Wednesday, September 30, 2026

"I Had Breast Surgery, but My Back Became Hunched": Why Hwang Jung-eum Ultimately Had Her Implants Removed [Health Talk]

Input
2026-09-30 09:33:23
Updated
2026-09-30 09:33:23
Photo: Screenshot from Hwang Jung-eum's YouTube channel

[Financial News] Actress Hwang Jung-eum said she had her breast implants removed after feeling physically burdened following a breast augmentation procedure in the past. Breast implants can cause problems such as capsular contracture or rupture after insertion, making regular follow-up monitoring necessary even after surgery.

Hwang Jung-eum discussed her past breast surgery in the video "The Day I Shopped for Underwear at Namdaemun," which she uploaded to her own video channel on the 23rd of last month.
She said she rarely wears a bra because it is usually uncomfortable, adding, "Breast surgery was very popular in 2010. I secretly had it done without telling anyone around me, including my family."
Recalling the SBS drama *Giant*, in which she appeared at the time, she also said, "If you watch the show, you'll probably notice that my bust looks different."

Hwang Jung-eum on Having Her Implants Removed: Her Back Had Become Hunched

Hwang Jung-eum said she experienced unexpected discomfort after the surgery. She gained weight while increasing her nutritional intake during recovery, and the added weight of the implants placed further strain on her body.
She recalled, "Before I knew it, my back had become hunched." She later had the implants removed, saying, "These days, not having surgery is the trend. Having them removed doesn't hurt at all."
However, it cannot be concluded that the symptom Hwang Jung-eum described as her back becoming hunched was caused by the weight of the implants. Postural changes can be influenced by various factors, including body weight, muscle strength, pain and lifestyle. Medical institutions explain that excessively large or heavy breasts can cause neck, shoulder or lower-back pain and postural discomfort, but the cause of an individual's symptoms must be assessed separately.
Breast Implants May Cause Capsular Contracture or Rupture

Breast augmentation is a procedure that changes the size and shape of the breasts by inserting implants. The Department of Plastic Surgery at Asan Medical Center explains that capsular contracture can occur when a layer of fibrous tissue forms around an implant, causing the breast to harden. In severe cases, the breast's shape may change or discomfort may increase, making implant removal necessary.
Implant rupture is another issue that must be checked. Implants can wear down or rupture after remaining in the body for an extended period. If this happens, they may be removed or replaced with new implants.

Medical experts also explain that implants are not permanent devices. Asan Hospital's health information states that implants used for breast reconstruction may also become prone to rupture over time, making regular examinations necessary. The examination method and interval may vary depending on the type of implant, the timing of the surgery and the individual's condition.
When Is Implant Removal Necessary?

In addition, having implants does not necessarily mean they must be removed. If there is no pain or deformity and examinations reveal no problems, regular follow-up monitoring can continue.
On the other hand, patients may discuss removal or replacement with their medical team if severe capsular contracture causes the breasts to harden or change shape, if an implant ruptures, or if pain or inflammation recurs. Medical experts recommend regular follow-up examinations after breast augmentation. The choice of implants and decisions about removal or replacement also depend on an individual's body type, breast condition and surgical history.
Appearance After Implant Removal Varies by Individual

Breast size and shape may change after implants are removed. Depending on the degree of skin stretching, the size of the implants, how long they were in place, childbirth and weight changes, sagging or asymmetry may occur after removal.
Hwang Jung-eum also said that her size changed after the implants were removed, making it difficult for her to buy underwear that fit properly. She visited Namdaemun Market that day and used the filming as an opportunity to choose underwear suited to her.

Meanwhile, after breast implant surgery, patients should consult a plastic surgeon to check the condition of the implants if the breasts suddenly become hard, their shape changes, or persistent pain, swelling or asymmetry develops. Asan Medical Center advises that capsular contracture and rupture may occur after implant insertion and recommends regular follow-up examinations.

[email protected] Han Seung-gon Reporter