Seung-eun Hong
Ewha Womans University · Medicine
About the Lab
Professor Seung-eun Hong's research lab specializes in plastic and reconstructive surgery, with a focus on improving surgical outcomes through innovative techniques and materials. Key research directions include advancing implant-based breast reconstruction—particularly prepectoral and direct-to-implant methods—evaluating the impact of global health events like the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical trends, and investigating biological agents such as human placental extract to enhance tissue viability and wound healing. The lab also addresses critical medico-legal issues, analyzing malpractice claims related to surgical site infections and cosmetic filler complications, with an emphasis on patient safety, informed consent, and aesthetic outcomes.
Research Overview
Research Output Trend
Figures are computed from collected data and may differ slightly.
Selected Papers
15Background and objectives: Until now subpectoral breast reconstruction (SBR) has been the predominant form; however, it can present with pectoralis muscle contraction and animation deformity. To avoid these complications, surgeons have begun placing breast implants in the same anatomic space as the breast tissue that was removed. We report a comparative analysis of prepectoral breast reconstruction (PBR) versus subpectoral breast reconstruction to analyze their differences. Materials and Methods
Background: This study aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breast reconstruction trends in the United States, focusing on implant-based and autologous techniques, as well as the timing of reconstruction (immediate vs. delayed). Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from 2015 to 2022 from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ National Plastic Surgery Statistics was conducted. Annual trends in breast reconstruction procedures were analyzed, comparing the pre-pandemi
Postoperative infections are rare after plastic surgery; however, when present, they can affect the aesthetic outcome. Currently, many malpractice lawsuits are associated with surgical site infection. The present study aimed to analyze malpractice claims associated with surgical site infection in the field of plastic surgery through a review of Korean precedents. We analyzed the type of procedure, associated complications, and legal judgment in these cases. Most claimants were women, and claims
<i>Background</i>: Human placental extract (HPE), prepared from the placentas of healthy, postpartum females, displays various physiological activities, including antioxidative properties. In this study, a dorsal skin flap model was used to investigate the effect of HPE on flap viability in rats. <i>Materials and methods</i>: Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent random-pattern skin flap surgeries. The animals were randomly divided among a control group and three treatment groups (localized i
Nd:YAG HILT stimulated fibroblast proliferation and increased extracellular matrix production. We expect that this therapy could accelerate the wound-healing process.
Cosmetic filler injections have gained popularity in recent years, but the rise in complications has led to an increase in legal disputes. This study analyzes civil court rulings related to cosmetic filler injection lawsuits in South Korea from 2007 to 2023. A retrospective case analysis was performed using a systematic database search, and a mixed-methods approach was employed for data analysis. The study examined 27 cases, revealing a high rate of liability findings against medical practitione
In dual plane subpectoral implant placement breast reconstruction with an inferior ADM-sling, the thickness of ADM was not a factor in determining postoperative complications and patient satisfaction. Therefore, it is possible to select the thickness according to the surgeon's preference.
PURPOSE: Recently a controversy has arisen about so-called "ghost surgery" practices, and people have voiced their opinions for legal sanction against such practices, which clearly undermine the foundation of medical ethics. However, there has been a lack of legal basis for punishing those actions. The present study aims to examine which pre-existing legal provisions could be applied to regulate ghost surgery. METHODS: The Korean Medical Service Act has a provision relating to informed consent t
A sialo-cutaneous fistula is a communication between the skin and a salivary gland or duct discharging saliva. Trauma and iatrogenic complications are the most common causes of this condition. Treatments include aspiration, compression, and the administration of systemic anticholinergics; however, their effects are transient and unsatisfactory in most cases. We had a case of a patient who developed an iatrogenic sialo-cutaneous fistula after wide excision of squamous cell carcinoma in the paroti
South Korea's 2009 legal education reform, which replaced the bar exam and two-year judicial training system with graduate-level law schools, aimed to enhance the quality and accessibility of legal services. This study examines its impact on malpractice litigation in plastic and reconstructive surgeries and procedures (PRSP). Using publicly available civil court decisions, we conducted a retrospective analysis comparing litigation patterns before (2006-2012, n = 23) and after (2017-2021, n = 75)
Background: This study aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breast reconstruction trends in the United States, focusing on implant-based and autologous techniques, as well as the timing of reconstruction (immediate vs. delayed). Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons&#039; National Plastic Surgery Statistics from 2015 to 2022 was conducted. Annual trends in breast reconstruction procedures were analyzed, comparing the pr
Purpose: The coverage of distal soft tissue defects and bony exposure of the lower extremity has long been recognized to be difficult clinical problem. Covering with a local skin flap is usually impractical because of the extensive and deep crush, hence free flap has been used commonly for the coverage of the wound. Although it can provide good results, it has many disadvantages. Designing an adipofascial flap raised on perforating vessels of the posterior tibia artery is a reliable and simple m
Research Areas
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