Cosmetic Surgery in Seoul, Korea: Complete Guide to Costs, Clinics & Surgeons
Looking for safe, affordable cosmetic surgery in Seoul? Discover costs, clinics, and top surgeons!
What is the Cost of Cosmetic Surgery in Seoul Korea
The cost of cosmetic surgery in Seoul, Korea, starts at $2,400. The starting price of cosmetic surgery in the US is $6,500.[1]
This indicates that you can save 40-60% in costs by opting for Seoul.
The above cost includes:
- Surgeon fee
- Procedure fee as per the treatment plan
- Hospital meals
With an additional cost, you can also get:
- Pick up and drop for $74 to the Gangnam Gu area, where our top clinics are located.
- Accommodation in Patio7 or Riverside Hotels near the clinics at discounted prices.
Feel free to connect with our advisors at MTC to know the exact cost details.
Customer Recovery from Rhinoplasty in Seoul Korea
Cost of Different Types of Plastic Surgeries
Many Americans avoid cosmetic surgery due to high costs in the U.S. and limited competition.
Check out the affordable costs of popular cosmetic procedures in Seoul:
| Sr. no | Procedure | Cost in Seoul (in USD) |
| 1 | Botox and Fillers | $300- 600 |
| 2 | Buccal Fat Removal (Jaw) | $ 2,255 |
| 3 | Eyebag Removal | $ 2,255 |
| 4 | Blepharoplasty (Eyelids) | $ 2,400 |
| 5 | Hair Transplant | $ 2,550 |
| 6 | Liposuction (Weight loss surgery) | $ 2,600 |
| 7 | Arm Liposuction | $ 2,630 |
| 8 | Full Face Fat Graft | $ 2,630 |
| 9 | Forehead Reduction | $ 5,260 |
| 10 | Rhinoplasty (Nose job) | $ 6,000 |
| 11 | Chin Surgery | $ 6,340 |
| 12 | Facelift | $ 6,760 |
| 13 | Breast Augmentation | $ 6,765 |
| 14 | Facial Contouring | $ 9,000 |
| 15 | Breast Reduction | $ 10,100 |
Rhinoplasty
- Our skilled surgeons design the nose shape using precise facial measurements.
- Doctors often perform septum corrections during surgery to improve breathing.
- The nose is reshaped with cutting-edge techniques, ensuring both form and function.
Breast Augmentation
- Surgeons make small incisions in the armpits, areola, or under the breast.
- Implants are inserted with precision using an HD endoscope and expert technique.
- They ensure no double folds, implant rotation, or capsular contracture occurs.
Liposuction
- You can choose either local anesthesia or conscious sedation for your procedure.
- The Accusculpt machine is used to dissolve fat in targeted areas.
- A cannula is then used to safely remove the dissolved fat from the body.
Botox and Fillers
- You can opt for topical anesthesia if desired.
- For sensitive areas like the lips, request icing from your doctor.
- A very fine needle will be used to inject Botulinum Toxin or other fillers.
Blepharoplasty
- Doctors customize the procedure based on face shape, conditions, and features.
- Their goal is to minimize bleeding, scarring, and swelling.
- Surgeons will make incisions to avoid excessive tissue removal and deep fixation.
Facelift
- You will receive general anesthesia for the procedure.
- The surgeon will create a 1-2 cm incision in front of your ear.
- The muscle causing skin sagging, known as SMAS, will be targeted and removed.
Buccal Fat Removal
- The anesthesiologist will administer conscious sedation.
- The surgeon will remove sagging skin and excess fat from the jowl area.
- This boosts skin elasticity and volume, giving you a more youthful appearance.
Eye Bag Removal
- Your surgeon will choose to either remove or transfer the under-eye fat.
- A small incision will be made under the eye to access the fat tissue.
- Once the fat is transferred or removed, the incision is quickly closed.
Arm Liposuction
- You can select either local anesthesia or conscious sedation.
- A machine called AccuSculpt is used to dissolve fat.
- A cannula is then used to remove the dissolved fat.
Full Face Fat Graft
- You will receive either freezing or topical anesthesia.
- Excess fat from your thighs or abdomen is extracted using centrifugal injections.
- Surgeons carefully inject the fat to create a 3D appearance on the sunken face.
Breast Reduction
- You will be placed under conscious sedation.
- The surgeon will choose from three types of incisions: Vertical, Areola, or O-shaped.
- Next, the surgeon will remove or fold the breast tissue, fat, and skin before closing the incision.
Chin Surgery
- An anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia.
- The surgeon removes the middle bone fragments to create a smaller chin.
- Any protruding jaw bones are removed to achieve a V-line chin shape.
Facial Contouring
- Doctors recommend general anesthesia for the procedure.
- Surgeons will remove any excessively protruding cheekbones.
- The bone will be secured with pins after the removal.
Hair Transplant
- The anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia.
- The surgeon will use a punch incision method to remove existing hair roots.
- Hair transplants will be placed in the small incisions afterward.
Forehead Reduction
- The anesthesiologist will provide conscious sedation.
- The surgeon will use an endoscope to make a small incision.
- The fixing plate helps reduce forehead wrinkles and sagging around the eyes.
Why Get Cosmetic Surgery in South Korea?
- Seoul is the "plastic surgery capital of the world," attracting 114,000 foreign patients annually.[2][3]
- Tourists from Japan and the UAE visit for discreet, high-quality surgeries not covered by insurance in their countries.
- Affordable procedures use advanced 3D analysis, HD endoscopy, and silicone allografts for less invasive rhinoplasty.
- Surgeons are affiliated with top international organizations like the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
- Clinics offer multilingual translators for English, Chinese, Japanese, and more.
Cosmetic Surgery in Seoul, Korea
Did you know?
Fun Fact: Cosmetic Surgery is so renowned in Seoul, Korea, that an entire street is dedicated to it. This street is called the Gangnam Gu area.
Looking for exploring countries other than Korea? Check out Plastic Surgery in Turkey as a destination for all your cosmetic surgery needs.
Types of Cosmetic Surgeries
Cosmetic surgeries come in two types: Invasive and Non-invasive. The difference is that the former breaks the skin barrier while the latter can be done without cutting the skin.
(Body fat removal)
(Nose job)
(Botox)
(usage of intense light)
Process of Getting Cosmetic Surgery
Procedure: Cosmetic Surgery in Seoul Korea
MTC will support you throughout the procedure. To get you started, our advisors will share your medical concerns with the right clinic. Before Surgery
Doctors will use a 3D CT scan to determine the precise anatomy of the target area.
An individually tailored surgical plan will be suggested.
Doctors determine the surgical plan according to several factors. For example, in rhinoplasty, depth, width, and curvature of the nasal septum and bone is key to plan the surgery.
Our partner clinics use best-in-class equipment during and after the surgery to ensure your safety
Your surgeon will give you instructions after the surgery to aid in safe recovery.
You are bound to face some bruising, so apply the prescribed ointment/ice for a few days.
Surgeons use injections to prevent scars from the surgery.
Doctors may suggest radio and laser frequency healing post-surgery. This will also reduce scarring.
Take enough rest for 3 days to 2 weeks for complete healing of your wound.
Your sutures will come off after 7 days, so stick to minimal movement.
Risks and Complications
There are some risks during or after the surgery as in any cosmetic procedure. Some of these include (but are not limited to):
Aesthetic vs. Reconstructive Plastic Surgery
People may opt to get plastic surgery for two reasons: Aesthetic or Reconstructive.
Aesthetic plastic surgery deals with enhancing physical appearance. People can change how they look or correct a deformed organ for boosting self-confidence.
- Deformities: People can modify their looks by correcting deformities.
- Confidence: Aesthetic surgery often boosts self-worth by improving appearance.
- Examples: Blepharoplasty, V-line jaw surgery, rhinoplasty, liposuction, breast augmentation, and tummy tucks.
Reconstructive plastic surgery is for individuals who have faced critical accidents that have deformed their appearance.
- Accidents: Loss of skin or bone during accidents requires skin graft surgery.
- Weight Gain: Liposuction is performed on people who have suddenly gained weight.
- Cancer: Breast cancer patients choose to get breast implants after tumor removal.
- Chronic Pains: Heavy breasts can cause back aches, which can be reduced by breast reduction surgery.
Why is Cosmetic Surgery So Popular in Seoul?
- K-Beauty: Every 1 in 3 women (19-29 year olds) in South Korea has undergone cosmetic surgery.[5] This trend started because of the high standards promoted as K-beauty.
- K-Pop: Korean pop music (K-Pop) has promoted a positive outlook on cosmetic surgery. This trend of cosmetic surgery in Korea has taken not only Koreans, but the world by storm.
Why Do People Get Cosmetic Surgery?
- Elective cosmetic surgery encourages artificial change in appearance, improving self-esteem.
- Those who undergo cosmetic surgery report better self-worth, self-esteem, and quality of life.
- Both men and women report feeling dissatisfied with some parts of their natural appearance.
- People with body dysmorphic disorders seek a solution to boost social well-being.
- The mind-body connection supports healing the heart through physical changes.
Did you know?
Korean resumes require a picture of the candidate. This tradition gave rise to the concept of “employment-related cosmetic surgery” in Korea. People believe their chances of being hired will increase with aesthetic reconstruction.
Check out this individual's before and after a facelift
Face Lift in Seoul, South Korea
Travel to Seoul
Before travelling to Seoul, make sure you have all the necessary permissions and documents:
A valid passport
Medical or tourist visa
For all stays under 90 days, US nationals do not require a visa to travel to Seoul.
Japanese citizens need a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) to visit South Korea. However, it’s a quick online process open even up to 4 days prior to your boarding.
Parental consent if you are under 18
Feel free to consult our experts at MTC for visa assistance for your trip to Seoul. Also, keep in mind that Korea can have extreme weather conditions, so pack accordingly.
Flights to Korea
The most convenient way to get to Seoul is by flight.
Here’s how you can get to Korea from some of the major US and Japanese cities by flight:
| From | Timing | Stops | Average |
| Los Angeles, U.S | 12h 55m | Non-stop | $370 |
| New York, U.S | 14h 55m | Non-stop | $560 |
| From | Timing | Stops | Average |
| Kyoto, Japan | 1h 55m | Non-stop | $89 |
| Tokyo, Japan | 2h 40m | Non-stop | $150 |
| From | Timing | Stops | Average |
| Penang, Malaysia | 9h 55m | Non-stop | $230 |
Tourism in Korea
A big plus of travelling to Seoul for plastic surgery is that you can explore the city. Seoul is quite safe for tourists, but try to avoid large crowds and gatherings. Before your surgery or post recovery, you can visit some popular tourist spots. Places like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village are known for their heritage.
Is Cosmetic Surgery in Seoul Safe?
Yes, cosmetic surgery in Seoul is safe. The surgeons hold international accreditations from the likes of American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Doctors in Seoul use safer alternative techniques like silicone allografts instead of cartilage autografts. This reduces the risks involved, like infection.
What is the Success rate of Cosmetic Surgery in Seoul?
The success rate of cosmetic surgery in Seoul is 90%.[7]
Complications due to plastic surgery in Seoul are low, since only skilled reconstructive surgeons are involved.
Best Clinics for Reconstructive Surgery in Seoul
Leading full-service plastic surgery clinic in Seoul, South Korea.
It offers a full range of plastic surgery and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.
The name "RUBY" represents the clinic’s mission: "Refresh, Unique, Beautiful, Young."
They aim to enhance features while ensuring these improvements harmonize with the individual's overall beauty.
- Board-certified Plastic Surgeons
- State-of-the-art Techniques
Specializes in plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine, and cosmetology.
With a highly experienced surgical team, the clinic prioritizes patient satisfaction, safety, and trust.
It attracts patients from Asia, Australia, the USA, Canada, and Russian-speaking countries.
- 2018 Established
- MOHW Accredited
Best Surgeons for Cosmetic Surgery in Seoul Korea
Dr. Seung Jun Lee
Dr. Lee is a board-certified plastic surgeon.
With extensive experience in body contouring, he delivers personalized cosmetic treatments.
Education
- Hallym University School of Medicine
Memberships
- International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Korean Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Dr. Im Young Min
As CEO of VG Plastic Surgery, board-certified Dr. Min is licensed by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare.
He has held leadership roles in renowned clinics like Topface, JK, Grand, and Yuno Plastic Surgery.
Education
- The Catholic University of Korea
Memberships
- American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
- Korean Association of Plastic Surgeons
Dr. Son Won Il
Dr Won is the Clinical Assistant Professor at the Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital. He is also the Professor at Dept. of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in the same hospital. He has been the former Director of Ramiche Plastic Surgery and ID Hospital.
Memberships
- Member of the International Confederation for Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
How Does MTC Select and Partner with Hospitals
At MTC, we support you throughout to ensure a seamless experience. Here's what we offer:
- We work with JCI accredited clinics worldwide renowned for serving international patients.
- The clinics are situated in safe, well-populated areas adhering to strict sterilization and security protocols.
- MTC maintains rigorous quality checks to ensure high standards of care.
- Patient feedback enables us to recommend the safest medical facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I Eligible for Cosmetic Surgery?
If you are 18+ and in good overall health, you are eligible for most cosmetic procedures. If you are a smoker, refrain from smoking before the surgery and during the recovery stage.
How long will it take for double eyelid cosmetic surgery in Seoul?
It takes 20~30 minutes for a double eyelid cosmetic surgery in Seoul. However, the recovery can take 3-4 days.
How much will I save if I get cosmetic surgery in Seoul, Korea?
You will save 40%-60% if you get cosmetic surgery in Seoul, Korea. Cosmetic surgery in South Korea starts from USD $ 2,400. The starting price for cosmetic surgery in the US is USD $ 6,500.
Conclusion
Cosmetic surgery in Seoul provides high-quality care, advanced techniques, and cost savings, making it an ideal destination for aesthetic transformation.
References
- Statista: Average cost of a rhinoplasty in Colombia, Mexico, and the United States 2021
- Statista: Number of foreign patients who visited plastic and cosmetic surgery departments in South Korea from 2009 to 2023
- Business Insider: People have the wrong idea about the 3 most popular procedures in South Korea, the plastic surgery capital of the world
- Japan National Health Info: Japan Health Care Info- What it Covers
- Business Insider: People have the wrong idea about the 3 most popular procedures in South Korea, the plastic surgery capital of the world
- Embassy of Republic of Korea: Visa Information
- Statista: Satisfaction among U.S. patients following most common surgical cosmetic procedures as of 2024
Precautions used during surgery
- Unlimited Power Supply
- Defibrillator
- Oxygen Supply
- Thermoregulator
Experts present during surgery
- Anesthesiologist
- Precision surgeons
- Emergency response team
Patient monitoring system
- Real-time monitoring device
Infection control method
- Operating room contamination control
Equipment
- 3D CT Scanner
- HD Endoscope
- Accusculpt
- Sterilized precision tools
Initial Consultation with Treatment Plan Suggestion
- The procedure can take 30m - 2 hrs
- You will be placed under observation right after the surgery
- Major surgeries require hospitalization
Sutures for small surgeries are removed
Suture lines for major surgeries are removed
