Table of contents

• Revision Breast Surgery: Addressing Implant Animation Deformity
• Best Clinics in Korea for Implant Animation Deformity
• Your Medical Journey: Revision Breast Surgery in South Korea
• Costs and Value: A Medical Tourist's Perspective
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes
• Conclusion
• References

Breast implant animation deformity is a common concern for those who have had breast augmentation or reconstruction. This condition causes unnatural movement or distortion of breast implants, especially when chest muscles contract, affecting both physical comfort and emotional well-being. Knowing what it is, why it happens, and how it impacts patients is key for anyone seeking solutions.

What is Implant Animation Deformity?

Also called dynamic breast deformity or dynamic distortion, breast implant animation deformity happens when the pectoralis major muscle contracts, causing the implant to move or distort unnaturally. Patients often describe the implant as "popping out," "squishing," or "rippling" during activities like exercise or flexing the chest muscles. This movement can also cause the skin and nipple/areola complex to shift oddly, leading to an unattractive breast appearance. Usually, the implant returns to normal once the muscle relaxes.

This condition goes by several names, reflecting its different presentations and the evolving medical understanding:

• Dynamic Breast Deformity
• Dynamic Distortion
• Breast Animation Deformity (BAD)
• Jumping Breast Syndrome
• Breast Distortion
• Flexion Distortion

Recognizing these terms helps patients find relevant information and communicate effectively with their doctors.

Why Does It Occur? (Causes, Risk Factors, Prevalence)

The main cause is placing implants under the pectoralis muscle (submuscular or subpectoral placement). This method was popular because it hides the implant better and may reduce some complications. However, when the muscle contracts, it pulls on the implant and skin, causing the deformity.

Other factors can worsen the condition, such as cutting the pectoralis muscle during surgery or using acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in some cases. The deformity is much more common in breast reconstruction patients—affecting 75% to 100% of women with subpectoral reconstruction, with 80% experiencing moderate to severe cases—compared to 15-17% in cosmetic breast augmentation patients.

Patient factors like age, body mass index, or handedness don’t seem to influence the deformity, but active individuals—athletes, weightlifters, dancers—notice it more because their chest muscles contract frequently.

Impact on Patients

Beyond appearance, this deformity can cause pain, muscle twitching, and limited shoulder movement, restricting daily activities. Emotionally, the visible distortion often leads to distress, body image issues, and lowered self-confidence. Nearly half of affected women report daily emotional and psychological impacts. Diagnosis relies on clinical exams and patient reports, with grading systems helping surgeons plan treatment and set expectations.

Pseudonym	Description
Breast Implant Animation Deformity	The most common medical term, describing dynamic movement and distortion.

This table clarifies the various terms patients might encounter, helping them connect their symptoms to recognized medical conditions.

Revision Breast Surgery: Addressing Implant Animation Deformity

[Revision breast surgery](/blog/revision-breast-surgery-korea), or secondary breast surgery, focuses on fixing or improving results from previous breast procedures. While reasons for revision vary, animation deformity is a growing cause, with up to 28% of reconstruction patients seeking surgery for this issue.

Specific Surgical Techniques for Animation Deformity

The most effective fix is changing the implant pocket—moving the implant from under the muscle to above it (prepectoral) or just under the gland (subglandular). This stops the muscle from affecting the implant during contraction.

The surgery involves removing the old implant, detaching the pectoralis muscle from the skin and implant, and securing it to prevent future interaction. A new pocket is created above the muscle for the implant. Although prepectoral placement once had risks like implant visibility or wrinkling, advances—especially using acellular dermal matrix (ADM)—have greatly reduced these problems.

Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) Use: ADM supports thin tissue by reinforcing the skin flap, cushioning the implant, and stabilizing the pocket. Complete ADM coverage in prepectoral placement effectively eliminates animation deformity and improves breast softness and appearance. Perforated ADM can also reduce the need for drains after surgery.

Muscle Repair/Release/Division: Repairing and repositioning the pectoralis muscle restores its function and prevents implant movement. Techniques include releasing or dividing the muscle and reattaching it to the chest wall.

Capsulotomy/Capsulectomy/Capsulorrhaphy: Scar tissue around the implant may be released (capsulotomy), removed (capsulectomy), or tightened (capsulorrhaphy) to improve implant positioning.

Selective Nerve Ablation: Targeting nerves that cause muscle contraction can reduce implant movement while keeping the implant under the muscle if preferred.

Botox Injections: Temporarily paralyzing the pectoralis muscle with Botox limits implant movement as a non-surgical, short-term option.

Fat Grafting: Using the patient’s own fat adds volume, improves shape, and provides extra soft tissue coverage.

Implant Exchange: Often, the old implants are replaced with new ones, possibly of different size, type, or brand to enhance results.

Technique	Purpose
Pocket Change (Submuscular to Prepectoral/Subglandular)	Moves implant above muscle to stop muscle interaction.
Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM)	Reinforces tissue, cushions implant, stabilizes pocket, especially with thin coverage.
Muscle Repair/Release/Division	Restores muscle function and prevents implant interaction.
Capsulotomy/Capsulectomy/Capsulorrhaphy	Manages scar tissue around implant (release, removal, or tightening).
Selective Nerve Ablation	Reduces muscle contraction by targeting specific nerves.
Botox Injections	Temporarily paralyzes muscle to limit implant movement.
Fat Grafting	Adds volume, refines shape, and improves soft tissue coverage.
Implant Exchange	Replaces implants, often with softer silicone types for better feel and look.

This table outlines the surgical options, showing that revision surgery often combines techniques tailored to each patient’s needs.

The Surgical Process and Recovery (General)

Revision surgery usually takes 1 to 3 hours under general anesthesia. Surgeons often reuse previous incisions to minimize new scars but may create new ones if needed.

After surgery, patients are monitored as anesthesia wears off. Compression garments and drains help reduce swelling and fluid buildup. Recovery is often easier than the initial augmentation since the implant pocket already exists. Swelling and discomfort peak in the first week, improving by weeks 2-3, with light activities resuming then. Strenuous chest exercises should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. Final breast shape settles over 6-12 months. Follow-ups are essential to monitor healing and remove stitches. Extensive muscle repair may require immobilization for 1-3 months.

Best Clinics in Korea for Implant Animation Deformity

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for implant animation deformity:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Renowned Breast Center, advanced surgical expertise, patient-centered philosophy, comprehensive aftercare, multidisciplinary team, full spectrum of services, tailored treatment plans	Advanced solutions for severe/complex breast cases, significant reductions, correction of implant animation deformity, holistic individualized care
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Leading Gangnam clinic, board-certified surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, privacy-focused, individualized care, ongoing research and education	Advanced diagnosis and treatment of implant animation deformity, 3D implants, rhinoplasty, comprehensive care, latest advancements in reconstructive surgery
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic	Top-ranked in breast augmentation, over 2,300 breast surgeries, led by award-winning Dr. Lee Hyungmin, one-doctor clinic for personalized care, 3D modeling, exclusive trial bra service, customized treatments	Microscale dual plane techniques, 3D spatial dissection, intraoperative sizer implants, advanced solutions for sagging without breast lift scars, hybrid breast augmentation with fat grafting (PRP), pioneering animation deformity correction

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the premier destination for treating Implant Animation Deformity in Korea due to its renowned Breast Center, advanced surgical expertise, and patient-centered philosophy. Led by Dr. Cho, a leading specialist in breast surgery and an active contributor to medical research, the clinic offers cutting-edge solutions for even the most severe and complex breast cases, including those that require significant reduction—procedures that are often beyond the capabilities of other facilities. Patients benefit from Dr. Cho's exceptional ability to handle both routine and advanced breast procedures, ensuring optimal outcomes for those seeking correction of implant animation deformity. The clinic places a strong emphasis on comprehensive aftercare, designed to promote natural, long-lasting results. Each treatment plan is precisely tailored to the unique goals and anatomical considerations of the patient, reflecting the clinic’s commitment to sincerity, precision, and individualized care. With advanced facilities, a multidisciplinary team of dedicated professionals, and a full spectrum of aesthetic and reconstructive services, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic provides transformative, holistic solutions that consistently deliver outstanding results for patients seeking correction of implant animation deformity.

You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, stands as a leading destination for advanced cosmetic procedures, including the diagnosis and treatment of implant animation deformity. The clinic is home to a team of renowned board-certified plastic surgeons, each with distinguished backgrounds in both clinical practice and academic research. Dr. Lee, recognized for her expertise in breast augmentation and her experience as a Surgery Specialist at Seoul National University Hospital, brings a commitment to natural, long-lasting results. Dr. Kim, an award-winning researcher and educator in 3D implants and facial contouring, and Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons and a global leader in rhinoplasty, further underscore the clinic’s reputation for excellence and innovation.

At THE PLUS, patients receive comprehensive care in a state-of-the-art facility designed to support them from consultation to recovery. The clinic’s four floors are tailored for privacy and dedicated attention, reflecting a philosophy that blends safety, advanced techniques, and individualized treatment planning. Surgeons at THE PLUS are actively involved in ongoing research and education, both in Korea and internationally, ensuring that every patient benefits from the latest advancements in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Whether dealing with complex conditions such as implant animation deformity or seeking cosmetic enhancement, patients can expect the highest standards of expertise, communication, and satisfaction at THE PLUS Plastic Surgery.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, is renowned for its commitment to excellence in cosmetic surgery and individualized patient care. Led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin—an acclaimed expert who was named one of Korea’s Top 100 Good Doctors—Seojin Clinic specializes in advanced procedures for the breast, hair, and body, focusing particularly on cutting-edge techniques for correcting implant animation deformity. With more than 2,300 successful breast surgeries and over 16 years of experience, Dr. Lee ensures an unparalleled level of safety, precision, and artistry for every patient.

Why Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic is the Best Choice for Implant Animation Deformity:

• Ranked No. 1 in the Breast Augmentation Category at the KBS N Korea Broadcasting Brand Awards.
• Over 2,300 breast surgeries performed, showcasing extensive hands-on expertise.
• Dr. Lee Hyungmin, recognized as one of the Top 100 Good Doctors in Korea (2022), personally oversees every procedure.
• Active participant in Motiva and Mentor academic conferences, ensuring the clinic remains at the forefront of implant technology and techniques.
• Offers state-of-the-art 3D breast implant modeling technology for precise surgical planning and customizable results.
• Exclusive free trial bra service allows patients to physically assess implant size and fit before surgery.
• Pioneering microscale dual plane techniques and 3D spatial dissection ensure precise correction of animation deformity, smoother implant pockets, and minimized swelling.
• Utilizes intraoperative sizer implants to guarantee symmetry and optimal shaping, prioritizing patient safety and final results.
• Advanced solutions for sagging correction using specialized implants without the need for traditional breast lift surgery and its associated scars.
• Hybrid breast augmentation option combines implants with fat grafting (with PRP enhancement) for improved softness, natural contours, and reduced inflammation.
• One-doctor clinic ensures fully personalized, attentive care from consultation through surgery and follow up.
• Comprehensive range of breast, body, and skin procedures tailored to individual goals and anatomical needs.

This blend of award-winning expertise, technological innovation, and genuine one-on-one care makes Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic the premier destination for those seeking correction of implant animation deformity and other specialized cosmetic enhancements in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Your Medical Journey: Revision Breast Surgery in South Korea

South Korea is a leading destination for plastic surgery, including revision breast surgery for animation deformity. The process for international patients is well-organized to ensure thorough care from start to finish.

The Process for International Patients

• Initial Virtual Consultation: Patients connect online with Korean surgeons to discuss their history, symptoms, and goals. This helps determine candidacy and plan surgery.
• Travel Arrangements: After scheduling, patients book flights and accommodations, often near clinics in Seoul or Busan. Clinics assist with lodging options.
• Upon Arrival: In-Person Consultation and Tests: Surgeons perform detailed exams and finalize plans. Pre-surgical tests like blood work and imaging are done. Multilingual staff and translators ensure clear communication.
• Surgery Day: Revision surgery is done under general anesthesia. Patients stay in private recovery rooms for 24 hours under observation.
• Post-Operative Care and Recovery: Clinics provide regular check-ups, wound care, and pain management. Patients stay 1-2 weeks for initial recovery and follow-ups. Specialized treatments like Smart-Lux, high-frequency therapy, ultrasound checks, and scar laser treatments support healing.
• Return Home and Long-Term Follow-up: After returning home, patients continue self-care and may communicate remotely with their Korean clinic or local doctors as the breast shape settles over months.

Key Considerations for Medical Tourists

• Communication: Multilingual support minimizes language barriers, ensuring clear understanding.
• Duration of Stay: Plan for at least 1-2 weeks in Korea for surgery and early recovery.
• Clinic Accreditation: Research clinics carefully to ensure safety and quality.
• Travel Logistics: Account for travel time, jet lag, and post-op assistance.
• Understanding Risks: Be aware of medical tourism risks, including possible need for future travel for follow-ups and variable care standards.

Costs and Value: A Medical Tourist's Perspective

South Korea offers competitive pricing for revision breast surgery combined with high-quality care, making it an attractive option for medical tourists.

Cost of Revision Breast Surgery in South Korea

Prices range from ₩13,000,000 to ₩22,000,000 KRW (about $8,944 to $15,136 USD). This usually covers:

• Surgical procedure (surgeon, anesthesia, operating room)
• Overnight stays if needed
• Pre-surgical tests (blood work, imaging)
• Post-operative care and follow-ups
• Additional health tests if required

Costs vary based on surgeon experience, clinic reputation, procedure complexity, implant type, and package inclusions. A 10% deposit is typically required to book.

Comparing Costs Globally (Revision Breast Surgery from a Medical Tourist's Perspective)

South Korea’s pricing is competitive compared to Western countries, often including more comprehensive services.

Country	Price Range (USD)	Typical Inclusions/Exclusions
South Korea	$8,944 - $15,136	Usually includes surgery, overnight stays, tests, and post-op care.
USA	$4,200 - $18,000	Covers surgery, pre-op exams, lab tests, garments, meds; extra costs possible for stays or add-ons.
Mexico	$3,560 - $4,640	Includes hospital stays, consultations, local transport; risks include communication and care standards.
Turkey	$683 - $7,250	Packages may include hotel, transfers, pre-op tests; caution advised due to variable healthcare quality.
United Kingdom	~$5,300 (flat rate)	Basic procedures included; extra costs for meds, recovery, follow-ups possible.
Australia	~$6,880 - $12,384	Covers surgeon, anesthetist, hospital, implant removal/replacement.
Thailand	$3,500 - $9,900	Patients should consider risks related to post-op care and surgical standards.

This comparison helps patients weigh cost against included services and quality.

Additional Medical Tourism Expenses

Beyond surgery, patients should budget for:

• Flights ($800–$1,500 round-trip from the US)
• Accommodation ($70–$150 per night for 1-2 weeks)
• Local transport (subway rides under $2; taxis $5–$20)
• Meals ($6–$20 per meal)
• Visa ($20–$80) and travel insurance ($50–$200)
• Miscellaneous personal expenses and any extra medical tests or care

Planning these costs ensures a smooth medical tourism experience.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes

Revision surgery for animation deformity offers significant relief and improved quality of life.

Addressing Animation Deformity: What Patients Can Expect

The main benefit is eliminating or greatly reducing implant movement during muscle contraction. Studies show high rates of complete resolution.

Patients also see aesthetic improvements: more natural cleavage, better implant appearance, and restored symmetry. Physical symptoms like pain and muscle twitching often improve, allowing patients to resume active lifestyles confidently. The combination of implant repositioning and muscle repair provides a durable fix.

Benefit	Description
Minimized movement of the implants	Ensures implants stay stable during muscle contraction.
More natural-appearing breast cleavage	Creates a smoother, harmonious look.
Improved aesthetic appearance of the implants	Corrects distortion and unnatural contours.
Restoration of breast symmetry	Balances breast appearance.
Long-lasting outcome	Provides a durable correction.
Relief of discomfort	Reduces pain and muscle twitching.

This table summarizes the key improvements patients can expect.

Real-Life Stories: Successes and Improvements

Linda, an athlete, had submuscular implants that caused severe animation deformity affecting function and appearance. Her revision surgery included implant removal, capsulectomy, muscle repair, and pocket closure. By day five post-op, her deformity was gone, and her breasts looked natural and balanced. She was thrilled to return to her active lifestyle without discomfort or self-consciousness, illustrating the profound benefits of revision surgery.

Important Considerations for Patients

• Realistic Expectations: Surgeons use grading systems to tailor treatment and set achievable goals. Honest discussions help align patient hopes with surgical possibilities.
• Surgeon Communication and Expertise: Choose surgeons experienced in complex breast revisions and animation deformity correction. Open, patient-centered communication is vital.
• Patient Selection: Ideal candidates have noticeable deformity with muscle flexion, good physical and mental health, positive self-image, and understand surgical risks.

Conclusion

Breast implant animation deformity causes unnatural implant movement during chest muscle contraction, leading to physical discomfort and emotional distress. Revision breast surgery, mainly by repositioning implants above the muscle and using techniques like ADM and muscle repair, effectively resolves this issue. South Korea offers a well-structured medical tourism experience with competitive pricing and high-quality care. Patients can expect significant improvements in implant stability, breast appearance, and relief from symptoms, enabling a return to active, confident living. Success depends on realistic expectations, expert surgical care, and careful patient selection.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20