Planning a trip to South Korea for plastic surgery may initially seem overwhelming, but fear not—we have compiled four invaluable tips to help you prepare before coming to Korea.

Online Consultations with Medical Tourism Agencies or Hospitals

While it might sound straightforward, scheduling an online consultation with medical tourism agencies or hospitals can significantly ease your journey. Before making the trip, discuss your desired procedures by sharing pictures for a comprehensive pre-visit consultation. Although in-person consultations are crucial, having a preliminary idea of your preferences ensures a smoother and faster discussion during your actual meeting with your surgeon. Consider medical tourism agencies like Docfinderkorea, which not only assist with consultations but also provide guidance on medical advice, hotel bookings, transportation, and more. We aim to simplify your journey, allowing you to focus on a smooth recovery and enjoy your time in Korea.

Hotel and Transportation

As previously mentioned, we assist patients in booking accommodations and arranging transportation services. While some patients opt to arrange their own lodging through platforms like Airbnb or hotel booking websites, we offer a crucial piece of advice: choose an accommodation near Gangnam or within the Seoul area. This recommendation stems from the necessity for patients to attend clinic appointments for check-ups, treatments, and stitch removals several times a week, depending on the clinic. While Docfinderkorea provides complimentary transportation services for surgery patients, having accommodation nearby proves advantageous. This proximity ensures timely arrival for appointments, particularly considering the heavy traffic congestion around the Gangnam area, especially during peak hours.

When traveling, particularly in Seoul, utilizing the subway or bus is often the most efficient mode of transportation. For optimal navigation, we advise travelers to equip themselves with two essential apps.

Firstly, "Subway Korea" is a user-friendly English app tailored specifically for navigating the subway system. It allows users to input their departure and arrival stations, providing comprehensive guidance throughout the journey. This app includes crucial information such as departure and arrival times, transfer details, and optimal routes with minimal transfers. It is highly recommended, even by long-term users like myself.

Secondly, the "Naver Map" or "Kakao Map" is great for navigating Korean streets. Given that Google Maps may not offer reliable or up-to-date information in Korea, these English-friendly map apps serve as reliable alternatives. Users can input destinations in English, and the apps offer four travel options: subway, bus, car, and walking, ensuring seamless navigation throughout your journey.

In South Korea, utilizing the T-money card simplifies payments for subway rides, bus journeys, and even taxi fares. These cards are readily available for purchase at the airport, convenience stores, and subway stations. Typically, the fare for a single subway or bus ride ranges from 1,250 to 1,400 Korean won. To ensure smooth travel, I suggest initially loading your T-money card with 10,000 KRW. Should you require additional funds, it's convenient to top up your card at any nearby convenience store. It's important to note that cash is the accepted method for adding value to your card.

Moreover, South Korea is renowned for its safety and convenience. If you find yourself lost, don't hesitate to reach out to us directly or seek assistance from locals. Most people are approachable and willing to offer assistance.

Packing for Korea

Preparing for a trip to Korea requires careful consideration of its diverse climate throughout the year. While the country experiences four distinct seasons, summers and winters can be particularly challenging without adequate preparation.

If you plan to visit Korea for plastic surgery between July and August, be prepared for temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C, often accompanied by high humidity. It is advisable to pack lightweight clothing to combat the heat, but also include a light jacket for indoor spaces where air conditioning can make things chilly.

Conversely, winters, spanning from November to February, bring freezing temperatures, often dipping below zero. Layering is key during this period, so pack thick padding or a warm jacket to stay cozy. Many Koreans opt for long paddings that provide optimal warmth, extending down to their legs.

On the day of surgery, prioritize comfort by wearing loose-fitting attire such as button-up or zippered tops. Additionally, choose comfortable shoes that can be easily removed and put back on as needed. By packing accordingly for Korea's variable climate and considering comfort during medical procedures, you'll ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.

Pack lightly and bring only the essentials. Many patients come to Korea and buy skincare and beauty products, souvenirs, and The Shilla Duty-Free shopping goods.

Here's a checklist of essential items to bring along for your trip:
Reference pictures for your surgery: 

While it's important to understand that surgery results may not perfectly mirror reference images, providing visual examples of your desired outcome can aid the surgeon in understanding your goals more clearly.

Charging adapter: 

In Korea, the Type F adapter is used, and the electrical supply operates at 220V and 60Hz. It's advisable to bring a power adapter/converter or purchase one upon arrival at the airport to ensure compatibility with local outlets.

Cash or credit card: 

It is advised to carry both cash and a credit card during your stay. Be sure to check your credit card's international spending limit, as some companies impose restrictions. While debit cards are suitable for everyday transactions, please note that clinics may not accept them as a form of payment.

Hat, sunglasses, and mask: 

Protecting delicate post-surgery areas from direct sunlight is crucial to promote healing and prevent scarring. Many patients find it beneficial to purchase hats, sunglasses, and masks locally to shield their stitches from harmful UV rays. Additionally, wearing these items can provide a sense of privacy and comfort while navigating public spaces post-surgery.

Plan Where You Want To Go!

To make the most of your visit to South Korea, I would recommend you plan out the places you want to explore and the local cuisines you want to experience. Arriving without prior preparations can be overwhelming, given the plethora of options available. Additionally, considering the downtime anticipated during your recovery period, it is advisable to incorporate leisurely walks into your itinerary. This not only aids in post-surgery swelling but also allows you to immerse yourself in the charm of your surroundings.

Embarking on a plastic surgery journey to a foreign country may seem daunting, but with these tips and the support of a medical tourism agency like Docfinderkorea, we strive to make your experience as comfortable and relaxed as possible. If you're interested in reaching out to our online consultants, click here.