Treatment Overview
Bilateral sling surgery is an advanced minimally invasive procedure used to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women who require support on both sides of the urethra. Unlike traditional single-sling procedures, bilateral slings provide enhanced stabilization, improving continence and reducing the risk of urine leakage during physical activities. Korea is globally recognized for high-precision pelvic floor surgeries, offering skilled surgeons, modern operating facilities, and comprehensive care for international patients.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of bilateral sling surgery is to restore urinary continence while providing symmetrical support under the urethra. Key benefits include:
- Effectively reduces or eliminates stress urinary incontinence
- Provides stronger and more balanced urethral support
- Minimally invasive with smaller incisions and reduced tissue trauma
- Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay
- High long-term success and durability
- Can be combined with other pelvic procedures if necessary
Korean hospitals tailor the surgical approach to each patient’s anatomy and incontinence severity for optimal outcomes.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for bilateral sling surgery include:
- Women with moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence
- Patients who have failed conservative treatments such as pelvic floor exercises or medications
- Adults in good overall health without active urinary tract infections
- Medically suitable for anesthesia and minimally invasive surgery
Preoperative evaluation typically includes a detailed pelvic exam, urinalysis, and urodynamic studies to determine suitability for bilateral sling placement.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, bilateral sling surgery carries potential risks:
- Temporary urinary retention
- Sling erosion or exposure
- Urinary tract infections
- Pelvic discomfort or pain
- Rare bladder or urethral injury
- Minor bleeding or anesthetic complications
Korean surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize these risks and ensure accurate sling placement.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals employ advanced methods for bilateral sling surgery, including:
- Mid-urethral bilateral sling placement using retropubic, transobturator, or mini-sling approaches
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic or single-incision techniques
- Real-time imaging guidance to ensure precise sling positioning
- Integration with pre- and post-operative urodynamic assessments
- Postoperative monitoring to detect complications early
These technologies ensure effective treatment, minimal discomfort, and long-term results.
Treatment Process in Korea
The treatment process typically includes:
- Preoperative assessment including pelvic exam, urinalysis, and urodynamic studies
- Surgery performed under general or regional anesthesia, usually lasting 1–2 hours
- Observation and recovery in hospital for 24–48 hours depending on patient condition
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing, continence, and sling function
- Pelvic floor therapy may be recommended to enhance recovery
Multilingual coordinators assist international patients with scheduling, travel, and post-operative care.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery is generally smooth due to the minimally invasive approach. Postoperative care includes:
- Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks
- Maintaining hydration and a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation
- Monitoring urinary output and reporting retention or leakage
- Attending follow-up visits to assess sling function and healing
- Performing pelvic floor exercises as recommended
Most patients resume normal daily activities within 2–4 weeks.
Results & Longevity
Bilateral sling surgery in Korea has high success rates, with over 85–90% of patients achieving significant improvement in stress urinary incontinence. Results are long-lasting, and repeat procedures are rarely necessary. Patients typically experience improved confidence, lifestyle quality, and social functioning.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is preferred for bilateral sling surgery due to:
- Experienced urologists and gynecologists specializing in pelvic floor surgery
- Advanced minimally invasive and high-precision techniques
- Short hospital stays and rapid recovery protocols
- Integration of urodynamic testing for personalized treatment
- Multilingual support and care coordination for international patients
- Transparent, cost-effective treatment packages
Patients benefit from expert care, precise surgery, and structured follow-up.
Cost Range
The cost of bilateral sling surgery in Korea typically ranges from USD 6,000 to USD 11,000, depending on:
- Hospital type and surgical approach
- Sling material and technique used
- Length of hospital stay and follow-up care
Comprehensive packages are available covering surgery, hospitalization, and post-operative care for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Asan Medical Center – Urology & Female Pelvic Medicine Clinic
- Seoul National University Hospital – Urology & Pelvic Floor Program
- Samsung Medical Center – Minimally Invasive Sling Surgery Unit
- Severance Hospital (Yonsei University) – Urology & Female Pelvic Health Clinic
- Korea University Anam Hospital – Outpatient Urology & Pelvic Surgery Center
- Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital – Female Pelvic Floor & Continence Surgery Unit
