Favian Su, MD

Dr. Favian Su is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and elbow surgery. He cares for patients with a wide range of conditions, including shoulder and elbow arthritis, rotator cuff tears, labral tears, biceps tendon injuries and fractures of the upper extremity. He works with each patient to tailor a treatment plan to their goals and lifestyle, incorporating the latest advancements in shoulder and elbow surgery to optimize patient recovery and maximize long-term outcomes.

Su has expertise in primary and revision shoulder replacement, treating common degenerative conditions as well as complex reconstructive problems. He also specializes in shoulder tendon transfer procedures for patients with challenging conditions.

In his research, Su is focused on improving the function and longevity of anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements. He has been awarded multiple research grants from the National Institute on Aging, Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation and UCSF to support his work. His current research investigates innovative surgical techniques to reduce anterior impingement after reverse shoulder replacement, that can improve motion and reduce pain. He also has a particular interest in optimizing bone health to minimize the risk of periscapular fractures after shoulder replacement.

Su earned his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. He completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at UCSF and received the Mauer Award for Outstanding Chief Resident. He completed a fellowship in shoulder and elbow surgery at the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute in Philadelphia.

Su is a member of the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES). He is an editor for Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery and reviewer for Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. He has published over 40 research articles, reviews and textbook chapters, winning numerous research awards for his studies. In 2026, he received the ASES Robert H. Cofield Award, which recognizes outstanding fellow research. His work has been presented at national and international conferences, including the International Congress on Shoulder and Elbow Surgery.