Overview
Breast implants, also known as breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size, shape, and fullness of the breasts using implants or fat transfer. It is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries worldwide and has gained immense popularity in South Korea, a global hub for aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
Women choose this procedure for various reasons, including enhancing body proportions, restoring breast volume after weight loss or pregnancy, correcting asymmetry, or improving self-confidence. In Korea, advanced surgical techniques, cutting-edge implant materials, and highly trained plastic surgeons make breast augmentation safe, effective, and natural-looking.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation involves placing implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles to increase breast size and improve shape.
Types of implants commonly used in Korea include:
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterile salt water, offering adjustable size.
- Silicone Implants: Pre-filled with silicone gel for a more natural feel.
- Structured Implants: A newer option combining saline with an inner structure for natural results.
- Fat Transfer Augmentation: Uses liposuction to move fat from other body areas into the breasts.
What are the Benefits?
Breast implants provide multiple aesthetic and emotional benefits:
✔ Enhanced breast size and shape for improved body proportion.
✔ Restored breast volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.
✔ Correction of congenital breast deformities or asymmetry.
✔ Improved self-image and confidence.
✔ Long-lasting results with modern, safe implants.
✔ Korea offers innovative techniques like minimal scarring incisions and 3D simulation preview before surgery.
Procedure Details
1) How should I prepare for Breast Augmentation?
Preparation includes:
- Medical evaluation and breast imaging (mammogram/ultrasound if necessary).
- Choosing implant type and size with your surgeon using 3D consultation tools.
- Stopping smoking and alcohol at least 2 weeks before surgery.
- Avoiding certain medications such as blood thinners.
- Arranging post-surgery support, since patients may need help for a few days.
In Korea, clinics provide personalized pre-surgery planning and translators for international patients.
2) What happens during the procedure Breast Augmentation?
- The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
- A small incision is made in one of three common locations:
- Inframammary fold (under the breast crease)
- Periareolar (around the nipple)
- Transaxillary (under the armpit, often favored in Korea for hidden scars)
- The implant is placed either under the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular) depending on patient anatomy.
- The incision is then closed with sutures and bandaged.
The entire procedure usually takes 1–2 hours.
3) What happens after a Breast Augmentation?
- Patients are monitored in a recovery room before being discharged the same day or after one night.
- Compression garments or surgical bras are worn to reduce swelling and support healing.
- Most patients return to light activities in 1 week and full recovery within 4–6 weeks.
- Follow-up visits are essential to monitor implant position and healing.
In Korea, many clinics offer luxury recovery centers with 24/7 nursing care for international patients.
Risks / Benefits
Potential Risks:
- ➤ Pain, swelling, or temporary discomfort
- ➤ Infection or bleeding at incision site
- ➤ Implant rupture or leakage
- ➤ Capsular contracture (scar tissue hardening around implant)
- ➤ Changes in nipple sensation
- ➤ Rare complications such as anesthesia reaction
Major Benefits:
- ✔ Improved breast size, shape, and contour
- ✔ Long-lasting enhancement of body image
- ✔ Advanced surgical techniques in Korea minimize risks and scars
- ✔ Boosts self-esteem and quality of life
Recovery and Outlook
Most patients recover quickly and notice significant improvements in breast appearance within a few weeks.
- Short-term recovery: Mild swelling, bruising, and soreness lasting 1–2 weeks.
- Long-term outlook: Results are typically long-lasting; implants usually last 10–15 years before possible replacement.
- In Korea, advanced implant technology and surgeon expertise ensure natural, safe, and durable results.
When To Call the Doctor
Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience:
- ➤ Severe pain, swelling, or redness
- ➤ Persistent fever or chills
- ➤ Unusual discharge from the incision site
- ➤ Sudden change in breast size or shape (possible implant rupture)
- ➤ Shortness of breath or chest pain (medical emergency)
Best Korea Option / Process
South Korea is considered one of the top destinations for breast augmentation surgery worldwide because of:
- Highly skilled plastic surgeons trained in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.
- Cutting-edge implant technology with FDA- and CE-approved brands.
- Minimal scar techniques like armpit incisions and endoscopic placement.
- Comprehensive patient care including pre-surgery 3D imaging, post-op recovery lounges, and follow-up care.
- Affordable yet world-class services, often costing less than in the US, Japan, or Europe.
Top clinics for breast implants in Korea include:
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery Clinic
- ID Hospital (Seoul)
- JW Plastic Surgery Center
- Seoul National University Hospital (for reconstructive cases)
