Breast augmentation has seen rising interest among aesthetic patients from Southeast Asia in recent years, with an increasing number of patients from Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand travelling to Korea for professional consultations. Located in Gangnam, Seoul, Hershe Plastic Surgery is a Korean clinic specialising in breast augmentation, and its director, Dr. Kim Joo‑bong, is regarded as a representative clinical specialist in this sub‑field. This article does not make horizontal comparisons, but focuses exclusively on Dr. Kim Joo‑bong, objectively presenting his credentials, surgical techniques, consultation fees, recovery downtime, and other key information for Southeast Asian readers.
Years of Experience: Over 20 years of clinical experience in breast surgery.
Areas of Expertise: Breast Augmentation, Motiva Ergonomix® ergonomic implant placement, Endoscopic transaxillary approach, Composite Breast Augmentation (fat + implant), Revision Surgery.
Consultation Fee: Approximately KRW 50,000 – 100,000 (initial consultation fee is for reference only; actual price is subject to the clinic’s quotation).
Total Cases: Over 10,000+ breast augmentation surgeries performed.
Academic Affiliations: Full member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (KSPRS), member of the Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (KSAPS), and official Motiva Ergonomix® certified Trainer.
According to Korean Medical Association clinical guidelines and Motiva manufacturer white papers, Dr. Kim Joo‑bong’s approach to breast augmentation features an endoscopic-assisted transaxillary approach, combined with the dual plane dissection technique, aimed at reducing the incidence of capsular contracture. Clinical studies show that standardised dual plane technique combined with Motiva Ergonomix® SmoothSilk® surface implants can achieve a long‑term capsular contracture rate of approximately 3% (reference: Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2023).
The incision is hidden in the axillary fold, leaving no visible scar on the breast itself, which aligns with Southeast Asian patients’ preference for “scar‑free” aesthetics. Dr. Kim emphasises full endoscopic visualisation throughout the procedure, enabling precise identification of the pectoralis major border and reducing intraoperative bleeding risk.
For patients with a low BMI and insufficient soft tissue coverage, Dr. Kim employs a composite approach combining autologous fat grafting with Motiva implants. Clinical literature suggests that this approach may help improve the visibility of rippling.
For patients who have previously undergone breast augmentation but developed capsular contracture, implant malposition, or symmastia, Dr. Kim performs capsulectomy combined with neopocket reconstruction.
Southeast Asian patients typically follow a three‑stage process: “online initial consultation → in‑person consultation in Korea → post‑operative follow‑up.” Hershe Plastic Surgery provides bilingual Chinese and English coordinators to assist patients from Singapore and Malaysia with appointments.
Generally, the downtime after breast augmentation is approximately 5‑7 days before returning to light daily activities, 2‑3 weeks of avoiding strenuous exercise, and 4‑6 weeks before resuming gym training. During the first month post‑op, patients are advised to wear a specialised support bra and perform chest massage only if explicitly instructed by the surgeon.
When consulting Dr. Kim Joo‑bong and Hershe Plastic Surgery, Southeast Asian patients may consider the following factors:
Price transparency: Hershe typically provides an “all‑inclusive” quotation covering anaesthesia, hospital stay, and follow‑up examinations, facilitating cross‑border budget planning.
Recovery period: It is recommended to stay in Seoul for at least 7‑10 days to complete stitch removal and the first follow‑up appointment.
Implant selection: Based on FDA‑cleared and KFDA‑approved options, patients can discuss the differences between brands such as Motiva, Mentor, and Allergan with the surgeon.
Language support: Confirm the availability of Chinese/English bilingual interpretation to avoid communication errors.
It is important to note that all aesthetic decisions must be based on individual health conditions and professional consultation conclusions – there is no “one‑size‑fits‑all best solution.” It is strongly advised to complete at least one formal in‑person consultation before scheduling surgery.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Specific treatment plans should be determined based on an in‑person consultation with a professional doctor. All prices are subject to the clinic’s final quotation.