What It Is

Implant pocket change from subglandular to submuscular is a breast revision surgery where implants originally placed above the chest muscle (subglandular) are repositioned beneath the pectoral muscle (submuscular or dual-plane).

This procedure is often performed when patients experience complications such as visible implant edges, rippling, capsular contracture, or unnatural results from subglandular placement. In Korea, surgeons use precise dissection, 3D surgical planning, and advanced implant techniques to ensure natural-looking results, improved softness, and longer-lasting outcomes.

Why It’s Done

Patients undergo implant pocket change because:

• Subglandular implants appear unnatural, with visible rippling or implant edges.
• They develop capsular contracture in the original pocket.
• Implants feel hard or uncomfortable.
• They want a more natural slope and projection of the breast.
• The existing placement no longer matches their cosmetic goals.

Good candidates include:

• Women with complications from subglandular implants.
• Patients seeking more natural movement and softness.
• Those in good health, with realistic expectations, and ready for revision surgery.

Alternatives

• Implant exchange only in the same pocket (not always effective for correcting deformities).
• Fat grafting augmentation to camouflage implant edges (for mild cases).
• Explant surgery if the patient no longer wants implants.

Preparation

Before implant pocket change in Korea, patients will:

• Undergo consultation with 3D breast imaging and implant simulations.
• Have breast imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to check implant and capsule condition.
• Stop smoking and alcohol 2–4 weeks before surgery.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications and certain supplements.
• Decide on implant size, shape, and whether to combine with mastopexy (lift) or fat grafting.

How It’s Done

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used.
• Incision: Often through existing scars (inframammary fold or periareolar).
• Implant removal: Old implants are removed from the subglandular pocket.
• Pocket creation: A new submuscular or dual-plane pocket is carefully dissected beneath the pectoralis muscle.
• Implant placement: New or existing implants are positioned in the submuscular pocket.
• Closure: The old pocket may be closed with capsulorrhaphy (internal sutures) for stability.
• Duration: 2–4 hours depending on complexity.

Recovery

• First week: Swelling, bruising, and muscle tightness are common; a support bra is worn continuously.
• Return to activities: Light duties in 1–2 weeks; strenuous activity avoided for 4–6 weeks.
• Final results: Breasts appear softer, rounder, and more natural within 2–3 months.
• Longevity: Submuscular implants often have fewer long-term complications.

Possible Complications

• Muscle-related discomfort or movement distortion (animation deformity).
• Recurrence of implant malposition.
• Infection or delayed wound healing.
• Visible scarring, though minimized with Korean techniques.
• Rare risks: nerve injury or implant rupture.

Treatment Options in Korea

Diagnosis

Korean surgeons use 3D simulations, ultrasound, and MRI to assess the current implant placement, capsule condition, and suitability for pocket change.

Medical Treatments

• External support garments for minor implant position issues (not permanent).
• Non-surgical fat grafting to improve implant appearance in selected cases.

Surgical or Advanced Therapies

• Implant pocket change from subglandular to submuscular or dual-plane.
• Capsulorrhaphy (internal bra) to close and reinforce the old pocket.
• Implant exchange for new size, type, or material.
• Hybrid augmentation (implant + fat grafting) for natural softness.

Rehabilitation and Support

• Scar management with silicone sheets, gels, or fractional laser.
• Long-term monitoring of implant position and capsule health.
• Guidance on supportive bras and lifestyle adjustments to maintain results.
• International patients benefit from Korea’s revision breast surgery expertise, advanced implant options, and personalized aftercare services.