Sunday, November 15, 2026

"I Had Breast Surgery, but My Back Became Hunched": Hwang Jung-eum Explains Why She Ultimately Removed Her Implants [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 physical strain following breast augmentation surgery in the past. Breast implants can cause complications such as capsular contracture or rupture after insertion, making regular follow-up examinations necessary even after surgery.
Hwang Jung-eum discussed her past breast surgery in a video titled 'The Day I Went Underwear Shopping at Namdaemun,' which she uploaded to her video channel on the 23rd of last month.
She said she almost never wears a bra because she usually finds it uncomfortable. "In 2010, breast surgery was very popular. I secretly had it done without telling anyone around me, including my family," she said.
Recalling the SBS drama 'Giant,' in which she appeared at the time, she added, "If you watch the show, you'll probably notice that my curves look different."
Hwang Jung-eum, Who Removed Her Implants: "Before I Knew It, My Back Had Become Hunched"

Hwang Jung-eum said she also experienced unexpected discomfort after the surgery. She explained that she gained weight after increasing her nutritional intake during recovery, and the additional weight of the implants placed further strain on her body.
"Before I knew it, my back had become hunched," she recalled. She said she later had the implants removed, adding, "These days, not having surgery is the trend. It doesn't hurt at all to have them removed."
However, it cannot be concluded that the symptom Hwang Jung-eum described as having a "hunched back" was caused by the weight of her implants. Changes in posture can be affected by various factors, including body weight, muscle strength, pain and lifestyle habits. Medical institutions say 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 evaluated separately.
Breast Implants Can Cause Capsular Contracture and 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 says that capsular contracture can occur when a layer of fibrous tissue forms around an implant, causing the breast to harden. In severe cases, the shape of the breast may change or discomfort may worsen, making implant removal necessary.
Implant rupture is another issue that must be monitored. 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 professionals also explain that implants are not permanent devices. Health information from Asan Medical Center (AMC) states that implants used for breast reconstruction may also become susceptible 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?

Having breast 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 may continue.
However, if severe capsular contracture causes the breast to harden or change shape, if an implant ruptures, or if pain or inflammation recurs, patients can consult their doctor about whether to have the implant removed or replaced. Medical professionals recommend regular follow-up examinations after breast augmentation. The choice of implant and decisions about removal or replacement also depend on the 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 implant size, the length of time the implants were in place, childbirth and changes in body weight, sagging or asymmetry may occur after removal.
Hwang Jung-eum also said that her size changed after the implants were removed, leaving her unable to properly purchase underwear that fit her. She visited Namdaemun Market that day and used the shoot as an opportunity to choose underwear suited to her.
Meanwhile, after breast implant surgery, patients should have the condition of their implants checked through a plastic surgery consultation if their breasts suddenly become hard or change shape, or if they experience persistent pain, swelling or asymmetry. Asan Medical Center advises patients about the possibility of capsular contracture and rupture after implants are inserted and recommends regular follow-up examinations.
[email protected] Han Seung-gon Reporter