Before arriving in South Korea for plastic surgery, many unanswered questions come to mind. We have gathered the most frequently asked questions from our previous patients, and in this article, we will answer and satisfy all your curiosities.

1. How much does plastic surgery in Korea cost?

One of the most appealing aspects of plastic surgery in Korea is its affordability. The competitive nature of the plastic surgery market has driven prices down significantly, making procedures more accessible for individuals seeking enhancement. Moreover, when considering the overall expenses, including accommodation, flights, and other related costs, Korea often proves to be more economical compared to many other countries.  

Another advantage is that the prices of procedures typically include taxes. This means that after your surgery, you can obtain a tax refund receipt and claim your refund at the airport, further reducing your overall expenses. However, it is crucial to remember that affordability does not equate to quality. Some smaller and less expensive clinics may not have full-time anesthesiologists on staff. Consequently, post-surgery, patients may not receive adequate monitoring or treatment, posing serious risks to their health and safety. When considering plastic surgery in Korea, it is essential to consider the quality of care alongside the cost.

If you are interested in specific procedures and their associated costs, reach out to Docfinderkorea. By sending your photos, you can gain a personalized treatment plan with insights into the pricing and the potential options available to you.

2. Why are Korean doctors good?

Several factors contribute to South Korea’s reputation as the best destination for plastic surgery.

Firstly, the rigor and competitiveness of the education system cannot be overlooked. To become a doctor in Korea, one must rank within the top 1% of their entire school. From this elite group, only a select few are chosen to specialize in plastic surgery, given the intense competition within the field. This stringent selection process ensures that only the most skilled individuals become plastic surgeons, assuring patients that they are in highly capable hands.

Secondly, experience plays a significant role in the proficiency of Korean plastic surgeons. Plastic surgery is incredibly prevalent in Korea, with a large portion of the population either considering or undergoing procedures. It is estimated that around 1 in 3 South Korean women aged 19 to 29 have undergone plastic surgery. With such widespread demand, Korean doctors are consistently engaged in surgical procedures, honing their expertise through practical experience. This high volume of surgeries enables them to refine their skills and become specialists in their respective fields, providing patients with a level of proficiency that is hard to match elsewhere.

3. Is it okay to fly back after getting plastic surgery?

Generally, it is recommended to stay in Korea for a certain period after surgery to ensure proper healing and address any potential complications. Each clinic has different days for stitch removal, but you can also get them removed in your home country. Here are the approximate days of stitch removal for each procedure.

• 5~7 days: thread lift
• 7~8 days: eyes, fat graft, accusculpt
• 7~15 days: nose, breast, liposuction, facial contouring
• 10~14 days: forehead endotine
• 14~15 days: two jaw, facial contouring, face and neck lift, hairline lowering, hair transplant, abdominoplasty

4. Is it safe to get multiple surgeries at once?

Combining multiple surgeries can increase the complexity of the procedure and recovery process. It is crucial to consult with your surgeon and medical team to assess the risks and benefits based on your health condition and the extent of the procedures.

5. Does the surgery cost include deswelling treatments and health checkups?

The inclusion of deswelling treatments and health checkups in the surgery cost can vary depending on the clinic. All clinics working with Docfinderkorea include health checkups in their surgery prices. Health checkups include blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, and EKG.

6. Do I need to be able to speak Korean?

No, you will not have to speak or understand any Korean to get plastic surgery in Korea. For clinic visits and doctor consultations, Docfinderkorea managers will help you translate, or clinics will have their interpreters as well.

7. Can I travel by myself to get plastic surgery in Korea?

Yes, you can travel alone for plastic surgery in Korea. Many patients travel to Korea alone. Having support or assistance during the recovery process would be great, but not everyone has the time to come to Korea. No need to worry! Docfinderkorea managers will be there to give emotional support and advice to all patients. We will be your friends and family in South Korea.

8. What is the payment method for plastic surgery in Korea?

Payment methods for plastic surgery in Korea are either cash or credit card. There will be no credit card charges from the clinic. Debit cards are not accepted as payment at the clinics. It is important to note that the surgery will be postponed if the surgery fee cannot be settled in full before the surgery. If you plan to use a credit card for payment, double-check your credit card overseas limit with the card issuing bank before coming to Korea.

If you are planning on getting a free consultation, there may be an additional fee for in-office tests such as X-rays, CT, ultrasound, blood test, EKG, etc.

9. How long do I have to stay in Korea?

The duration of your stay in Korea will depend on the type of procedure(s) you undergo and your healing process. Typically, patients are advised to stay for at least a few days to a couple of weeks post-surgery. Docfinderkorea can help coordinate your travel plans and accommodations accordingly.

10. Do I need to get health checkups before coming to Korea?

Pre-operative health checkups may be required by some clinics to ensure you are fit for surgery. Docfinderkorea can guide the necessary pre-operative preparations and assist in arranging any required health checkups. However, it is important to note your health conditions before coming to Korea. If you want to plan safe surgery without schedule disruption, we recommend you undergo pre-examination in your home country. You should also take care of your health before surgery by avoiding excessive drinking.

11. How safe is plastic surgery in Korea?

Plastic surgery in Korea is generally safe, especially when performed by qualified and experienced surgeons in accredited facilities. Docfinderkorea works with reputable clinics and surgeons to ensure patient safety and satisfaction.

12. Can my procedures be covered by insurance?

Cosmetic procedures are typically not covered by insurance unless they are deemed medically necessary. It is advised to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.

13. Do I need a visa or any documents for plastic surgery in Korea?

Depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay, you may need a visa to enter Korea. Here is a link to the countries that require visas to enter South Korea: https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10101

14. Are accommodations free?

No, Docfinderkorea does not provide free accommodation; however, we assist our patients with booking hotels and recommend ones that are nearby clinics. And depending on the surgeries, some clinics provide free accommodations!

15. How do I choose the right doctor for me?

Choosing your doctor and clinic can be one of the hardest steps for anyone getting plastic surgery. There are over 600 plastic surgery clinics in Seoul, and each has different qualities and prices. This is why many patients opt for the services of medical tourism agencies. At Docfinderkorea, we only recommend patients to board-certified specialists with the most experience. We endlessly check our partner medical institution’s safety standards and customer satisfaction, to best achieve our patient’s goals in a safe and clean surgery environment. Contact us today for a free consultation!