Many women from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia consider breast augmentation due to congenital hypoplasia, postpartum atrophy, or asymmetry. Among the many implant brands, Mentor (MemoryGel), a globally widely used silicone implant, attracts significant attention. This article, based on clinical practice at plastic surgery clinics in Gangnam, Seoul, systematically explains the characteristics of Mentor implants, surgical methods, price ranges, and key decision‑making points.
Flat chest or insufficient volume mainly stems from: genetic factors leading to naturally less glandular tissue; significant weight fluctuations or post‑breastfeeding glandular atrophy and skin laxity; chest wall shape affecting visual fullness. Manifestations include an empty upper pole, a high inframammary fold, wide intermammary distance, or noticeable volume asymmetry between the two sides. These issues often affect clothing confidence and body proportion harmony.
The core of breast augmentation lies in implant selection and placement technique. The mainstream approach in Korea uses endoscopic assistance via transaxillary or inframammary incisions, placing the implant in the subpectoral or dual‑plane position. Mentor implants are made of cohesive silicone gel and feature:
Shell and gel: Proprietary Siltex® micro‑textured shell reduces the risk of capsular contracture; the gel has high cohesiveness, so even if ruptured, it does not spread significantly.
Shape options: Available in round and anatomical (teardrop) shapes – the former is suitable for those seeking upper pole fullness, while the latter better mimics natural breast shape.
Surface texture: Smooth and textured surfaces are available; textured surfaces increase tissue adhesion, reducing rotation and displacement.
Certification and history: Approved by the US FDA and Korea’s KFDA, with decades of clinical follow‑up data.
Surgery takes about 1.5‑2.5 hours under general anaesthesia. Post‑operatively, a support bra must be worn. Recovery allows light activities in about 1 week, with complete swelling resolution and implant settling taking 3‑6 months.
The following prices are compiled from the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare published data and multiple plastic surgery clinics’ 2025 price lists in Gangnam, Seoul. They include implant costs, surgical fees, and routine postoperative management (excluding hospitalisation and special care). Mentor implant prices vary significantly based on specifications, surface type, and distributor.
Mentor Breast Augmentation (single procedure, bilateral implants included)
| Tier | Included Content (implant + incision approach) | Expected Improvement | Original Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | Smooth round Mentor (basic model), transaxillary incision, subpectoral placement | Increases by about 1‑1.5 cup sizes, natural fullness | ₩6,500,000 – ₩8,000,000 |
| Standard | Textured round or anatomical Mentor (MemoryGel), endoscopic assistance, inframammary or transaxillary incision, dual‑plane technique | Increases 1.5‑2 cup sizes, natural shape, smooth upper pole transition | ₩8,500,000 – ₩11,000,000 |
| Premium | High‑end anatomical textured (MemoryShape) + precise endoscopic positioning + auxiliary fat stem cell injection (for improved coverage) | Customised, extremely natural feel and dynamic aesthetics, suitable for asymmetry correction | ₩12,000,000 – ₩16,000,000 |
Based on baseline breast conditions (flatness, skin elasticity, chest width) and budget, combined with the consensus of Korean doctors, the following tiered recommendations are provided:
Mild hypoplasia + tight skin + limited budget: Choose Economy smooth round with 200‑300cc implants, costing ₩6.5‑8.0 million, yielding natural results.
Moderate volume deficiency + mild laxity or asymmetry: Recommended Standard textured anatomical with 300‑400cc, endoscopic‑assisted precision, priced ₩8.5‑11.0 million, balancing feel and shape.
Severe flatness + narrow chest wall or pursuit of extreme naturalness (premium demand): Choose Premium MemoryShape anatomical combined with fat grafting to improve coverage, costing ₩12‑16 million, suitable for those seeking dynamic realism.
Revision or implant exchange: Additional evaluation of the capsule is needed, and prices typically increase by 20‑30%. Direct consultation with a specialised hospital is advised.
Q1: Does Mentor implant have KFDA certification in Korea? How long does it last?
The entire Mentor range has been approved by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). Clinical data show a rupture rate of less than 1% per year. Theoretically, they can last 10‑20 years, but long‑term follow‑up is recommended; if discomfort or shape changes occur, replacement can be considered.
Q2: Which is safer – smooth or textured?
Textured implants have greater friction with tissue, reducing rotation and displacement, and have a slightly lower capsular contracture rate; smooth implants feel softer but may require more massage. Korean doctors generally recommend textured anatomical for primary augmentation.
Q3: Will breast augmentation affect breastfeeding or breast examinations?
Since implants are placed behind the pectoral muscle or in a dual‑plane, they do not directly contact the mammary ducts, so breastfeeding is usually unaffected. However, they may obscure X‑ray or ultrasound images; inform the radiologist beforehand, and MRI or specialised ultrasound techniques can be used.
Q4: How far in advance should foreigners book Mentor implants in Korea?
It is recommended to make online enquiries at least 1‑2 months in advance to confirm implant stock, doctor availability, and preoperative tests. After surgery, plan to stay in Korea for at least 7‑10 days for suture removal and the first follow‑up.
Q5: What is the incidence and management of capsular contracture?
The incidence of capsular contracture (Baker grade III/IV) with Mentor textured implants in Korean statistics is about 2‑5%. Mild cases can be treated conservatively with massage or medication; severe cases require capsulectomy and implant exchange.