Treatment Overview
The Altis® Single-Incision Sling Procedure is a next-generation, minimally invasive surgical technique for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women. Developed by Coloplast, the Altis® system is designed for single-incision placement, eliminating the need for exit incisions through the groin or abdomen.
The sling provides tension-free mid-urethral support, reducing urine leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercising.
In Korea, this procedure is performed by expert uro-gynecologic surgeons using high-precision endoscopic systems and micro-delivery technology, ensuring accurate sling placement, minimal discomfort, and rapid recovery. Known for its simplicity, safety, and proven outcomes, the Altis® system has become a leading choice in Korean women’s health centers for urethral sling and bladder suspension surgeries.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose:
- To correct stress urinary incontinence by restoring urethral and bladder-neck support.
- To offer a less invasive alternative to traditional sling procedures.
- To maintain natural urinary function without extensive dissection or tension.
Benefits:
- Single-incision technique—no groin or abdominal cuts required.
- Short operation time (typically 15–20 minutes).
- Minimal bleeding, pain, and downtime.
- High success rate (80–90%) with natural urethral mobility.
- Reduced risk of postoperative complications such as bladder injury or nerve pain.
- In Korea, enhanced by 3D endoscopic visualization and custom-tension systems for individualized support.
Ideal Candidates
The Altis® Single-Incision Sling is ideal for:
- Women with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence.
- Patients seeking a non-complex, minimally invasive surgical option.
- Postpartum or menopausal women with urethral hypermobility.
- Women who want a short recovery time and minimal postoperative restrictions.
- Patients with recurrent SUI after prior pelvic surgery but without mesh complications.
Not suitable for:
- Severe intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) or advanced pelvic-organ prolapse.
- Patients with active urinary infections or urethral strictures.
Possible Risks & Complications
While the Altis® procedure is very safe, minor risks can include:
- Temporary urinary retention or mild difficulty voiding.
- Slight vaginal discomfort or swelling.
- Rare minor bleeding at the incision site.
- Mesh exposure or erosion (very uncommon with modern Altis® materials).
- Urgency or frequency (usually short-term).
Korean hospitals minimize these risks through precise, image-guided placement, biocompatible sling materials, and tension-free application for optimal urethral support.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korea’s advanced women’s health centers perform Altis® Single-Incision Sling Surgery using refined, minimally invasive techniques and world-class surgical precision.
Procedure Steps:
- A small incision (about 1–1.5 cm) is made beneath the mid-urethra.
- The Altis® sling is inserted through this incision using a specialized introducer device.
- Self-fixating anchors are deployed into the pelvic obturator internus muscles to secure the sling.
- The sling’s tension is adjusted precisely to provide gentle, natural urethral support.
- The incision is closed with absorbable sutures — no external scars remain.
Korean Advancements Include:
- Endoscopic guidance for micro-accurate sling placement.
- 3D anatomical mapping to customize sling alignment.
- Soft, monofilament mesh designed for comfort and long-term durability.
- Micro-tension adjustment systems ensuring optimal urethral mobility.
- Robotic-assisted precision tools in select advanced hospitals for enhanced control.
Techniques Commonly Used in Korea:
- Altis® Standard Single-Incision Sling: The most common form, ideal for first-time SUI correction.
- Altis® Adjustable Sling System: Enables post-placement tension fine-tuning for long-term continence.
- Hybrid Procedures: Combines sling placement with vaginal rejuvenation or pelvic-floor tightening for improved outcomes.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery:
- Outpatient or same-day discharge procedure.
- Minimal postoperative discomfort and fast healing.
- Return to light activities within 1–2 days; full recovery in 4–6 weeks.
Aftercare:
- Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and sexual activity for 6 weeks.
- Maintain hygiene to prevent infection.
- Stay hydrated and avoid constipation to reduce pelvic pressure.
- Attend follow-up appointments for sling tension and healing assessment.
- Korean clinics often provide postoperative EMS or biofeedback therapy to strengthen pelvic muscles and extend results.
Results & Longevity
Results:
- Noticeable improvement in bladder control immediately or within a few days.
- Significant reduction or complete elimination of leakage episodes.
- Natural urination without obstruction.
- Improved confidence, pelvic stability, and quality of life.
Longevity:
- Long-lasting results — typically 8–12 years or more.
- Very low recurrence rates when combined with proper pelvic care.
- Modern mesh design ensures soft integration with minimal tissue reaction.
- Korean precision techniques and postoperative pelvic rehabilitation enhance durability and comfort.
Treatment Process in Korea
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- Korea is world-renowned for innovation in uro-gynecology and minimally invasive surgery.
- Surgeons are fellowship-trained in pelvic reconstructive and sling techniques.
- Hospitals use the latest Altis® systems with advanced tension control and biocompatible mesh.
- Care focuses on both functional success and aesthetic healing.
- Integrated preoperative and postoperative programs provide holistic recovery.
- Bilingual staff and transparent cost structures make it ideal for international patients.
Typical Treatment Process:
- Consultation: Comprehensive pelvic-floor exam, ultrasound, and urodynamic study.
- Anesthesia: Local or light sedation; general anesthesia rarely required.
- Sling Placement: Altis® sling inserted through a single vaginal incision under endoscopic guidance.
- Verification: Sling tension checked and adjusted for natural urinary flow.
- Closure: Minimal suturing with absorbable stitches.
- Observation: Short recovery period before discharge.
- Follow-Up: Scheduled appointments at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology:
- High-definition 3D endoscopic visualization for unparalleled surgical precision.
- Ultralight mesh materials tailored to Asian pelvic anatomy.
- Combination therapy with HIFU or RF rejuvenation for full pelvic restoration.
- Micro-suturing techniques for scarless healing and aesthetic outcomes.
Cost Range (Details)
The cost of Altis® Single-Incision Sling Surgery in Korea varies based on the clinic, surgeon expertise, and post-care services:
- Standard Altis® Sling Procedure: ₩ 3,000,000 – 5,000,000 KRW (≈ US $2,300 – $3,800)
- Adjustable or Hybrid Altis® Procedure: ₩ 5,000,000 – 7,000,000 KRW (≈ US $3,800 – $5,300)
- Comprehensive Pelvic Rehabilitation Package: ₩ 8,000,000 – 10,000,000 KRW (≈ US $6,100 – $7,600)
- Robotic-Assisted or Premium Care Programs: ₩ 10,000,000 – 12,000,000 KRW (≈ US $7,600 – $9,100)
Korea provides a world-class balance of quality, safety, and affordability, offering advanced medical infrastructure and experienced uro-gynecologic teams.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- University-affiliated women’s hospitals performing advanced single-incision sling procedures.
- Gangnam uro-gynecology centers specializing in Altis® and mid-urethral sling systems.
- Women-exclusive hospitals integrating surgical and rejuvenation services.
- Postpartum rehabilitation centers offering pelvic recovery programs.
- International women’s health clinics providing personalized care for global patients.
