Shoulder replacement procedures By Dr. Dhiraj Marothi Depending on the type of joint damage you have, your doctor may recommend one of the following shoulder replacement options: Anatomic total shoulder replacement. Both the ball and the socket are replaced. The implants resemble the natural shape of the bones. Reverse total shoulder replacement. Both the ball and the socket are replaced, but the implants are reversed. The ball is attached to the shoulder blade and the socket is attached to the upper arm bone. This option typically is preferred if the rotator cuff is severely damaged. Partial shoulder replacement. Only the head (ball) of the joint is replaced. It may be recommended when only the ball side of the joint is damaged.