Treatment Overview
Outpatient AUS (Artificial Urinary Sphincter) implantation is an advanced surgical procedure designed to treat severe stress urinary incontinence with minimal hospital stay. Unlike traditional inpatient surgery, this method allows patients to undergo AUS implantation and return home the same day or within 24 hours, making it convenient for both domestic and international patients.
Korea is at the forefront of outpatient AUS procedures due to its high-volume urology centers, minimally invasive techniques, and stringent safety protocols. Surgeons utilize advanced imaging and precision instruments to place the sphincter accurately while reducing surgical trauma. Outpatient care is optimized with efficient preoperative planning, rapid recovery monitoring, and comprehensive patient education.
Purpose & Benefits
The main goal of outpatient AUS implantation is to restore urinary control while minimizing hospitalization and recovery time. Patients who experience significant stress urinary incontinence after prostate surgery, trauma, or nerve dysfunction can benefit greatly from this approach.
Benefits include:
• Same-day or next-day discharge, reducing hospital-related stress
• Faster return to normal activities compared to traditional surgery
• Minimally invasive approach with small incisions
• Reduced risk of hospital-acquired infections
• Efficient use of high-precision devices for long-term continence
• Personalized care with detailed preoperative and postoperative instructions
• High patient satisfaction due to comfort and convenience
Korea’s outpatient AUS programs combine surgical efficiency with high-quality patient care, making them ideal for medical tourists.
Ideal Candidates
Outpatient AUS implantation is suitable for patients who require continence restoration but prefer minimal hospital stay. Ideal candidates include:
• Adults with moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence
• Patients post-prostatectomy or pelvic surgery
• Individuals with good general health and no severe comorbidities
• Patients who can manage postoperative care at home
• Those with reliable access to follow-up care or virtual monitoring
• Patients seeking a minimally invasive, efficient, and safe treatment option
Korean specialists conduct comprehensive preoperative assessments to ensure the patient is fit for outpatient surgery.
Possible Risks & Complications
While outpatient AUS implantation is safe and minimally invasive, patients should be aware of potential risks:
• Infection at the surgical site
• Device malfunction or mechanical failure
• Urethral erosion or atrophy from long-term cuff pressure
• Persistent urinary leakage if the device is not properly calibrated
• Mild pain, swelling, or bruising at incision sites
• Rare anesthesia-related complications
Korean hospitals mitigate risks with advanced sterile techniques, careful patient selection, and close postoperative monitoring.
Techniques & Technology Used
Outpatient AUS implantation in Korea relies on modern, precision-focused technologies and minimally invasive techniques:
• Micro-incisions to reduce tissue trauma and scarring
• Robotic-assisted or laparoscopic instruments for precise placement
• High-resolution imaging for urethral and pelvic mapping
• Pressure-regulated, biocompatible AUS devices for optimal continence
• Real-time monitoring during surgery to ensure correct cuff and pump placement
• Efficient outpatient recovery protocols to support same-day discharge
These innovations allow patients to enjoy the benefits of AUS implantation without prolonged hospitalization.
Treatment Process in Korea
The outpatient AUS implantation process in Korea is carefully organized to ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency:
- Pre-Arrival Consultation
Patients submit medical history and test results to specialists for initial assessment. - In-Person Diagnostics
Upon arrival, patients undergo urodynamic studies, cystoscopy, urine tests, and pelvic imaging to confirm eligibility. - Surgical Planning
Surgeons develop a personalized plan including incision location, device selection, and postoperative care. - Outpatient Surgery
The procedure generally lasts 1–2 hours under general or regional anesthesia. Small incisions allow for rapid recovery. - Immediate Recovery
Patients are monitored for several hours postoperatively to manage pain, observe urinary function, and ensure hemodynamic stability. - Discharge & Home Care
Patients typically return home the same day or the following morning. Clear instructions are provided for activity restrictions, hygiene, and device operation. - Follow-Up
Follow-up visits are scheduled to activate the device, check healing, and ensure proper function. Telemedicine support is available for international patients.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery from outpatient AUS implantation is quick and convenient:
• Mild discomfort or swelling is common and resolves within a few days
• Light activities may resume within 1–2 weeks
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks
• Device activation occurs after full tissue healing
• Adherence to medication and hygiene guidelines reduces infection risk
• Follow-up appointments (in-person or virtual) ensure optimal outcomes
Korean medical centers provide structured after-care support for medical tourists, including virtual consultations and multilingual guidance.
Results & Longevity
Outpatient AUS implantation delivers excellent functional outcomes with high patient satisfaction. Typical results include:
• Significant reduction or elimination of urinary leakage
• Improved confidence, lifestyle, and daily mobility
• Durable device function lasting 7–10+ years
• Minimal scarring and faster recovery compared to inpatient procedures
Korea’s precision-based outpatient approach ensures both efficacy and patient comfort.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea has become a leading destination for outpatient AUS implantation due to:
• Experienced urologists with expertise in minimally invasive AUS procedures
• World-class hospitals equipped with robotic and laparoscopic technologies
• Efficient medical tourism services including fast scheduling, interpretation, and transportation
• High safety standards and low infection rates
• Excellent postoperative care and follow-up support
• Competitive costs compared to Western countries
• Seamless integration of functional and cosmetic outcomes
These factors make Korea ideal for international patients seeking high-quality outpatient incontinence surgery.
Cost Range
The cost of outpatient AUS implantation in Korea typically ranges from USD 12,000 – 20,000, depending on:
• Type and manufacturer of the AUS device
• Hospital category (general, premium, or international center)
• Use of robotic or minimally invasive techniques
• Diagnostic tests required prior to surgery
• Duration of post-op care and follow-up services
Many Korean hospitals offer comprehensive outpatient packages for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top Korean hospitals and clinics offering outpatient AUS implantation include:
• Samsung Medical Center
• Asan Medical Center
• Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)
• Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Health System)
• W Hospital Urology Center
• BnU Urology Clinic
• Chung-Ang University Hospital
• Korea University Anam Hospital
These institutions are internationally accredited and equipped with advanced technologies for safe, efficient outpatient care.
