Treatment Overview
Tension-Free Vaginal Tape (TVT) sling surgery is a minimally invasive procedure for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women. The surgery involves placing a narrow mesh tape under the mid-urethra to provide support and prevent urine leakage during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising. Korea is recognized internationally for its advanced pelvic floor surgeries, with experienced urologists and gynecologists performing high-precision TVT procedures for both local and international patients.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of TVT sling surgery is to restore urinary continence and enhance quality of life. Key benefits include:
- Effectively reduces or eliminates stress urinary incontinence
- Minimally invasive procedure with small incisions and minimal scarring
- Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery
- High long-term success rates
- Can be combined with other pelvic procedures if necessary
Korean hospitals provide personalized surgical plans to ensure optimal tape placement and maximum effectiveness.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for TVT 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 general health, without active urinary tract infections
- Medically suitable for anesthesia and minimally invasive surgery
Preoperative evaluation includes pelvic examination, urinalysis, and urodynamic studies to determine the appropriate approach.
Possible Risks & Complications
TVT sling surgery is generally safe, but potential risks include:
- Temporary urinary retention
- Sling erosion or exposure
- Urinary tract infections
- Bladder or urethral injury during surgery
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Rare complications such as bleeding or allergic reactions
Korean surgeons reduce risks through advanced techniques, precise placement, and careful postoperative monitoring.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals use advanced techniques for TVT surgery, including:
- Mid-urethral retropubic TVT procedure for effective support
- Minimally invasive placement with small incisions for faster recovery
- Real-time imaging guidance to ensure accurate tape positioning
- Integration with pre- and post-operative urodynamic testing
- Postoperative monitoring for early detection of complications
These methods maximize surgical success and patient safety.
Treatment Process in Korea
The treatment process typically includes:
- Preoperative evaluation including urinalysis, pelvic exam, 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 therapy if recommended to support recovery
Multilingual coordinators assist international patients with appointments, travel, and aftercare instructions.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after TVT sling surgery is generally smooth. 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
TVT sling surgery in Korea offers high success rates, with over 85–90% of patients experiencing significant improvement in stress urinary incontinence. Results are long-lasting, and repeat procedures are rarely necessary. Patients typically enjoy improved confidence and quality of life.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is preferred for TVT sling surgery due to:
- Highly experienced urologists and gynecologists specializing in pelvic floor surgery
- Advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques with high precision
- Short hospital stays and rapid recovery protocols
- Integration of urodynamic testing for personalized treatment
- Multilingual support and care coordination for international patients
- Transparent and cost-effective treatment packages
Patients benefit from expert care, precision surgery, and structured follow-up.
Cost Range
The cost of TVT sling surgery in Korea typically ranges from USD 5,000 to USD 9,000, depending on:
- Hospital type and surgical approach
- Tape material and surgical technique
- Length of hospital stay and follow-up care
Hospitals offer comprehensive packages covering all surgical and recovery steps 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
