Question
I am 46 years old and a few years ago I fell backwards onto my right arm, fully extended.  I never received any medical treatment for this injury. Recently, I began researching my symptoms and I believe that I have a complete long head bicep tear.  From time to time I experience recurring symptoms, though they are not as severe as the original injury, they are still painful.  I went to see my family doctor and was told there is nothing that can be done.  My question is can I still be considered for surgical treatment, and if so, what are the chances for a full recovery of use and strength ?  Also, will surgery eliminate the deformity ?

Answer
Joe,

If in fact you really do have a complete biceps tear, there is nothing to do for it after a few years of it being retracted.  Most surgeons will not touch it.  If it was caught early, then reattachment would have been more likely.   But for cosmetic reasons, you need to have a consult with an orthopedic surgeon, preferrably a shoulder specialist or hand specialist (the hand guys also address biceps tears).  

Good luck with this.

Dr. G