Recovery after Bankart repair in South Korea typically lasts 4 to 6 months for daily tasks and non-contact sports. Most patients regain full strength for high-impact athletics within 9 to 12 months. Specialists at leading Seoul clinics achieve an 86.7% success rate for returning to pre-injury activity levels.
- Sling immobilisation: Worn for 6 weeks to allow soft tissue and labrum healing.
- Physical therapy: Passive movement exercises usually start between week 2 and week 6.
- Work return: Desk-based workers often return in 2 weeks. Manual labourers need 16 weeks.
- Functional recovery: Typical patients regain about 80% of shoulder function by the 3-month mark.
- Full stability: Tissue healing and strength restoration continue for up to 12 months after surgery.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Surgeons at Leadheal Hospital and Na-Eun Hospital often use arthroscopic techniques to minimise scarring. Dr Woo Kyung Kwak brings unique experience from the South Korean military and FIFA. He focuses on accelerated rehabilitation protocols that suit active Australian patients. Despite the technology, biological healing stays constant, so patients must follow the 6-week sling rule strictly.
Patient Consensus: Recovery feels lengthy and requires commitment to physical therapy once back in Australia. Patients report feeling fully stable after 12 months, though light exercise is possible much earlier.