Breast Revision Surgery in Seoul: Fixing Implant Problems
The short answer
Breast revision surgery corrects problems after earlier breast surgery, such as a hardened capsule, a shifted, rippling or ruptured implant, asymmetry or a wish for a different size, by releasing or removing the capsule, changing the pocket and replacing or removing the implant. In Gangnam it typically costs about KRW 10–20 million, takes 2–4 hours under general anesthesia, and needs about 10–14 days in Seoul.
Key facts
- Common reasons: Capsular contracture, malposition, rupture, rippling, size change
- Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 10–20 million
- Operating time: About 2–4 hours
- Anesthesia: General
- Key techniques: Capsulectomy, capsulotomy, pocket change, implant exchange
- Drains: Often for a few days
- Recommended stay: About 10–14 days
How breast revision fixes earlier surgery
After breast surgery, your body forms a thin layer of scar tissue, called a capsule, around an implant. Usually it stays soft. Sometimes the capsule tightens and squeezes the implant, making the breast firm, high or painful (capsular contracture). The implant can also move out of place, rupture or show ripples, or the two sides can look different. You may also simply want a different size or shape, or prefer to have implants removed.
Revision addresses the cause. The surgeon may remove or release the capsule (capsulectomy or capsulotomy), tighten or move the pocket, change the implant plane from above to below the muscle, place a new implant or remove the implants and lift the breast. Fat grafting can smooth small irregularities. Because scar tissue is already present and the tissues have been stretched, revision is more complex than a first augmentation and needs careful planning.
Most often chosen for and combined with
- A hard, painful or high-riding breast
- Implant rupture confirmed on ultrasound or MRI
- Visible rippling or implant edges
- Asymmetry or bottoming out
- Wanting a different size or implant removal
Revisions are often combined with a breast lift or fat grafting.
The procedure, step by step
Open the old scar
Where possible the surgeon uses the previous incision, often in the breast fold, which gives good access to the capsule.
Treat capsule and pocket
The capsule is removed (fully or partly) or released, the pocket is repaired with internal stitches or moved to a new plane, and a new implant may be placed. Some surgeons use a surgical mesh or acellular dermal matrix for support in thin tissue.
Where the incisions are made
Usually through the old scar; a lift adds incisions around the areola and below.
How the scar heals over 12 months
Revised scars behave much like new ones: pink and firm for a few months, fading over a year.
Recovery timeline
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Soreness, drains, surgical bra |
| Days 7–14 | Drains and stitches out |
| Weeks 2–6 | Support bra; no chest exercise |
| Months 3–6 | Shape settles |
Is it right for you?
A good fit if you
- Have a confirmed implant or capsule problem
- Have imaging results and records from your first surgery
- Have realistic goals for improvement
Another option may suit you better if
- The issue is small irregularities: fat grafting alone may help
- You are within the first 6 months after surgery and still settling
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about recurrent capsular contracture, bleeding, infection, asymmetry, thin tissue and the likelihood of further surgery. If BIA-ALCL is a concern with textured implants, ask how the capsule will be handled and tested.
Breast revision cost in Seoul
Typical Gangnam quotes are KRW 10–20 million, higher with lifts, mesh or fat grafting. See revision vs primary surgery costs in Korea.
Revision vs. first breast augmentation
| Revision | First augmentation | |
|---|---|---|
| Scar tissue | Present | None |
| Operating time | 2–4 hours | 1–2 hours |
| Drains | Often | Sometimes |
| Typical cost | KRW 10–20 million | KRW 7–15 million |
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
What is capsular contracture?
It is tightening of the scar capsule around an implant, which can make the breast hard, distorted or painful.
Do I need to remove the capsule?
Not always. Your surgeon may remove it fully, partly or simply release it, depending on the cause.
Can I have implants removed without new ones?
Yes. Removal is often combined with a lift or fat grafting to improve shape.
What records should I bring?
Bring implant cards, operative notes and recent ultrasound or MRI results if available.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 10–14 days for drain and stitch removal and checks.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.