Table of contents

• Revision Breast Surgery: Correcting Displacement
• Best Clinics in Korea for Implant Displacement
• Your Journey to Revision Surgery in South Korea
• Costs and Comparisons for Medical Tourists
• Patient Experiences and Long-Term Outcomes
• Conclusion
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

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Breast augmentation continues to be a popular cosmetic procedure, but it’s important to recognize that complications can sometimes occur. One of the most notable concerns is breast implant displacement, where the implant shifts from its surgically created pocket. This movement can cause aesthetic dissatisfaction, discomfort, and impact self-confidence. This guide explores breast implant displacement, how it’s diagnosed and corrected through [revision breast surgery](/blog/revision-breast-surgery-korea), what’s involved in pursuing treatment in South Korea as a medical tourist, associated costs, and what patients can expect for long-term outcomes.

Breast implant displacement happens when an implant moves out of its intended pocket. This can develop slowly over time or occur suddenly.

Common Symptoms of Breast Implant Displacement

Patients may notice visible changes, such as one breast appearing higher, lower, or out of alignment compared to the other. There may be a drooping, stretched appearance, or sensations of tightness and pulling. While changes in appearance are common, some may experience unusual implant movement during daily activities—like shifting when lying down or lifting objects—sometimes accompanied by discomfort or tightness.

Physical discomfort is another sign, presenting as pressure, stiffness, or soreness in the chest that can intensify during certain movements. Some patients feel heaviness or odd sensations near the implant.

Nipple changes also indicate possible displacement, with nipples pointing in different directions or becoming uneven. Interestingly, nipples often point opposite the direction of implant movement, helping clinicians pinpoint where the displacement occurred. Visible rippling or wrinkling, especially in thinner patients or those with saline implants, can further signal displacement.

Common Pseudonyms and Types of Displacement

The umbrella term for these issues is implant malposition. The most recognized types include:

• Bottoming Out / Descent of the Inframammary Fold: Implants drop below the intended line, creating elongated breasts and upward-pointing nipples.
• Lateral Displacement: Implants shift outward toward the sides, reducing cleavage and causing asymmetry.
• High-Riding Implants / Implants that Sit Too High: Implants remain too high on the chest, pushing nipples downward and creating an unnatural lower breast.
• Symmastia (Uniboob): Implants positioned too close in the center, merging together and erasing cleavage.
• Double Bubble Deformity: Natural breast tissue appears to hang over the implant, producing two contours or "bubbles."

While not a direct synonym, Breast Implant Illness (BII) describes a collection of systemic symptoms—including fatigue and joint pain—that some believe are linked to implants, regardless of type. Often, removing implants brings relief for these symptoms.

Implant displacement might also appear alongside other complications, such as capsular contracture—a tightening of scar tissue around the implant. Effectively correcting displacement often involves treating these underlying causes, emphasizing the value of working with an experienced revision surgeon.

Key Causes of Implant Displacement

Common reasons for displacement include:

• Improper Implant Placement or Pocket Creation: An imprecisely made pocket during initial surgery allows implants to migrate.
• Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue tightening distorts and moves the implant.
• Gravity and Aging: Skin thins and breast tissue weakens with age, and gravity can pull implants downward.
• Physical Trauma: Accidental impacts to the chest can dislodge implants.
• Muscle Pull: When implants are under the muscle, activity and muscle contractions can shift them sideways.
• Implant Characteristics: Larger and saline-filled implants are more likely to shift downward, and those placed over the muscle are at a greater risk of displacement.
• Weight Fluctuations and Pregnancy: Changes in breast tissue due to body weight or pregnancy can move implants out of place.

Revision Breast Surgery: Correcting Displacement

Revision breast surgery, also called secondary breast surgery or a breast implant redo, corrects or improves the outcome of previous breast surgeries. When displacement is significant, revision surgery is usually necessary to restore symmetry, comfort, and overall breast appearance.

Detailed Surgical Techniques for Displacement Correction

Surgeons have a variety of techniques at their disposal:

• Implant Exchange: Removing and replacing existing implants to achieve uniformity or accommodate a new desired size or shape.
• Pocket Modification / Periprosthetic Pocket Reconfiguration: Adjusting the implant pocket so the implant sits securely. This might include:
  • Capsulorrhaphy: Tightening the capsule to prevent excess movement.
  • Capsulotomy/Capsulectomy: Incising or removing scar tissue if it’s constricting the implant.
  • Enlargement of Pocket: Expanding the space to correct high-riding implants.
• Conversion of Implant Plane: Moving the implant’s position relative to the chest muscle (under or over) to fix displacement.
• Neopectoral Pocket Creation: Creating a new implant pocket, especially useful for tricky or recurrent lateral slips.
• Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) / Mesh: Adding supportive tissue matrices for extra reinforcement, stability, and better healing.
• Incision Types: Surgeons often use the original incision site to minimize scarring, but may use breast lift incisions if sagging is also present.

General Recovery Expectations and Tips

After revision breast surgery, patients should expect some soreness, swelling, bruising, and tightness. These symptoms usually peak in the first week, with swelling decreasing over several weeks. The typical recovery period is one to two weeks, with older patients sometimes needing a bit longer. Walking and light arm activity may begin within a week; moderate exercise resumes after three weeks; and full exercise is usually cleared by six weeks.

Key tips for smoother recovery include:

• Seek Assistance: Arrange help with chores for the first few days.
• Maintain Hydration: Drink clear fluids and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Prioritize Rest: Adequate sleep and relaxation aid in healing.
• Prepare Meals: Stocking up on high-protein, balanced meals in advance is helpful.
• Gentle Walks: Short daily walks once cleared help circulation.
• Adhere to Instructions: Follow all aftercare advice, including sleep positions and wearing support garments as directed.
• Implement Scar Care: Begin scar treatment once approved.
• Manage Medications: Follow the medication plan, including preemptive constipation care.

Strict attention to these details helps support healing, particularly for those whose bodies may not recover as quickly as when they first underwent augmentation.

Best Clinics in Korea for Implant Displacement

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for implant displacement:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website	For patients seeking the most reliable correction of implant displacement in Korea—whether involving breast implants or nasal implants—THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, stands apart for its unmatched blend of specialist expertise, academic leadership, and end-to-end care. Board-certified breast augmentation specialist Dr. Lee brings top-tier hospital experience, including service as a Surgery Specialist at Seoul National University Hospital, and a track record of natural, long-lasting outcomes backed by active engagement in Korea’s leading plastic surgery societies. Complementing this, Dr. Kim—an award-winning researcher in 3D implants, renowned rhinoplasty and facial contouring expert, and organizer of annual educational programs for surgeons—adds precision planning and implant insight critical to stabilizing and harmonizing displaced implants. The team is led alongside Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, whose global lectures and emphasis on combining function with beauty ensure solutions that are both durable and aesthetically balanced. Housed in a four-floor facility designed for seamless consultations, surgery, and postoperative care, THEPLUS surgeons are prolific researchers and educators who contribute to journals, books such as Dr. Kim’s Rebuilding Nose, and international symposiums, with active participation in societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This culture of safety, scholarship, and personalized communication translates into meticulous revision strategies and consistently high patient satisfaction.	Meticulous revision strategies; stabilization and harmonization of displaced implants through precision planning and implant insight; leadership by Dr. Lee, Dr. Kim, and Dr. Jeong with a four-floor facility for seamless care; active researchers and educators with involvement in plastic surgery societies; high patient satisfaction.
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as Korea’s top choice for preventing and correcting implant displacement by combining award‑winning expertise with meticulous, technology‑driven planning and precision surgery. Led by Dr. Lee Hyeong‑Min—recognized among the Top 100 Good Doctors in Korea, with more than 16 years of experience and over 2,300 breast surgeries—Seojin brings one‑doctor, end‑to‑end care to every case, ensuring accountability and consistency from consultation to recovery. Their Microscale Dual Plane technique and 3D spatial dissection deliver exact pocket control that resists lateral or inferior drift, while intraoperative sizers fine‑tune symmetry, projection, and implant positioning before final placement. For patients with sagging or malposition, Seojin’s scar‑sparing correction approach, including specialized implants like Mentor Boost, restores natural contours without traditional lift scars, and hybrid augmentation with targeted fat grafting (supported by PRP to improve graft survival) enhances soft‑tissue support around the implant for added stability. Preoperatively, 3D implant modeling and a free trial‑bra service help select the optimal implant brand, type, and size to match chest anatomy and reduce future displacement risks. Ranked No. 1 in the Breast Augmentation category at the KBS N Korea Broadcasting Brand Awards and actively engaged with Motiva and Mentor academic forums, Seojin consistently applies the latest implant science to deliver durable, balanced results in both primary and revision implant displacement cases.	Microscale Dual Plane technique and 3D spatial dissection deliver exact pocket control that resists drift; intraoperative sizers fine‑tune symmetry, projection, and implant positioning; scar‑sparing correction with Mentor Boost implants; hybrid augmentation with targeted fat grafting supported by PRP; 3D implant modeling and free trial‑bra service preoperatively; No. 1 KBS N Korea Broadcasting Brand Awards recipient; active engagement with Motiva and Mentor academic forums; durable results in primary and revision displacement cases.
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic’s specialized Breast Center is a trusted destination in Korea for evaluating and correcting implant displacement. Led by Dr. Cho—renowned for breast surgery expertise, continuous research, and publications—the team delivers precise, individualized solutions spanning standard augmentation through complex cases that many clinics cannot perform, including severe reductions, breast lifts, and nipple correction. Guided by sincerity and meticulous planning, the clinic applies cutting-edge techniques to restore balance and stability while tailoring each treatment to a patient’s unique anatomy and goals. With a comprehensive aftercare system focused on natural, lasting results, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic supports patients through every step of their transformation—from consultation to recovery. A team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon, ensures compassionate, detail-driven care designed to optimize outcomes in implant displacement correction and related breast procedures.	Cutting-edge techniques to restore balance and stability; individualized solutions spanning standard augmentation to complex cases (severe reductions, lifts, nipple correction); comprehensive aftercare and compassionate, detail-driven care by a renowned female surgeon.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

For patients seeking the most reliable correction of implant displacement in Korea—whether involving breast implants or nasal implants—THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, stands apart for its unmatched blend of specialist expertise, academic leadership, and end-to-end care. Board-certified breast augmentation specialist Dr. Lee brings top-tier hospital experience, including service as a Surgery Specialist at Seoul National University Hospital, and a track record of natural, long-lasting outcomes backed by active engagement in Korea’s leading plastic surgery societies. Complementing this, Dr. Kim—an award-winning researcher in 3D implants, renowned rhinoplasty and facial contouring expert, and organizer of annual educational programs for surgeons—adds precision planning and implant insight critical to stabilizing and harmonizing displaced implants. The team is led alongside Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, whose global lectures and emphasis on combining function with beauty ensure solutions that are both durable and aesthetically balanced. Housed in a four-floor facility designed for seamless consultations, surgery, and postoperative care, THEPLUS surgeons are prolific researchers and educators who contribute to journals, books such as Dr. Kim’s Rebuilding Nose, and international symposiums, with active participation in societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This culture of safety, scholarship, and personalized communication translates into meticulous revision strategies and consistently high patient satisfaction.

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

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as Korea’s top choice for preventing and correcting implant displacement by combining award‑winning expertise with meticulous, technology‑driven planning and precision surgery. Led by Dr. Lee Hyeong‑Min—recognized among the Top 100 Good Doctors in Korea, with more than 16 years of experience and over 2,300 breast surgeries—Seojin brings one‑doctor, end‑to‑end care to every case, ensuring accountability and consistency from consultation to recovery. Their Microscale Dual Plane technique and 3D spatial dissection deliver exact pocket control that resists lateral or inferior drift, while intraoperative sizers fine‑tune symmetry, projection, and implant positioning before final placement. For patients with sagging or malposition, Seojin’s scar‑sparing correction approach, including specialized implants like Mentor Boost, restores natural contours without traditional lift scars, and hybrid augmentation with targeted fat grafting (supported by PRP to improve graft survival) enhances soft‑tissue support around the implant for added stability. Preoperatively, 3D implant modeling and a free trial‑bra service help select the optimal implant brand, type, and size to match chest anatomy and reduce future displacement risks. Ranked No. 1 in the Breast Augmentation category at the KBS N Korea Broadcasting Brand Awards and actively engaged with Motiva and Mentor academic forums, Seojin consistently applies the latest implant science to deliver durable, balanced results in both primary and revision implant displacement cases.

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

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic’s specialized Breast Center is a trusted destination in Korea for evaluating and correcting implant displacement. Led by Dr. Cho—renowned for breast surgery expertise, continuous research, and publications—the team delivers precise, individualized solutions spanning standard augmentation through complex cases that many clinics cannot perform, including severe reductions, breast lifts, and nipple correction. Guided by sincerity and meticulous planning, the clinic applies cutting-edge techniques to restore balance and stability while tailoring each treatment to a patient’s unique anatomy and goals.

With a comprehensive aftercare system focused on natural, lasting results, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic supports patients through every step of their transformation—from consultation to recovery. A team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon, ensures compassionate, detail-driven care designed to optimize outcomes in implant displacement correction and related breast procedures.

Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Your Journey to Revision Surgery in South Korea

South Korea is a leading hub for plastic surgery and medical tourism, drawing patients from around the globe.

Why Consider South Korea for Medical Tourism?

• World-Class Expertise: South Korea has the world’s highest number of plastic surgery specialists per capita and commands a large share of the global aesthetic market. Surgeons are board-certified and keep up to date on best practices.
• High Safety Standards and Advanced Facilities: Accredited clinics feature advanced operating rooms and technologies with rigorous safety protocols.
• Competitive Pricing: Costs are generally lower than in Western countries, without sacrificing quality.
• Patient-Centered Care and Support: International patients benefit from English-speaking coordinators, translators, and 24/7 care—from consultation to post-operative management, including help with online follow-ups. Patients can often access recovery-specific lodging, IV therapies, and wellness care.
• Cultural Acceptance and Innovation: The industry is bolstered by a progressive culture, quick adoption of new trends, and innovation in techniques.
• Popular Destination: 2023 saw over 600,000 international medical tourists in South Korea, with plastic surgery clinics—especially in Seoul—receiving half of these visitors.

Step-by-Step Process for International Patients

Virtual consultations and AI simulations have made it easier for international patients to confidently plan their procedures before traveling. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

Step	Description	Key Considerations
Research Clinics & Surgeons	Shortlist clinics specializing in revision surgery, check reviews, and examine before-and-after photos.	Confirm board certifications and inquire about support services.
Book Virtual Consultation	Submit photos/medical history and discuss treatment options, recovery, and pricing via video call.	Compare transparency, responsiveness, and technology offered (e.g., 3D modeling).
Choose Right Travel Time	Avoid Korean holidays when clinics are busiest, and plan for mild weather.	Plan to arrive several days before surgery and stay 10–14 days after.
Secure Visa (If Needed)	Contact your local Korean embassy for requirements; clinics may assist with paperwork.	Medical visas may be needed for extended stays.
Book Flights & Accommodation	Choose flexible flights and accommodations located near your clinic.	Recovery hotels with medical support are available.
Pre-Arrival Checklist & On-Site Prep	Confirm all appointments, upload required documents, and plan payment methods.	Prep meals and discuss supplement support with your surgeon.
Post-Surgery Recovery Planning	Schedule downtime; expect peak swelling in the first few days, with staples or stitches out by day 4–7.	Avoid alcohol, smoking, and excess salt. Routine follow-ups are essential; budget for an extended stay.

Costs and Comparisons for Medical Tourists

Financial planning is crucial for international patients considering revision breast surgery.

Estimated Costs for Revision Breast Surgery in South Korea

Typical costs range from ₩13,000,000–₩22,000,000 KRW ($8,944–$15,500 USD), but some estimates note average costs between $5,000–$10,000 USD. This generally includes surgical fees, anesthesia, pre- and post-surgical tests, and care. The final bill varies according to procedure complexity, the surgeon’s reputation, clinic amenities, and other supporting services.

Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. Other Popular Medical Tourism Destinations

Here’s a comparison of average breast implant revision costs by country:

Country	Estimated Cost Range (USD)	Notes
South Korea	$5,000 – $15,500	Includes most fees and follow-up care.
USA	$1,999 – $15,000+	Lower costs may not include all fees; typically pricier in major cities.
UK	$4,400 – $13,700	Often covers comprehensive care.
Thailand	$3,050 – $6,820	Lower costs draw many international patients.
Turkey	$3,400 – $5,100	Competitive prices, experienced professionals, and accredited clinics.

Prices vary depending on exchange rates, clinic, and procedure complexity.

Comparison Analysis from a Medical Tourist's Perspective

While South Korea isn’t always the lowest-cost destination, it balances affordability with top-tier medical care, advanced facilities, and outstanding patient support. Some places like Thailand and Turkey may offer cheaper options, but Korean clinics attract patients seeking a specialized and highly integrated experience. In contrast, the USA and UK tend to have higher costs overall, especially as most cosmetic procedures are not insurance-covered.

Factors Influencing the Total Cost

Outside base surgical fees, the following can affect total costs:

• Surgeon’s Qualifications and Reputation
• Anesthesia and Facility Fees
• Type and Size of Implant
• Complexity of Procedure
• Pre- and Post-Operative Care, Including Special Garments
• Travel, Accommodation, and Living Expenses for Medical Tourists
• Clinic’s Reputation and Location

Patient Experiences and Long-Term Outcomes

Revision breast surgery can dramatically improve both physical contours and psychological well-being.

How Revision Surgery Addresses Displacement Issues

• Restoring Symmetry and Appearance: Surgery fixes implant position for natural contours.
• Correcting Nipple Position: Precise adjustments realign nipples for better symmetry.
• Alleviating Discomfort: Revision relieves tightness, pain, and pressure.
• Boosting Confidence: Improved self-image is a frequently reported outcome.

Common Reasons Patients Seek Revision for Displacement

Aside from visible change, patients pursue revision for alignment improvements, relief from discomfort, or a change in implant type or size. Complications like capsular contracture or rupture also often drive revision decisions.

Patient Satisfaction and Expected Long-Term Results

Satisfaction rates for breast revision are high—some reports note 94.6% approval, even with complex cases or multiple revisions. Many patients achieve pleasing, natural results after more than one surgery, which speaks to the importance of working with a surgeon skilled specifically in revision procedures.

It's important to note that implants are not lifetime devices. On average, they last 10–20 years, and age, weight changes, or new issues may mean additional procedures are necessary in the future.

Important Considerations for Maintaining Results and Long-Term Success

• Surgeon’s Skill and Experience: Choose your revision surgeon carefully.
• Diligent Post-Operative Care: Follow recovery protocols, attend checkups, and prioritize healthy living.
• Proper Support: Wear recommended bras to minimize implant strain.
• Routine Exams: Regular screenings help monitor implant integrity and health.
• Awareness of Possible Risks: Each surgery, including revisions, brings risks such as infection, numbness, poor healing, and less-than-ideal scarring. Discuss these thoroughly with your surgeon.

Conclusion

Breast implant displacement is a significant concern that can impact both aesthetics and comfort, but it is manageable. With a thorough understanding of causes and correction options, patients can make confident choices about revision breast surgery. South Korea offers a highly integrated, expert-driven, and supportive medical tourism environment, balancing cost with exceptional quality. Viewing implants as a long-term commitment and adhering to post-operative protocols help ensure patients achieve satisfying, lasting results that improve both appearance and overall well-being.

References

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