Plastic Surgery in Korea: A Complete Guide for International Patients

South Korea is the global capital of cosmetic and plastic surgery, drawing thousands of patients each year for procedures that combine cutting-edge science with artistic precision. Whether you’re interested in rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, facial contouring, or body procedures, this guide will help you navigate the process from consultation to recovery.

Why Plastic Surgery in Korea?

South Korea performs more cosmetic surgeries per capita than any other country in the world. Its reputation stems from:

  • World-renowned surgeons trained both domestically and abroad
  • High patient volume, especially from China, Southeast Asia, and the U.S.
  • Medical tourism infrastructure with multilingual coordinators, translators, and luxury aftercare clinics
  • Affordable pricing compared to Western markets without compromising safety or quality
  • Technological leadership in imaging, scar reduction, and minimally invasive tools

Patients choose Korea not just for beauty, but for balanced, natural results tailored to their ethnicity, anatomy, and goals – hallmarks of plastic surgery in Korea.

Top Plastic Surgery Procedures in Korea

1. Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)

Korean rhinoplasty prioritizes subtle enhancement of the nasal bridge and tip. Techniques include:

  • Silicone or Gore-Tex implants for dorsal height
  • Septal or ear cartilage grafts for natural tip support
  • Osteotomy to narrow a wide nasal base

Rhinoplasty often includes functional improvements for breathing alongside aesthetic goals.

2. Double Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Double eyelid surgery is designed to enhance eye shape for individuals with monolids, droopy lids, or asymmetrical eyes:

  • Incisional for permanent crease formation
  • Non-incisional for subtle definition without scarring
  • Often paired with epicanthoplasty or under-eye fat repositioning

3. V-Line and Jaw Reduction Surgery

Sculpting the lower face for a slimmer, V-shaped appearance:

  • Mandibular angle and chin shaving
  • Zygoma (cheekbone) reduction
  • General anesthesia and 2-week recovery

This is often combined with botox or thread lifts for enhanced contouring.

4. Breast Augmentation in Korea

Breast augmentation is popular among both local and international patients seeking enhanced shape and volume:

  • Motiva or Mentor implants
  • Trans-axillary (armpit) or inframammary (under-breast) incisions
  • Fat grafting for natural volume boost

5. Revision and Secondary Surgeries

Revision procedures after unsatisfactory surgery elsewhere:

  • Revision rhinoplasty and eyelid repair
  • Requires 3D simulation and longer recovery
  • Only done at high-expertise clinics

6. Liposuction and Body Contouring

Surgical body reshaping solutions:

  • Tumescent, Vaser, or laser-assisted liposuction
  • Common zones: arms, thighs, abdomen, flanks
  • Can be paired with skin tightening or BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift)

plastic surgery in Korea

Safety and Accreditation

Clinics for plastic surgery in Korea are licensed by the Ministry of Health & Welfare. Key safety markers include:

  • KSPRS (Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons) membership
  • ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) credentials
  • On-site anesthesiologist, emergency equipment, and recovery suite
  • Regular sterilization audits and English-speaking nurses

Planning Your Surgery Trip to Seoul

Whether you’re staying a week or a month, plan your trip with Seoul Cosmetic Surgery, where we handle logistics to ensure a smooth experience with plastic surgery in Korea.

Pre-Arrival

  • Zoom or WhatsApp consults with board-certified surgeons
  • Pricing quotes, surgical recommendations, and documentation help

On Arrival

  • Incheon airport pickup by bilingual team
  • Private hotel or clinic accommodation
  • Hospital introduction and pre-op testing

After Surgery

  • Daily nurse visits (if required)
  • Recovery treatments: LED therapy, oxygen facials, massage
  • Medication, wound care, and skincare kits provided

Seoul is known for privacy and patient discretion, making it ideal for recovery.

plastic surgery in Korea

Average Stay by Procedure

Procedure

Recommended Stay

Eyelid Surgery5–7 days
Rhinoplasty7–10 days
Facial Contouring10–14 days
Liposuction5–8 days
Breast Surgery7–10 days
Multiple Procedures14–21 days

Costs Overview

Korea is generally 30–50% more affordable than the U.S. or Europe:

Procedure

Cost Range (USD)

Eyelid Surgery$1,500–$3,000
Rhinoplasty$3,000–$6,500
V-Line Surgery$7,000–$11,000
Breast Augmentation$7,000–$10,000
Liposuction (per area)$2,000–$4,000

FAQs

Q: Is English spoken at Korean clinics?

Yes, especially through Seoul Cosmetic Surgery’s bilingual care coordinators.

Q: What’s the best time to visit Korea for surgery?

Spring and fall offer mild weather, perfect for discreet recovery.

Q: Can I combine surgeries?

Yes. SCS helps plan recovery-friendly combos with expert surgeons.

Q: Is plastic surgery safe in Korea?

Yes. When performed in licensed clinics, Korea offers some of the safest surgical standards globally.

Start Your Journey with Seoul Cosmetic Surgery

From aesthetic enhancement to total transformation, Korea’s plastic surgery industry is unmatched in skill, safety, and innovation. Let Seoul Cosmetic Surgery help you navigate every step—from surgeon selection to stunning results.

👉 Book Your Korea Plastic Surgery Consultation Today

📞 Contact Us | 📧 info@seoulcosmeticsurgery.com