Favian Su, MD

Clinical Care 

Dr. Favian Su is an orthopaedic 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. Dr. 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. Committed to delivering patient-centered care, Dr. Su develops individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s goals and lifestyle. He incorporates the latest advancements in shoulder and elbow surgery to optimize patient recovery and maximize long-term outcomes. 

Academic Leadership  

Dr. Su is a member of the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES). He is an editor for the Arthroscopy Journal 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 for Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 

Education and Training  

Dr. Su earned a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering and Materials Science and Engineering with High Honors from the UC Berkeley. He received his MD with High Honors from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. Dr. Su completed his residency training in Orthopaedic Surgery at UCSF and received the Mauer Award for Outstanding Chief Resident. He then completed his fellowship in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery at the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute in Philadelphia.  

Research and Service  

Dr. Su’s research 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, which 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. 

Dr. Su will see patients at the Orthopaedic Institute in the UCSF Mission Bay Campus and at the Redwood Shores Specialty Clinic.