper healing of the bones.

First Few Days : Expect swelling, bruising, and moderate pain alongside limited shoulder function.
1-2 Weeks : In the first few weeks after the surgery, arm movements should be kept close to the body. There will be gradual improvement in the range of arm movements.
4-6 Weeks : Most patients can return to normal daily activities, although strenuous exercise should still be avoided.
3-6 Months : Full recovery is expected, with final results becoming more apparent as swelling subsides.

Shoulder Widening FAQ

Who is a good candidate for shoulder widening surgery?

Anyone in good overall health with realistic expectations about the results, and are looking to achieve a more proportionate shoulder width.
What are the common risks and complications?

As with any surgery, there are risks including infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve damage. Also, bone non-union may occur which requires a follow-up treatment.
Will there be visible scars?

The incision (4~5cm) is usually made in a discreet location above the clavicle, and with proper care, scars should fade significantly over time.
Can the surgery affect shoulder function?

With proper bone healing, there are no expected long-term adverse effects on shoulder function.
How soon can I return to work?

Patients typically return to non-physical work within 1-2 weeks. However, this depends on the nature of the job and the individual’s healing process.
Do I need to come in for post-surgery checkups?

Travelling overseas patients will be asked to send in x-ray images of the surgery site taken at a local hospital, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after the surgery.
How long do I need to travel to Korea for Clavicle widening?

Although the recommended hospitalization period is 2 days, we recommend patients to travel to Korea for at least 5 days since recovery varies depending on the individual and doctor's recommendation.
Can I combine this surgery with other procedures?

Yes, clavicle widening surgery can be combined with Pelvic Plasty, rib remodeling or other popular aesthetic bone procedures at YS Baro Chuk Hospital.