Breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction surgery is often performed for patients who have undergone mastectomy, the removal of breast tissue, due to breast cancer. This procedure can help restore the volume, areola, and nipple, ensuring symmetry with the unaffected breast. Each year, tens of thousands of women consider this surgery as a means to address the physical and emotional challenges they face post-treatment.

Breast reconstruction can be achieved through three main methods:

  • Silicone implant correction: Chosen by more than 80% of patients, this method involves the use of silicone implants for breast augmentation. It is a quick and straightforward procedure.

  • Autologous tissue correction: This method combines various techniques, including liposuction with fat grafting, abdominal tissue transplantation to the breast, reduction of the healthy breast’s areola, and the use of these tissues to create new nipples and areolas. There are numerous techniques available, and the choice should be made in consultation with a plastic surgeon.

  • Combined method: The combined method incorporates both implant correction and autologous tissue correction. It can be recommended to achieve symmetry and equal breast size. In some cases, reconstruction can be combined with breast reduction, breast lift, areola correction, or other forms of mammoplasty.

Surgery information

  • Duration: 2-3 hours

  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia

  • Hospitalization: 3-4 hours

  • Return to Normal Life: Within 5-7 days

  • Clinic Visits: 3-4 times

  • Stitches Removal: After 14 days

Women consider breast reconstruction for various reasons

  • Breast cancer treatment: One of the primary motivations for breast reconstruction is mastectomy or breast cancer treatment, which may involve partial or complete breast removal. Reconstruction surgery helps restore the breast’s appearance and volume, significantly impacting the physical and emotional recovery after cancer treatment.

  • Congenital anomalies or trauma: Women who have congenital breast anomalies or have experienced breast trauma may consider reconstruction to achieve a more symmetrical and natural-looking breast appearance. Reconstruction in such cases aims to correct asymmetry or restore the breast after injury.

  • Improved self-esteem and quality of life: Breast reconstruction can greatly enhance self-esteem and overall quality of life for women dissatisfied with their breast appearance for various reasons. Restoring the breast can help them feel more feminine and confident in their bodies, positively affecting their emotional well-being.

Who is a candidate for breast reconstruction surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery is suitable for women who have undergone a mastectomy (breast removal) due to breast cancer or other conditions. It can also be recommended for those with congenital breast anomalies or deformities caused by injuries. An important factor is the overall physical health of the patient and the absence of serious health issues that could hinder the healing process after the surgery.

Why South Korea?

South Korea annually performs more cosmetic procedures and surgeries than any other country in the world. Local doctors are considered the most educated and competitive globally, as only 0.01% of medical school graduates can become plastic surgeons here. Korea’s medical equipment and facilities are on par with the USA and Germany, placing it in the top three countries with the best technical equipment for clinics.

All breast reconstruction surgeries are performed in accredited clinics that have permission to treat foreign patients and have in-house anesthesiologists. All surgeons operating on our patients have between 15 to 30 years of experience and specialize in breast augmentation and soft tissue surgeries, performing no more than 2 surgeries a day. Fill out the questionnaire so that we can calculate the cost of your treatment, conduct a preliminary consultation, and prepare a plan for your trip to South Korea for the surgery.

How to prepare for breast reconstruction surgery in South Korea?

  • Refrain from eating and drinking for 12 hours before the procedure. Take a shower.

  • Avoid taking Aspirin, Ibuprofen (including medications such as Advil or Motrin), and other drugs that may increase the risk of excessive bleeding for 2 weeks before the surgery. Tylenol is prohibited only for 3 days before the surgery.

  • Do not smoke, including hookah and electronic cigarettes. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and can slow down tissue healing. If you smoke, the doctor will recommend quitting smoking before the surgery. Some doctors refuse to perform surgery on smokers due to the high risk of complications. It is unsafe to be around smoking relatives and friends or in public places designated for smoking.

  • Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past illnesses, as well as any recent medications you have taken. Please do not hide this information from the surgeon and coordinators.

  • Visit the surgeon for an examination. To determine treatment options, the doctor will examine the intended area of the surgery, including the position of the nipples/areolas.

  • If possible, bring or send the results of mammography or breast biopsy (if not possible, we will conduct the necessary tests in Korea).

  • Ask someone to drive you to the clinic or help you after the surgery. Driving a car on the day of breast augmentation surgery is strictly prohibited.

  • Place items next to your bed that you may need during rest, such as lip balm, water, a chocolate bar, or a mobile phone.

Schedule a consultation with the clinic coordinator or plastic surgeon today!

You can book a consultation by filling out the QUESTIONNAIRE or by contacting us via any messenger at +82-10-4214-9603.

Surgery process

Before the surgery begins, during the final consultation, the surgeon sketches out the surgical design and discusses it with the patient. They answer any questions that may have arisen for the patient during the sleepless night before the surgery.

Next, the patient is asked to visit the restroom, and the time of the last intake of water and food is confirmed before escorting them to the operating room. A catheter is inserted into the patient’s hand, through which medications used before anesthesia are administered into the bloodstream. The surgical area is disinfected, and the patient’s hands and legs are secured with straps to minimize the possibility of movement during sleep. Blood pressure is monitored, and the anesthesiologist attaches a mask to the patient’s face to check vital signs before administering anesthesia.

Once the medication takes effect, and the patient falls asleep, the surgeon begins the operation.

After the surgery is completed, the chest is thoroughly dried, and a bandage is applied on top for protection from external factors and to secure the position of the stitches. The patient is awakened and assisted in moving to a recovery room for further rest and recuperation.

What to expect after breast reconstruction surgery

After the surgery is completed, a translator or medical nurses wake you up and help you move to your room. Most patients do not remember this moment, and it feels like they woke up in a warm bed – that’s the effect of anesthesia.

In the first 10-20 minutes after waking up, you may experience chills, but this will quickly pass. There is a warming mattress on your bed to make this period more comfortable. There is almost no pain on the first day; it is dulled by pain-relief injections and medications used during the surgery. However, you may feel some swelling in the chest or even the abdomen – this is normal as the body begins its regeneration process.

The biggest discomfort comes from the bandage; it may make it difficult to breathe fully and can feel tight in some places. If you feel this, do not hesitate to ask the coordinator if it’s possible to slightly loosen the bandage in your case. You will stay in the clinic for a few hours after the surgery, with a catheter in your hand to administer medications.

After the intravenous drip is finished and the catheter is removed, the coordinator and medical nurses will check your condition. If you do not experience symptoms like dizziness and nausea, you can start preparing for discharge: change your clothes, collect your medications, and receive post-operative recommendations.

By the evening, pain may intensify. Be sure to place several pillows around your body to prevent chest area trauma during sleep and take the medications prescribed by the surgeon, as they contain pain relief. If you experience a dull ache or feel increased swelling in the chest area, this is normal. Your main task at this stage is to be patient and wait for a few days.

Over the next three days, swelling may increase. Do not be alarmed and continue following the rehabilitation rules. After the drainage tube is removed (depending on the patient’s case, this happens on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd day), you can start taking short walks. The more you walk, the faster the swelling will subside, and your body will recover. Try to spend at least 30 minutes outside each day. By the end of the week, the swelling will start to decrease, and you will feel much better, ready to return to your normal life.

Book a consultation with the clinic coordinator or plastic surgeon today!

You can schedule a consultation by filling out the QUESTIONNAIRE or contacting us on any messenger at +82-10-4214-9603.

Recovery process

Immediate post-procedure: After the breast reconstruction procedure, your chest will be covered with gauze and surgical tape or a supportive bra, depending on the reconstruction method. You can leave the clinic within 5-48 hours after the surgery if you are feeling well.

Days 1-2: Removal of drainage tubes (if present). During this time, you may experience discomfort in the chest, and bruising and swelling may occur. It is recommended to sleep on your back with your upper body elevated. Don’t forget to take your medications, including pain relievers, eat well, and drink plenty of water.

Days 3-7: Swelling starts to subside. Avoid sports activities, and taking a full shower is prohibited. On the third and seventh days, clinic visits are scheduled for post-operative procedures, such as laser treatments for swelling and wound care.

Days 7-14: Further reduction in swelling, possible resolution of bruises, and a return to work and normal life. Regular extended walks are recommended for faster recovery. Sutures may be removed if present.

Days 14-21: Most patients can perform daily activities without discomfort. Continue to avoid intense workouts and physical exercises. You can take showers without restrictions, but keep them under 15 minutes.

Days 21-30: The breast begins to assume its natural position and shape. At this stage, avoid heavy lifting and physical exercises. Continue to sleep on your back.

Days 31-60: Most swelling subsides, and you may see 80-90% of the final results. Scars slowly start to fade.

Days 60-90: You can begin physical exercises, sleep on your side, take baths, and are recommended to apply healing cream to scar areas and wear silicone patches.

Days 90-180: Swelling completely subsides, and the breast takes its final shape. You can swim in the sea, sunbathe, and consume alcohol without restrictions. Scars gradually fade, but daily skin care is necessary for maximum disappearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

We provide our patients with a final cost, including post-operative garments, anesthesia, room stay, medications, and even VAT (which can be refunded as tax-free). The cost of breast reconstruction ranges from 7,500,000 to 18,000,000 KRW depending on the clinic, the need for mastectomy, and the type of correction. Accredited plastic surgeons in Korea warn that the operation's price may also vary based on breast condition, the need for combined procedures, and whether it's a revision or primary correction.

Before & After

Patient results may vary. Please remember that to provide you with detailed information about treatment and your trip, you need to fill out a QUESTIONNAIRE, describe your desired results in detail, and attach your photos. The information provided on the website does not guarantee that this procedure is suitable for you.