Treatment Overview
Synthetic sling surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women. This procedure involves placing a supportive sling made from synthetic mesh under the urethra to restore urinary continence. The synthetic material provides durable support, is biocompatible, and reduces the risk of tissue stretching or weakening over time. Korea is internationally recognized for advanced pelvic floor surgeries, offering highly skilled surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive care for both local and international patients.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of synthetic sling surgery is to restore urinary continence and enhance the patient’s quality of life. Key benefits include:
- Effectively reduces or eliminates stress urinary incontinence
- Durable and long-lasting sling support
- Minimally invasive procedure with small incisions and faster recovery
- High success rates with low recurrence of incontinence
- Can be performed as an outpatient or short-stay procedure
- Enhances confidence, comfort, and social functioning
Korean hospitals offer personalized surgical plans to ensure optimal sling placement for each patient.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for synthetic sling surgery include:
- Women suffering from stress urinary incontinence due to weakened pelvic floor muscles or post-childbirth changes
- Patients who have not responded to 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 evaluations include pelvic examination, urinalysis, and urodynamic studies to select the most appropriate sling type and surgical approach.
Possible Risks & Complications
While synthetic sling surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Sling erosion or exposure
- Urinary tract infections
- Temporary urinary retention
- Pelvic discomfort or pain
- Rare bladder, urethral, or bowel injury
- Minor bleeding or allergic reactions
Korean surgeons minimize risks using advanced surgical techniques and careful postoperative monitoring.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals employ advanced methods for synthetic sling surgery, including:
- Mid-urethral sling placement (retropubic, transobturator, or mini-sling)
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic or single-incision approaches
- Real-time imaging guidance for accurate sling positioning
- Integration with pre- and post-operative urodynamic assessments
- Postoperative monitoring to ensure optimal outcomes and early detection of complications
These technologies ensure precise placement, patient safety, and long-term effectiveness.
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 visits to monitor healing, continence, and sling function
- Pelvic floor exercises or therapy may be recommended to enhance recovery and outcomes
Multilingual coordinators assist international patients with scheduling, travel, and post-operative care.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery is generally smooth due to the minimally invasive procedure. 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 any 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
Synthetic sling surgery in Korea has high success rates, with over 90% of patients experiencing significant improvement in stress urinary incontinence. Results are durable, and repeat procedures are rarely needed. Patients report improved confidence, lifestyle quality, and social functioning.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is preferred for synthetic sling surgery due to:
- Highly experienced urologists and gynecologists specializing in pelvic floor surgery
- Advanced minimally invasive and high-precision techniques
- State-of-the-art hospitals with short hospital stays and structured recovery programs
- Integration of urodynamic testing for personalized treatment
- Multilingual support for international patients
- Transparent, cost-effective treatment packages
Patients benefit from expert care, precise surgery, and structured follow-up.
Cost Range
The cost of synthetic sling surgery in Korea typically ranges from USD 5,000 to USD 10,000, 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 postoperative 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
