Table of contents

• Revision Liposuction: A Detailed Medical Procedure
• Best Clinics in Korea for Post Implant Malposition
• The Process of Undergoing Revision Liposuction in South Korea
• Cost Analysis: Revision Liposuction in South Korea vs. Other Countries
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Malposition with Revision Liposuction
• Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
• References

Breast implant malposition is a common complication after breast augmentation surgery. It happens when breast implants shift from their original placement, disrupting the intended look. This displacement can cause visible distortions, physical discomfort, and emotional distress, affecting not just appearance but also a patient’s self-esteem and overall well-being.

Common Pseudonyms and Types of Malposition

Patients often describe implant displacement with terms like "implant moved from pocket" or "uniboob." Medically, malposition is classified by the direction the implant moves:

• Inferior Malposition ("Bottoming Out" or "Double Bubble"): The implant drops too low, often below the inframammary fold (IMF), causing fullness in the lower breast and emptiness above. Sometimes, two parallel folds appear under the breast, creating the "double bubble" look. This is the most common malposition type.
• Superior Malposition ("Riding High"): The implant sits too high on the chest, either because it didn’t settle properly or scar tissue blocks its descent, resulting in an unnatural elevated appearance.
• Lateral Malposition ("Lateral Slide to Armpits"): The implant shifts outward toward the armpits, making breasts look widely spaced.
• Medial Malposition ("Symmastia" or "uniboob"): Implants move too close to the center, sometimes merging visually.
• Rotational Malposition: The implant rotates within its pocket, which can distort breast shape if rotation exceeds 30 to 60 degrees.

Key Causes of Implant Displacement

Malposition usually results from multiple factors:

• Surgical Technique: Poorly created implant pockets—too large, asymmetrical, or improperly dissected—allow implants to move freely. Over-dissection near the sternum can weaken medial tissue, causing implants to migrate centrally.
• Implant Characteristics: Larger, heavier implants stretch tissues more, increasing displacement risk. Smooth implants tend to shift more than textured ones, though textured implants carry other risks.
• Anatomical Factors: Skin elasticity, breast tissue thickness, and chest muscle positioning affect implant support. Thin skin or minimal breast tissue offers less natural support.
• Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue tightening around the implant can distort its shape and position.
• Post-Surgical Care: Early strenuous activity or trauma can disrupt healing and cause shifting. Following surgeon guidelines, including wearing support garments, is essential.
• Natural Changes Over Time: Aging, pregnancy, weight changes, and tissue stretching can lead to late-onset malposition.

Incidence and the Need for Revision

Breast augmentation mammoplasty (BAM) is the most common cosmetic surgery worldwide. Despite its popularity, breast implant malposition (BIM) accounts for a significant portion of reoperations—4.7%-5.2% after primary BAM and about 10% after revision BAM for severe cases. Considering all severity levels, the incidence is likely higher, highlighting the frequent need for revision surgery.

This prevalence shows that breast augmentation is often a lifelong journey, not a one-time event. Patients should be aware of potential future corrections. Surgeons face ongoing challenges in achieving stable, lasting implant positioning despite advances in techniques and materials.

Malposition’s causes are complex and intertwined. Correction usually requires a tailored approach combining pocket repair (e.g., capsulorrhaphy), implant exchange, and tissue reinforcement (e.g., biological scaffolds like ADM or SERI). Consulting an experienced surgeon for a thorough assessment is crucial, as simple repositioning often isn’t enough. The success of revision depends heavily on the initial surgery and individual healing responses.

Revision Liposuction: A Detailed Medical Procedure

Definition and Purpose of Revision Liposuction

Revision liposuction is a specialized corrective surgery aimed at improving or perfecting results from previous liposuction. Its goal is to smooth contour irregularities, fix asymmetries, and refine body shape caused by the initial procedure. Unlike primary liposuction, which removes excess fat, revision liposuction addresses cosmetic issues like lumps or unevenness that developed afterward. This requires a different approach due to altered tissues and scar formation.

Why Revision Liposuction is Needed

People seek revision liposuction mainly because they’re unhappy with their initial results. Common reasons include:

• Uneven Fat Removal: Lumpy, asymmetrical, or irregular contours left behind.
• Over- or Under-Removal of Fat: Too much fat causes depressions; too little leaves unwanted deposits.
• Skin Laxity: Loose or sagging skin affecting appearance, sometimes needing tightening.
• Scar Tissue: Scarring from the first surgery causing unevenness.
• Weight Changes: Post-surgery weight fluctuations altering results.
• Limitations of Initial Technique: Earlier methods or technology may have prevented optimal outcomes.

Techniques and Methods in Revision Liposuction

Revision liposuction demands precision and expertise to work with scarred or altered tissues. Techniques include:

• Fat Redistribution/Grafting: Harvesting fat from donor sites and injecting it into depressions or uneven areas to restore smooth contours and natural feel.
• Precision Cannulas: Using micro-sized cannulas for selective fat removal and minimal tissue damage.
• Energy-Based Devices: Tools like VASER ultrasound or Renuvion skin tightening help break down fat, smooth contours, and firm skin.
• Skin Tightening: Combined procedures to improve skin elasticity when laxity is an issue.
• Scar Revision: Techniques like layered closure and laser therapy to reduce scar visibility.

The Role of Revision Liposuction in Breast Implant Revision

While revision liposuction mainly corrects prior liposuction results, fat grafting—which requires liposuction to harvest fat—is increasingly important in breast implant revision. Liposuction itself doesn’t reposition implants but provides fat to reshape the breast around or after implant removal.

Fat grafting helps with:

• Filling Depressions and Contour Irregularities: Especially for "double bubble" deformities where implants sit too low.
• Camouflaging Implant Edges and Rippling: Adding volume over thin skin to soften visible implant edges.
• Restoring Volume Post-Explant: Filling concavities after implant removal.
• Correcting Asymmetry: Adding volume to smaller or deficient breasts.

This approach uses the patient’s own tissue for natural, harmonious results. Because revision surgery involves scarred and altered tissues, surgeon experience and artistry are vital. Patients should choose board-certified plastic surgeons skilled in revisions for the best outcomes.

Recovery from Revision Liposuction

Recovery varies by procedure complexity but generally lasts 2 to 6 weeks. Compression garments are essential to reduce swelling and help skin conform to new contours.

Common post-op effects include swelling, bruising, and discomfort, manageable with medication. Light activities can resume after about a week, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. While swelling and bruising improve within weeks, final results may take up to six months as tissues settle. Following all post-op instructions is key to a smooth recovery.

Best Clinics in Korea for Post Implant Malposition

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for post implant malposition:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic	Minimal scarring (1–2 discretely placed incisions), over 30 custom liposuction cannulas, state-of-the-art equipment for stretch mark & skin sagging treatments, Quantificare 3D imaging, bespoke body design, single-specialist exclusive care, Seoul Cheongdam location, four-step aftercare system	High-definition 5D sculpting, advanced contour correction, invisible scarring approach, Quantificare 3D imaging for precise planning, leadership by Dr. An Kyung Chun
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Expertise in complex revision procedures, experienced female plastic surgeon, comprehensive range of services (tummy tuck, arm lift, BBL, fat grafting), individualized and sincere care, cutting-edge and safe methods, all-inclusive support from pre-op to aftercare	Advanced implant malposition correction, latest surgical techniques for both primary and revision cases, seamless combination treatments, highly personalized planning
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic	Located in Gangnam, one-on-one care by Dr. Lee Hyungmin, recognized among “100 Good Doctors in Korea”, 16+ years of experience, advanced technology (3D imaging, high-definition endoscopy), highly personalized consultations, full spectrum of breast procedures	3D imaging for assessment & planning, high-definition endoscopy, custom surgical plans, holistic approach to correction and enhancement

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the premier destination in Korea for addressing post-implant malposition, thanks to its meticulous approach, advanced technology, and the distinguished expertise of Dr. An Kyung Chun. The clinic prioritizes minimal scarring with only 1–2 discretely placed incisions, supported by an unrivaled selection of over 30 custom liposuction cannulas tailored for each patient's unique anatomy. Lydian goes beyond standard contour correction by combining state-of-the-art equipment for stretch mark and skin sagging treatments, ensuring comprehensive care for both aesthetic results and skin health. The adoption of Quantificare 3D imaging offers precise preoperative planning and transparent, reproducible results, trusted even in academic medicine. Every procedure is designed with the patient’s proportions and body structure in mind, eschewing one-size-fits-all solutions in favor of truly bespoke body designs. Backed by the leadership of Dr. An—internationally recognized for innovation in body contouring, author of high-definition 5D sculpting techniques, and a trainer of leading surgeons—patients at Lydian benefit from an exclusive, single-specialist approach and world-class aftercare protocols. Located in Seoul’s prestigious Cheongdam area, Lydian Clinic delivers an exceptional experience with cutting-edge technology, a dedicated focus on invisible scarring, and a four-step aftercare system, making it the best choice for anyone seeking correction of post-implant malposition in Korea.

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

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is a leading destination for those seeking advanced aesthetic and reconstructive procedures in Korea, with a pronounced reputation for managing complex cases like post implant malposition. Under the direction of a renowned female plastic surgeon and a team of specialized professionals, the clinic is dedicated to providing personalized, sincere, and highly precise care. Emphasizing a truly transformative experience, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic ensures that every patient receives tailored treatments grounded in empathy, expertise, and innovative medical technologies. The clinic’s comprehensive program integrates not only corrective and revision surgeries but also holistic care designed for safety, satisfaction, and natural results.

Why Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is the foremost choice for post implant malposition:

• Expertise in Complex Revision Procedures: The clinic’s surgical team handles highly challenging cases, offering safe and effective correction of implant malposition with consistently excellent results.
• Experienced Female Plastic Surgeon: Treatment is led by a renowned surgeon with extensive experience and a commitment to understanding each patient’s unique anatomy and goals.
• Comprehensive Range of Services: In addition to post implant malposition correction, the clinic offers tummy tucks, arm lifts, BBL, fat grafting, and more, allowing for seamless combination treatments if needed.
• Individualized, Sincere Care: Every step, from consultation to post-operative support, is personalized to each client, ensuring optimal outcomes and peace of mind.
• Cutting-edge Techniques and Safety: The team utilizes the latest surgical methods for both primary and revision procedures, prioritizing patient safety and minimizing downtime.
• All-inclusive Support: Patients benefit from thorough preoperative evaluations, clear communication, and attentive follow-up care to promote ideal healing and satisfaction.

For patients facing issues related to breast implant misplacement or seeking correction after suboptimal surgeries elsewhere, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the leading clinic in Korea for safe, expert, and artful solutions.

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

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the vibrant district of Gangnam, Seoul, stands at the forefront of individualized aesthetic care and surgical innovation. Guided by Dr. Lee Hyungmin—an acclaimed surgeon recognized among the “100 Good Doctors in Korea”—the clinic has earned a stellar reputation for excellence in cosmetic procedures, particularly in addressing post implant malposition. Dr. Lee’s hands-on, holistic approach as the clinic’s sole operating doctor ensures that each patient receives thoughtful, comprehensive care throughout every stage of their journey. With over 16 years of specialized experience, Dr. Lee employs the latest technology, including 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy, offering superior precision and safety. Seojin Clinic’s commitment to personalized attention combined with surgical mastery makes it an exceptional choice for those seeking to correct implant malposition and restore natural beauty with confidence.

Why Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic is the Best Choice for Post Implant Malposition:

• Dr. Lee Hyungmin delivers one-on-one, end-to-end care, ensuring consistency and trust throughout the treatment process.
• Recognized among the “100 Good Doctors in Korea,” Dr. Lee brings unmatched expertise and dedication to patient safety and satisfaction.
• Over 16 years of experience in breast surgery and implant correction, with a proven track record of successful outcomes in complex cases.
• Utilizes advanced technology, such as 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy, for precise assessment and surgical planning.
• Emphasizes highly personalized consultations and customized surgical plans based on each patient’s unique anatomy and needs.
• Offers a full spectrum of breast procedures, enabling comprehensive solutions for both functional restoration and aesthetic enhancement.
• Conveniently located in the heart of Gangnam, easily accessible for local and international patients seeking world-class care.

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

The Process of Undergoing Revision Liposuction in South Korea

Why South Korea for Medical Tourism?

South Korea is a top global destination for plastic surgery, attracting many international patients. It offers high-quality care, skilled surgeons, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, especially for aesthetic procedures. Clinics emphasize patient-centered care tailored to medical tourists.

Affordable prices reflect high procedure volumes, healthcare efficiency, and a national focus on patient safety and satisfaction, not lower quality. This makes South Korea attractive for complex revision surgeries.

Step-by-Step Patient Journey

International patients typically follow a structured process:

• Initial Virtual Consultation: Online meetings allow patients to discuss history, concerns, and goals with Korean surgeons before travel.
• Travel Arrangements: Patients plan trips to cities like Seoul or Busan, where major clinics are located near international airports.
• In-Person Consultation and Tests: Upon arrival, surgeons perform physical exams, finalize plans, and conduct medical tests (blood work, imaging, sometimes psychiatric evaluation). Multilingual staff or translators assist communication.
• Surgical Procedure Day: Revision breast surgery, often including fat grafting via liposuction, is done under general anesthesia, lasting 1–3 hours. Surgeons reuse original incisions when possible to minimize new scars. Procedures may include implant removal, scar tissue excision, implant exchange, breast lifts, and pocket adjustments.

South Korean clinics use advanced techniques such as:

• Endoscopic Transaxillary Re-operation: Using FULL HD endoscopes through armpit incisions for precise, scar-minimizing surgery.
• Microscale Dual Plane Technique & 3D Spatial Dissection: For tailored results with less swelling.
• 3D Breast Implant Modeling: Visualizing outcomes pre-surgery to improve planning and patient understanding.
• Hybrid Breast Augmentation: Combining implants with fat grafting and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) to enhance fat survival and reduce inflammation.

These innovations improve precision, safety, and patient satisfaction, making South Korea a leader in complex revisions.

• Post-Operative Care: Patients stay in hospital for 24 hours under observation, with private rooms and thorough follow-up care. Instructions include wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks. Swelling peaks in the first week and resolves mostly by 3–6 months, with final breast shape settling by 6–12 months.
• Language and Logistical Support: Clinics provide interpretation, translation, airport transfers, and accommodation assistance, ensuring a smooth experience for international patients.

Cost Analysis: Revision Liposuction in South Korea vs. Other Countries

South Korea offers excellent value for revision breast surgery and related procedures, combining competitive prices with high-quality care.

Average Costs of Revision Liposuction and Breast Revision in South Korea

• Revision Breast Surgery: Approximately 13,000,000 to 22,000,000 KRW ($8,944 to $15,136 USD as of May 2025).
• General Liposuction: $2,500 to $7,000 USD.
• 360 Liposuction: Around $5,350 to $6,000 USD.

Fat grafting, requiring liposuction for fat harvesting, fits within these ranges when combined with breast revision.

What's Included in the Cost

South Korean clinics often offer all-inclusive packages covering:

• Surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, operating room use
• Overnight hospital stays if needed
• Pre-surgical tests (blood work, imaging)
• Post-operative care and follow-ups
• Accommodation in patient guesthouses or partner hotels
• Airport transfers
• Language assistance (interpretation and translation)
• Sometimes special medical insurance for complications

This comprehensive pricing reduces unexpected expenses and logistical hassles, making the overall experience more predictable and cost-effective.

Factors Influencing Cost

Costs vary based on:

• Surgeon’s experience and reputation
• Clinic location and facilities
• Procedure complexity (implant exchange, capsulotomy, fat grafting, breast lift)
• Implant type and brand

Comparative Cost Analysis for Medical Tourists

Procedure Category	South Korea (USD)	United States (USD)	Europe (USD)	Thailand (USD)	Turkey (USD)
Liposuction (General)	$2,500 - $7,000	$4,000 - $10,000	$3,500 - $8,000	$2,000 - $6,000	$2,000 - $5,000
360 Liposuction	$5,350 - $6,000	-	-	$5,000 (Turkey)	$5,000 (Turkey)
Breast Augmentation	$5,000 - $10,000	$6,000 - $12,000	$5,500 - $11,000	$4,000 - $8,000	$3,500 - $7,000
Revision Breast Surgery	$8,944 - $15,136	-	-	-	-

Note: Data gaps exist for some procedures in certain countries.

Value Proposition: Quality of Care vs. Cost

South Korea’s competitive pricing reflects high procedure volumes, healthcare efficiency, and a strong commitment to patient satisfaction and safety. The all-inclusive packages, extensive post-op care, and logistical support add significant value beyond surgery fees. This integrated approach offers transparency and convenience, making South Korea a top choice for international patients seeking quality plastic surgery at reasonable costs.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Malposition with Revision Liposuction

Patients undergoing revision surgery for breast implant malposition often experience major improvements, both physically and psychologically.

How Revision Liposuction (Especially Fat Grafting) Addresses Specific Malposition Issues

Fat grafting, performed by harvesting fat via liposuction, is a versatile adjunct in breast implant revision:

• Double Bubble Deformity: Fat injections blend the implant with natural tissue, smoothing the contour and resolving the double bubble.
• Rippling or Wrinkles: Adding fat over thin skin softens visible implant edges and surface irregularities.
• Contour Irregularities and Depressions: Fat fills lumps or uneven areas, restoring symmetry.
• Volume Restoration Post-Explant: Fat transfer replaces lost volume after implant removal.
• Addressing Asymmetry: Fat grafting adds volume to smaller or deficient breasts for better balance.

This natural tissue approach allows customized, harmonious results.

Reported Patient Satisfaction and Benefits

Patients report:

• Improved Aesthetics: Balanced, smooth, natural-looking breasts with corrected malposition.
• Enhanced Confidence: Relief from emotional distress, improved self-esteem, and body image.
• Physical Comfort: Reduced pain and discomfort from implant misplacement or scar tissue.
• Restored Symmetry: Achieving even breast size and shape.

Realistic Expectations and Potential Limitations

Patients should understand:

• Fat Graft Survival: Typically 50%-70% of grafted fat survives long-term; multiple sessions (1–3) may be needed.
• Recovery Variability: Healing times differ by individual and procedure extent.
• Scarring: Some new scars may form; existing scars may require revision.
• Not All Symptoms Resolve: Complex issues like Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms may persist despite surgery.

Testimonials and Case Examples

• A patient with "bottoming out" had implants replaced with smaller ones and pocket tightened, resulting in symmetrical, well-shaped breasts.
• Another with wide-set implants and bottoming out underwent pocket repair and breast lift, restoring shape and separation.
• Patients with double bubble deformity achieved resolution after 1–3 fat grafting sessions.
• Many express high satisfaction, praising surgeon skill and improved confidence.

These stories highlight revision surgery’s ability to address both physical and emotional challenges of malposition.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Breast implant malposition is a common complication with various forms and causes, often requiring revision surgery. Revision liposuction, especially fat grafting, plays a vital role in correcting contour irregularities and restoring natural breast shape. South Korea stands out as a leading destination for revision surgery, offering advanced techniques, comprehensive care, and competitive pricing. Patients typically experience significant aesthetic, physical, and psychological benefits after revision.

Choosing a board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Careful pre-operative planning and strict adherence to post-operative care protocols maximize the chances of a successful, lasting outcome.

References

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