Treatment Overview
The Hammock Sling Suspension Technique is a modern, minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats stress urinary incontinence (SUI) by supporting the urethra with a sling placed like a “hammock” beneath it.
This supportive sling restores the natural anatomical position of the urethra and bladder neck, preventing involuntary urine leakage during coughing, sneezing, or physical exertion.
In Korea, this procedure is performed using advanced synthetic mesh slings or autologous fascia, guided by endoscopic and robotic precision, ensuring optimal placement, safety, and long-term success. Korean uro-gynecology specialists have refined this technique into a highly effective, functionally restorative, and aesthetically conscious form of bladder suspension surgery.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose:
- To lift and stabilize the urethra and bladder neck using a supportive sling that acts as a hammock.
- To treat stress urinary incontinence caused by weakened pelvic-floor muscles or urethral hypermobility.
- To provide long-term continence restoration with minimal invasiveness.
- To improve pelvic-floor function, bladder support, and quality of life.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive and quick (30–45 minutes).
- Very high success rates (85–95%) for restoring urinary control.
- Can be performed with synthetic mesh or the patient’s own tissue.
- Small incisions with little to no scarring.
- Minimal pain and downtime; many patients return home the same day.
- Long-lasting results with low recurrence rates.
- In Korea, enhanced with precision-guided robotic systems and high-definition imaging for perfect sling alignment.
Ideal Candidates
The Hammock Sling Suspension Technique is suitable for:
- Women with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence.
- Patients with bladder-neck hypermobility but intact sphincter function.
- Postpartum or postmenopausal women experiencing urine leakage during exertion.
- Women who have not improved with conservative treatments like Kegel exercises or laser tightening.
- Patients seeking a minimally invasive, durable, and natural-feeling solution.
- Individuals with good overall health and no active urinary infections.
Not suitable for:
- Women with severe intrinsic sphincter deficiency or advanced pelvic-organ prolapse.
- Patients allergic to synthetic materials (in such cases, autologous fascia is preferred).
Possible Risks & Complications
While the Hammock Sling Suspension Technique is safe and widely practiced, potential risks may include:
- Temporary difficulty urinating (urinary retention).
- Mild pelvic or groin discomfort for a few days.
- Minor bleeding or infection at incision sites.
- Rare mesh exposure or erosion (significantly reduced with modern Korean mesh systems).
- Temporary urgency or frequency changes in urination.
- Extremely rare bladder or urethral injury (corrected intraoperatively).
Korean uro-gynecology surgeons use biocompatible sling materials, endoscopic visualization, and tension-free adjustments to minimize these risks.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korea’s approach to the Hammock Sling Suspension Technique integrates surgical precision with advanced uro-gynecologic innovation.
Common Techniques Include:
- Mid-Urethral Hammock Sling (TVT / TOT Type):
- A narrow sling is placed beneath the urethra via a small vaginal incision.
- The sling acts as a hammock, supporting the urethra during stress or strain.
- Can be placed using a retropubic (TVT) or transobturator (TOT) approach depending on anatomy.
- Autologous Hammock Sling (Fascia Sling):
- A strip of the patient’s own fascia (from the abdomen or thigh) is used instead of synthetic mesh.
- Preferred for patients desiring a mesh-free, biological repair option.
- Endoscopic or Robotic-Assisted Sling Placement:
- Performed using endoscopic cameras or robotic systems for accurate sling positioning and even tension distribution.
- Korean surgeons use 3D imaging and robotic articulation for sub-millimeter precision.
- Hybrid Hammock Reconstruction:
- Combines sling placement with anterior vaginal wall repair or laser vaginal tightening for comprehensive pelvic-floor rejuvenation.
Korean Innovations Include:
- High-definition endoscopic visualization for precise sling placement.
- Ultra-soft and lightweight mesh for improved tissue integration.
- Robotic assistance for enhanced control and reduced tissue trauma.
- 3D pelvic mapping to determine optimal sling tension and location.
- Combination therapy (sling + EMS or RF) for holistic pelvic support recovery.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery:
- Outpatient procedure; most patients discharged within hours.
- Mild swelling or tenderness for a few days.
- Light daily activities can resume within 2–3 days; full recovery in 4–6 weeks.
- Minimal downtime compared to open bladder suspension surgeries.
Aftercare:
- Avoid sexual intercourse, heavy lifting, or intense exercise for 4–6 weeks.
- Keep incision sites clean and dry.
- Attend scheduled follow-ups for sling assessment and urinary function checks.
- Perform pelvic-floor strengthening exercises post-recovery for long-term muscle health.
- Avoid chronic coughing or constipation that could strain the pelvic floor.
- Korean clinics often include pelvic physiotherapy and EMS maintenance sessions post-surgery for durability.
Results & Longevity
Results:
- Most patients experience immediate or near-immediate improvement in bladder control.
- Marked reduction or complete cessation of urinary leakage.
- Natural bladder and urethral support restored without affecting normal voiding.
- Improved comfort, confidence, and quality of life.
Longevity:
- Results are long-lasting, typically 10–15 years or more.
- Korean mesh materials and surgical accuracy contribute to higher durability.
- Recurrence rates remain low when combined with proper postoperative care.
- Regular follow-up and pelvic maintenance exercises can sustain results indefinitely.
Treatment Process in Korea
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- Korea is an international leader in pelvic-floor and uro-gynecologic surgery with expertise in advanced sling systems.
- Surgeons trained in both functional urology and aesthetic gynecology ensure optimal results.
- Use of high-resolution endoscopic, laparoscopic, and robotic technologies ensures minimal invasiveness.
- Personalized surgical plans tailored to individual anatomy and lifestyle.
- Comprehensive care includes diagnostics, surgery, and rehabilitation in one coordinated program.
- Korean clinics emphasize safety, aesthetics, and precision, offering superior patient outcomes.
Typical Surgical Process:
- Consultation: Detailed pelvic-floor evaluation, urodynamic testing, and imaging.
- Preparation: Local, spinal, or general anesthesia administered based on patient preference.
- Incision & Placement: A small incision made under the urethra; the sling is inserted and positioned like a hammock.
- Verification: Cystoscopy ensures accurate placement and no bladder injury.
- Closure: Minimal suturing; incisions closed with dissolvable stitches.
- Recovery: Observation for a few hours before discharge.
- Follow-Up: Regular post-surgical assessments and pelvic physiotherapy.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology:
- Robotic-assisted hammock suspension for unmatched precision.
- 3D pelvic imaging to optimize sling position.
- Micro-tensioning systems ensuring perfect urethral support without obstruction.
- Integration with pelvic rehabilitation programs for sustained muscle balance.
- Aesthetic suture design for invisible healing.
Cost Range (Details)
The cost of Hammock Sling Suspension Technique in Korea depends on the surgical method, material, and clinic reputation:
- Standard Synthetic Sling Procedure: ₩ 4,000,000 – 6,000,000 KRW (≈ US $3,000 – $4,600)
- Autologous Fascia Hammock Sling: ₩ 6,000,000 – 9,000,000 KRW (≈ US $4,600 – $6,900)
- Robotic-Assisted Hammock Sling: ₩ 9,000,000 – 13,000,000 KRW (≈ US $6,900 – $10,000)
- Comprehensive Package (Diagnostics + Surgery + Rehab): ₩ 10,000,000 – 15,000,000 KRW (≈ US $7,600 – $11,400)
Korea’s costs are highly competitive internationally, providing cutting-edge technology, expert surgeons, and holistic recovery care at excellent value.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Top university-affiliated hospitals with uro-gynecology departments performing advanced sling surgeries.
- Gangnam women’s health centers specializing in minimally invasive hammock sling and pelvic reconstruction.
- Women-exclusive uro-gynecology hospitals offering robotic-assisted sling procedures.
- Postpartum pelvic-floor rehabilitation centers combining surgery and therapy.
- International medical centers with English-speaking staff and customized post-surgery wellness programs.
