Medical Tourism Blog
Correcting Chest Asymmetry Post-Scoliosis Surgery: Breast Augmentation Procedures in Korea
Table of contents
- Understanding Chest Asymmetry Post-Scoliosis Surgery
- Breast Augmentation: A Detailed Overview
- Best Clinics in Korea
- Navigating Breast Augmentation in South Korea for Medical Tourists
- Cost Analysis: Breast Augmentation in South Korea vs. Global Destinations
- Patient Journeys: Breast Augmentation for Chest Asymmetry Post-Scoliosis Surgery
- Conclusion
- References
This guide is designed to help patients, especially those who have had scoliosis surgery and now face chest asymmetry—often called a "sunken chest side." It offers clear, compassionate, and expert advice on how breast augmentation can help, covering the procedure itself, the experience of seeking treatment in South Korea as a medical tourist, costs involved, and the positive outcomes patients can expect. While scoliosis surgery corrects spinal curvature, it often leaves or worsens chest wall irregularities, affecting both appearance and mental well-being. This report highlights breast augmentation as a key solution to these post-surgical aesthetic challenges.
Understanding Chest Asymmetry Post-Scoliosis Surgery
Chest asymmetry means one side of the chest looks different in shape, size, or projection compared to the other. This can show up as a depression, protrusion, or general unevenness.
Common Pseudonyms and Related Conditions
The phrase "sunken chest side" usually refers to Pectus Excavatum (PE), the most common congenital chest wall deformity. It involves an inward growth of the breastbone, creating a concave chest appearance. Other names include cobbler's chest, hollowed breast, or funnel breast. This condition results from excessive growth of the lower costal cartilages, pushing the sternum inward, often more on the right due to sternal rotation.
Other related deformities include:
- Pectus Carinatum (PC): Known as pigeon breast, chicken breast, or keeled chest, this less common condition features an outward bowing of the breastbone and ribs. It can be asymmetric, with one side pushed out more.
- Poland Syndrome: A rare birth defect causing lateral rib depression, usually on the right side, with underdeveloped pectoralis minor muscles and breast tissue.
Though usually congenital, trauma can also cause these deformities.
| Deformity Name | Common Pseudonyms | Brief Description | Typical Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pectus Excavatum | Cobbler's Chest, Sunken Chest | Inward growth of breastbone and ribs | Concave or depressed chest wall |
| Pectus Carinatum | Pigeon Breast, Chicken Breast | Outward protrusion of breastbone and ribs | Bowed out or prominent chest |
| Poland Syndrome | Poland's Anomaly, Poland's Syndactyly | Lateral rib depression with muscle/breast underdevelopment | Asymmetric chest, smaller/absent breast |
How Scoliosis and its Surgical Correction Can Influence Chest Wall Appearance
Scoliosis affects the spine and thorax in three dimensions and often coexists with chest wall deformities like pectus excavatum. About 15% of children with pectus carinatum also develop scoliosis.
Spinal fusion surgery effectively straightens the spine and stops curve progression but often doesn’t fully fix rib cage or chest wall deformities. Rib deformities mainly stem from uneven rib development, not just vertebral rotation. Therefore, spinal surgery alone can’t correct rib asymmetry or stop its progression. Post-surgery, rib humps may remain or worsen, especially in younger patients.
Breast asymmetry (BA) is common in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients, often due to chest wall deformity and trunk twisting. Breast asymmetry may stay the same or worsen after scoliosis surgery. Sometimes, rib or chest wall resection during scoliosis surgery can even contribute to scoliosis progression, especially if ribs above the sixth are involved. This shows that while spinal surgery fixes the spine’s structure, chest wall and breast asymmetries often persist, requiring specialized treatments for a balanced body shape. Patients with significant chest wall issues should discuss both spinal and aesthetic concerns before surgery for a holistic approach.
Physical and Psychological Impact on Patients
Chest wall deformities can cause physical symptoms like shortness of breath during exercise, reduced stamina, fatigue, chest pain, and irregular heartbeat. Severe scoliosis (Cobb angle >70°) can limit lung size, causing Thoracic Insufficiency Syndrome (TIS), where thorax deformity impairs breathing.
Beyond physical effects, chest deformities often cause psychological distress. Patients report embarrassment, low self-esteem, and sometimes depression. For young women, visible chest deformities and uneven breasts can be deeply sensitive issues, often hidden from loved ones. This can lead to feelings of being "different" or "not normal," impacting social and intimate relationships. Discussing and pursuing surgery requires courage. Breast augmentation here is more than cosmetic—it’s reconstructive, improving mental health, confidence, and quality of life.
Breast Augmentation: A Detailed Overview
Breast augmentation, also called augmentation mammaplasty or "boob job," is a cosmetic surgery to increase breast size and improve shape. It aims to enhance fullness, projection, and body balance, boosting self-image and confidence. It can restore volume lost after weight loss or pregnancy and correct natural asymmetry. Note that breast augmentation alone doesn’t fix severe sagging; a breast lift (mastopexy) may be needed.
Defining Breast Augmentation: Implants vs. Fat Transfer vs. Hybrid Approaches
Several methods allow personalized results:
- Breast Implants: The most common, involving insertion of implants varying in size, shape, material, and texture.
- Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: Fat is liposuctioned from areas like hips or thighs, purified, and injected into breasts. This natural option suits those wanting minor volume increase or contouring, with enough donor fat and stable weight.
- Hybrid Breast Augmentation: Combines implants with fat transfer for a natural look and significant volume. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) may be used to improve fat graft survival and reduce inflammation.
Types of Breast Implants: Materials, Shapes, and Profiles
Implants vary to match anatomy and goals:
- Filling Type:
- Saline-filled: Silicone shell filled with sterile saline after placement.
- Silicone gel-filled: Pre-filled with cohesive silicone gel.
- Highly Cohesive Silicone ("Gummy Bear"): Viscous, form-stable gel that holds shape, reduces rippling, ideal for patients with less breast tissue like those with pectus excavatum. Textured surface prevents migration.
- Shape:
- Round: Fuller upper breast for a rounded look.
- Shaped (anatomical): Gently sloping, natural breast profile. Especially useful for complex asymmetries.
- Size and Profile:
- Sizes range from ~150cc to 800cc+. About 200cc equals one cup size. Different sized implants are often used to balance asymmetry.
- Profile refers to how much the implant projects from the chest. For pectus excavatum, conservative size and profile prevent implants from moving too close medially.
Understanding Surgical Techniques and Incision Options
Breast augmentation is done under general anesthesia, lasting 1-3 hours depending on the case.
Incision options include:
- Inframammary: Under the breast fold, common and preferred for good access.
- Peri-areolar: Around the areola edge.
- Trans-axillary: In the armpit.
- Transumbilical: Through the belly button (less common).
The surgeon creates a pocket for the implant:
- Submuscular: Under the pectoral muscle, recommended for pectus excavatum with lateral pocket extension to prevent medial migration and improve coverage.
- Subglandular: Behind breast tissue, over the muscle.
Incisions are closed carefully; scars fade over time.
The Recovery Process: What to Expect Post-Surgery
Recovery unfolds in stages:
- Immediate Post-Op (Days 1-3): Patients feel groggy, need someone to assist. Swelling, bruising, discomfort peak around day 3-5 then ease. Ice packs help. A surgical bra is worn 24/7 for weeks. Showering allowed after day 3.
- First Week: Minimal activity, regular short walks indoors, gentle arm stretches, good posture. Office workers can return in 2-7 days. No driving or alcohol for a week.
- Weeks 2-6: Full arm motion allowed after 2 weeks, lifting limited to under 10 lbs for 6 weeks. Cardiovascular exercise resumes after 3 weeks. Strenuous activities avoided for 3 weeks. No submerging incisions until fully healed (~4-6 weeks).
- Months 1-9: Breasts settle and "fluff," shifting to natural shape over 6-9 months. Nerve sensations like tingling or burning may occur but fade.
- Long-Term: Scars improve up to 2 years. Breasts may heal unevenly at first but become symmetrical.
| Timeframe | Expected Symptoms | Activity Restrictions | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediately Post-Op (Day 1-3) | Grogginess, swelling, bruising, discomfort | Bed rest Day 1, limited arm movement, no driving/alcohol | Shower from Day 3, start short indoor walks |
| First Week (Days 4-7) | Discomfort lessens, swelling persists | Minimal activity, no heavy lifting | Return to office work (2-7 days), gentle stretches |
| Weeks 2-3 | Swelling reduces, breasts begin settling | Full arm motion after 2 weeks, no aerobic exercise for 3 weeks | Breasts take shape, return to strenuous jobs (~3 weeks) |
| Weeks 4-6 | Continued settling, swelling mostly gone | No submerging incisions, lifting <10 lbs for 6 weeks | Resume cardio exercise at 3 weeks |
| Months 1-9 | Breasts settle and fluff, nerve sensations | Strenuous activity allowed after 6-8 weeks | Final breast appearance by 6-9 months |
| Up to 2 Years | Scars fade and improve | None beyond healing | Final scar appearance |
Breast augmentation alone often isn’t enough to correct complex chest wall asymmetry due to underlying skeletal issues. Specialized implants and surgical techniques are needed. Shaped, highly cohesive gel implants allow precise volume placement for better symmetry. Textured silicone implants and submuscular placement with lateral pocket extension help prevent migration and rippling, especially in pectus excavatum. This procedure requires surgeons with specific expertise in chest wall deformities, as general cosmetic surgeons may lack the necessary experience for optimal results.
Best Clinics in Korea
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic | Premier choice for chest asymmetry correction post-scoliosis surgery in Korea; Led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin with 16+ years experience; Over 2,300 breast surgeries performed; Personalized care with one-on-one approach; Commitment to safety, accuracy, minimal scarring | Microscale Dual Plane method; 3D Spatial Dissection; 3D breast implant modeling technology; Free implant trial bra service; Hybrid breast augmentation combining implants with fat grafting enhanced by PRP |
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, Seoul; Team includes Dr. Kim, Dr. Jeong, and Dr. Lee; Focus on patient safety and satisfaction; Surgeons active in research and education; Individualized treatment plans tailored to anatomy and goals | Advanced surgical techniques for reconstructive and aesthetic procedures; Expertise in breast surgery for natural, long-lasting results; Treatment of complex chest wall deformities and breast symmetry enhancement |
| Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic | Specializes in chest asymmetry correction post-scoliosis surgery; Led by Dr. Cho with extensive breast surgery expertise; Offers personalized, precise, and sincere care; Team includes a highly experienced female plastic surgeon; Wide range of advanced services including body contouring and scar treatments | Expertise in complex breast procedures including significant breast reduction; Advanced medical techniques for aesthetic transformation; Comprehensive approach to patient-centered care |
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the premier choice for chest asymmetry correction following scoliosis surgery in Korea due to its unparalleled expertise, advanced technology, and personalized care. Led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin, who has over 16 years of experience and was recognized as one of Korea’s Top 100 Good Doctors in 2022, the clinic has performed more than 2,300 breast surgeries, demonstrating a deep mastery of complex chest and breast procedures. Seojin Clinic employs cutting-edge techniques such as the Microscale Dual Plane method and 3D Spatial Dissection to tailor surgeries precisely to each patient’s unique chest anatomy, ensuring optimal symmetry and natural results. Their use of 3D breast implant modeling technology and a free implant trial bra service allows patients to visualize and select the best implant options confidently. Additionally, the clinic’s innovative hybrid breast augmentation, combining implants with fat grafting enhanced by PRP, offers superior softness and contour refinement, ideal for correcting post-scoliosis chest asymmetry. With a commitment to safety, accuracy, and minimal scarring, along with Dr. Lee’s comprehensive, one-on-one care approach, Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic provides a trusted, state-of-the-art solution for patients seeking expert correction of chest asymmetry after scoliosis surgery in Korea.
You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, is a premier destination for patients seeking expert care for chest asymmetry following scoliosis surgery. The clinic is renowned for its comprehensive approach, combining advanced surgical techniques with personalized patient care to restore balance and confidence. With a team of highly experienced surgeons, including Dr. Kim, Dr. Jeong, and Dr. Lee, THE PLUS offers specialized expertise in reconstructive and aesthetic procedures. Dr. Lee, in particular, brings extensive experience in breast surgery, ensuring natural and long-lasting results for patients dealing with post-scoliosis chest asymmetry.
At THE PLUS, patient safety and satisfaction are paramount. The clinic’s surgeons are not only skilled practitioners but also active contributors to the global plastic surgery community through research and education. Their commitment to innovation and excellence is reflected in their use of cutting-edge techniques and individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and goals. Whether addressing complex chest wall deformities or enhancing breast symmetry, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic stands out as a trusted leader in Korea for post-scoliosis chest asymmetry correction, delivering outcomes that harmonize function and aesthetics.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic in Korea is a leading center specializing in chest asymmetry correction following scoliosis surgery, under the expert guidance of Dr. Cho. Renowned for her extensive expertise in breast surgery, Dr. Cho has dedicated years to studying and publishing research on complex breast procedures. Her exceptional skills extend beyond standard augmentation to include challenging cases requiring significant breast reduction—services that many clinics are unable to perform. At Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic, the focus is on delivering personalized, precise, and sincere care, ensuring each patient receives a customized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and aesthetic goals.
The clinic is staffed by a team of specialized professionals, including a highly experienced female plastic surgeon, who together provide a comprehensive and empathetic approach to aesthetic transformation. Beyond chest asymmetry correction, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic offers a wide range of advanced services such as body contouring, breast augmentation and reduction, facial rejuvenation, rhinoplasty, and specialized scar treatments. Utilizing cutting-edge medical techniques and a patient-centered philosophy, the clinic is committed to guiding patients through a transformative journey that enhances both appearance and confidence.
You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
Navigating Breast Augmentation in South Korea for Medical Tourists
South Korea, especially Seoul’s Gangnam district, is a global leader in cosmetic surgery. It boasts advanced technology, highly skilled surgeons, and competitive prices. Lower costs don’t mean lower quality; they reflect high procedure volumes and an efficient healthcare system. Korean surgeons focus on meticulous techniques, minimal scarring, and natural results aligned with Korean beauty ideals emphasizing harmony and balance.
The Step-by-Step Process for International Patients: From Initial Consultation to Post-Operative Care
- Choosing the Right Clinic: Research is key. Verify accreditations, surgeon qualifications, patient reviews, and before-and-after photos. Top clinics include Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery, and Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic.
- Consultation Process: Usually starts online, then in-person after arrival. Surgeons discuss goals, assess anatomy, and recommend implants and incision sites. Many clinics offer translation and multilingual staff.
- Pre-Surgery Preparation: Medical tests ensure health and suitability. Patients avoid blood thinners, alcohol, and smoking before surgery. Plan to stay 1-2 weeks in Korea for surgery and initial recovery.
- The Surgical Procedure: Under general anesthesia, lasting 1-2 hours. Surgeon makes incision, creates implant pocket, and places implant.
- Post-Surgery Care: Patients monitored before discharge. Detailed instructions on pain management, complication signs, and wound care provided. Support bras worn to aid healing.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Essential for healing checks and concerns. Many clinics offer virtual follow-ups for international patients.
Key Considerations for Selecting a Clinic and Surgeon Abroad
For complex chest asymmetry cases, choose surgeons with proven experience correcting breast and chest wall deformities. Ask about their approach to asymmetry, use of specialized implants, fat grafting experience, and preferred implant placement techniques. Ensure clear communication with translation services if needed. Understand what the package includes—post-op care, accommodation, transfers—as these affect the overall experience and cost.
South Korea’s medical tourism often uses all-inclusive packages covering medical insurance, pre-op tests, accommodation, airport transfers, and language assistance. This reduces hidden costs and logistical stress, especially for complex procedures like breast augmentation for chest wall asymmetry, offering a smooth, reassuring experience.
Cost Analysis: Breast Augmentation in South Korea vs. Global Destinations
Typical Costs in South Korea and What's Included in the Package
Breast augmentation in South Korea typically costs between $3,000 and $12,800 USD (about 7,000,000 to 18,000,000 KRW). The average is $5,000 to $10,000 USD.
Packages often include:
- Special Medical Insurance: Covers unexpected complications.
- Medical Tests: Preoperative health screening.
- Accommodation: Patient guesthouses or partner hotels.
- Airport Transfer: Pick-up and drop-off services.
- Language Assistance: Interpretation and translation.
Costs vary by surgeon experience, clinic, and implant type.
A Comparative Look at Costs in the USA, Europe, Turkey, Thailand, and Other Regions
| Country | Price Range (USD) | Key Inclusions/Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| South Korea | $3,000 - $12,800 (Avg. $5,000 - $10,000) | Often includes insurance, pre-op tests, accommodation, transfers, language help; high volume and efficiency. |
| United States | $3,000 - $12,000 (Avg. $6,000 - $12,000) | Surgeon, facility, anesthesia, prescriptions, garments, tests included; other services separate. |
| United Kingdom | $10,000 - $12,000 | High-quality care, strict regulations; may exclude accommodation and post-op care. |
| Europe | $5,500 - $11,000 | Varies by country; package inclusions vary. |
| Turkey | $2,000 - $7,000 | Often includes pre-op tests, post-op care, accommodation, transport; verify credentials due to lower costs. |
| Thailand | $2,700 - $12,000 (Avg. $4,000 - $8,000) | Wide range; confirm package details. |
| Australia | $5,000 - $6,500 (transgender breast augmentation) | Includes consultation; other costs may be separate. |
| Malaysia | $6,000 - $11,000 | Similar to Korea with insurance, tests, accommodation, transfers, language support. |
Assessing the Value Proposition for Medical Tourists
South Korea offers competitive pricing bundled with comprehensive care packages that enhance the patient experience. This includes insurance, tests, accommodation, transfers, and language support, reducing stress and hidden costs. Advanced technology, experienced surgeons, and an efficient system allow high-quality care at accessible prices, making Korea an attractive choice compared to Western countries.
Patient Journeys: Breast Augmentation for Chest Asymmetry Post-Scoliosis Surgery
How Breast Augmentation Specifically Addresses "Sunken Chest Side" and Other Asymmetries
For "sunken chest side" patients, often with Pectus Excavatum, breast augmentation reduces the concave appearance by placing implants wider on the chest to fill the depression and smooth contours. This corrects breast asymmetry, creating fuller, shapelier breasts with defined cleavage, balancing the body silhouette.
In Poland Syndrome, reconstructive surgery with breast or pectoral implants and fat grafting restores symmetry. Procedures like breast reduction or lift on the unaffected side may be recommended. Breast augmentation masks the skeletal deformity but offers significant aesthetic and psychological benefits.
Specialized Surgical Approaches for Complex Cases
Standard breast augmentation often falls short for complex asymmetries due to skeletal and soft tissue irregularities.
Specialized techniques include:
- Shaped Highly Cohesive Gel Implants: Allow precise volume placement for improved symmetry and stable results.
- Fat Grafting (Lipofilling): Adds softness and shape, can be combined with implants for natural outcomes.
- Custom-Made Chest Wall Implants: Silicone implants designed to fill chest depressions without altering ribs, less invasive than orthopedic surgeries, sometimes combined with breast implants.
For scoliosis patients, surgeons may use different implant sizes or profiles on each side to balance asymmetry. This complexity demands surgeons with deep expertise in breast implants and chest wall deformities. Patients should research thoroughly and discuss implant choices and fat grafting during planning.
Patient Outcomes and Psychological Transformation
Patients with chest wall asymmetry post-scoliosis surgery often report high satisfaction after breast augmentation. They gain not just size increase but significant shape and symmetry improvement, addressing a long-standing source of distress.
Psychologically, patients experience less visible chest concavity, better body proportion, improved self-esteem, confidence, and clothing fit. Feeling "pretty and normal" after years of self-consciousness is deeply rewarding. The courage to pursue surgery often leads to profound positive changes in self-image and quality of life.
Conclusion
Chest asymmetry after scoliosis surgery is a challenging issue affecting physical comfort and mental health. While spinal surgery corrects the spine, chest wall and breast asymmetries often remain, causing distress. Breast augmentation offers an effective solution but requires specialized techniques and experienced surgeons to address complex deformities. South Korea stands out as a top medical tourism destination, combining advanced technology, expert surgeons, and comprehensive, all-inclusive care packages that simplify the patient journey. Understanding the deformity and available treatments empowers patients to achieve improved appearance, confidence, and quality of life.
References
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