Breast Augmentation in Seomyeon, Busan
Breast augmentation (가슴확대술) increases breast size or restores volume using silicone gel implants or, less often, your own fat. In Seomyeon, Busan, it typically involves an ultrasound-assisted consultation, then 1–2 hours of surgery under general anesthesia through an underarm, fold or areola incision. Most people return to desk work in about a week; implants need long-term monitoring.
Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:
What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation enlarges or reshapes the breasts. Most procedures use silicone gel implants, placed either partly under the pectoral muscle (dual plane) or above it, depending on tissue thickness. Fat grafting offers a smaller, more natural increase using your own fat. In Korea, the armpit (겨드랑이) approach is popular because it leaves no scar on the breast, often done with an endoscope.
Who is it for?
- Adults wanting larger or more balanced breasts
- Women with deflation after breastfeeding or weight loss
- Those with mild sagging who accept that a lift may also be needed
You should not be pregnant or breastfeeding, and any breast lumps should be evaluated first. Breast implants are not lifetime devices; future surgery for replacement or removal is likely at some point.
What happens at the clinic
- Consultation: measurements of chest width and tissue thickness, breast ultrasound and sizing with trial implants.
- Choices: implant type, size and profile, incision site and pocket are agreed.
- Pre-op tests: blood tests, ECG and anesthesia review.
- Surgery: under general anesthesia the pocket is created and the implant inserted with careful sterile technique.
- After surgery: a support bra or band, sometimes drains, and a check the next day.
Recovery and aftercare
Chest tightness and soreness are strongest in the first 3–5 days. Avoid lifting your arms high or carrying heavy items for a few weeks. Wear the recommended bra, follow any massage instructions and avoid strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks. Implants settle into a softer, lower position over about 3 months. Regular imaging is recommended for silicone implant monitoring, and you should keep your implant card and serial numbers.
Risks and side effects
Risks include capsular contracture (hardening), implant rupture or rippling, malposition, asymmetry, infection, changes in nipple sensation and difficulty breastfeeding in some cases. Textured implants have been associated with a rare lymphoma, BIA-ALCL; many surgeons now prefer smooth implants, so ask about this. Some people report systemic symptoms they attribute to implants (breast implant illness), which is still being studied.
Choosing a clinic for breast augmentation in Seomyeon
- Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon and confirm an anesthesiologist will be present.
- Ask which implant brands and surface types they use, and why for you.
- Ask how they reduce capsular contracture risk (e.g., pocket irrigation, minimal handling).
- Request your implant documentation and a long-term follow-up plan, including ultrasound or MRI.
- Clarify the policy if revision or implant replacement is needed.
Visitor planning
Allow around 7–10 days in Busan before flying. Seomyeon's clinic district is well connected by metro, so returning for checks is easy from most accommodation.
Key facts
- Treats: small or asymmetric breasts, volume loss after pregnancy or weight loss
- Options: silicone gel implants (smooth or textured, round or teardrop), fat grafting
- Incisions: inframammary fold, armpit (transaxillary) or areola edge
- Placement: under the muscle (dual plane) or above it
- Procedure time: about 1–2 hours
- Downtime: about 1 week for office work, 4–6 weeks before strenuous exercise
- Typical NHI coverage: not covered (cosmetic)
Frequently asked questions
How long is recovery after breast augmentation?
Most people return to desk work after about a week. Lifting, high arm movements and gym workouts are usually restricted for 4–6 weeks. Implants soften and settle into their final position over about three months.
How long do breast implants last?
Implants are not lifetime devices. Many last well over a decade, but replacement or removal may eventually be needed due to rupture, contracture or personal choice. Regular imaging helps detect silent rupture of silicone implants.
Underarm or fold incision: which is better?
The underarm approach avoids a scar on the breast, while the fold incision gives the surgeon direct access and simplifies future revision. The best choice depends on implant size, anatomy and the surgeon's experience.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Many people can, particularly with incisions away from the areola and implants placed under the muscle. However, any breast surgery can affect milk ducts or nerves, so discuss future breastfeeding plans before surgery.
What is BIA-ALCL?
Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a rare cancer of the immune system linked mainly to textured implants. It often appears as late swelling around the implant. Ask your surgeon which implant surface they recommend and why.
Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.