travel to korea for plastic surgery

The Guide to Plastic Surgery in Seoul | Best Plastic Surgery Clinics & Popular Procedures

A guide to plastic surgery in Korea for first timers coming to Seoul

South Korea is known worldwide for its distinct culture, delectable food, and first-rate technology, but did you also know that it’s the  world capital of plastic surgery ? With thousands of clinics located in Seoul alone, South Korea sees more than  one hundred thousand foreign visitors  each year for cosmetic and medical tourism.

Plastic Surgery in Korea

Best ways to figure everything out.

• THE PLUS Plastic Surgery Clinic
• Made Young Plastic Surgery
• Haru Clinic
• Seojin Plastic Surgery
• View Clinic
• Maxwell Hair Transplant Clinic
• Minish Dental Clinic
• Lydian Liposuction Clinic

1. V-line Surgery

2. rhinoplasty, 3. eye surgery, plastic surgery prices in seoul.

• Korean Plastic Surgery Before After Pictures

Planning Cosmetic Surgery Trip To Korea

Frequently asked questions.

Have any questions about the best plastic surgery clinics in Korea or about any of the plastic surgery procedures? Feel free to reach out to us on WhatsApp with any question you might have! Click here to contact us on WhatsApp

1. Shin Medical, Medical Concierge Service

2. Real Self, Online Platform

Real Self is an online healthcare marketplace for beauty treatments. They help potential patients connect with physicians, mostly in western countries, and they are a great place to read reviews about different doctors. In the past few years, Real Self has become popular with US residents. Real Self

3. Purse Forum

Best Plastic Surgery Clinics in Seoul

1. the plus plastic surgery clinic, 2. made young plastic surgery clinic, 3. haru clinic, 4. seojin plastic surgery clinic, 5. view clinic , 6. maxwell hair transplant clinic, 7. minish dental clinic, 8. lydian liposuction clinic, best korean plastic surgery procedures.

With so many plastic surgery options, how can one know where to start? There are three key cosmetic procedures that top the rankings in South Korea: V-line surgery, rhinoplasty, and eye surgery.

Korean Plastic Surgery Before and After Pictures

1. Consultation   The first thing you want to do after deciding you want to come to South Korea for a plastic surgery procedure is to book an online consultation with a clinic in Seoul. This may seem daunting, especially when you don’t speak the language. Thankfully, most clinics today have English speaking staff. In addition, you can use one of the many translation services  offered by Gangnam Medical Tour Center . Lastly, to avoid any confusion whatsoever, you may want to consider working with a medical tourism company. This service is guaranteed to avoid miscommunication surrounding any questions or concerns you might have.    2. Book Procedure   Before purchasing your plane ticket, be sure to check how long the recovery time is for your specific procedure. It is highly recommended to schedule consultations and procedures in advance before making travel arrangements. This is because availability differs depending on the time of the year. Additionally, some clinics may require a deposit to reserve your date and operation type.   3. Book Flights   Once your procedure is confirmed and the deposit has been paid, book your flight tickets. Additionally make sure to check visa requirements,  find more info here .    4. Make travel arrangements   Booking a room near Gangnam is strongly recommended for plastic surgery visits, as its convenient location will aid in your recovery period. What’s more, Gangnam is located directly on a major subway line and is within walking distance from three more plastic surgery centers: Apgujeong, Sinsa, and Sinnonhyon.

How much does it cost to have plastic surgery done in Korea?

Is south korea good for plastic surgery, what is the most popular area of seoul for getting plastic surgery.

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• PLASTIC SURGERY
• HAIR TRANSPLANT
• VISION CORRECTION
• GENERAL HOSPITAL
• BEFORE & AFTER
• HOW IT WORKS
• KOREAN PLASTIC SURGERY EXPLAINED
• NON-SURGICAL

SEOUL GUIDE MEDICAL

Beauty and medical service at its finest.

• How It Works

1. DISCOVER

Contact us and get a customized treatment plan

Choose your medical procedures and get ready for Korea

3. CONGRATULATIONS

We meet you in Korea, take care of everything for you

Analyze your skin and get treatments to make you shine

Find the best doctors, clinics and get a personalized consultation

Everything from medical check ups to transplants and more

Get a perfect smile in as little as just one day!

See better today, live better today

REAL PATIENTS

See our patients and their dreams turned into reality

Buy the products which are perfect for after care

Testimonials

What our patients say about us.

“For the past 3 years, I have used Seoul Guide Medical to take care of my teeth, my skin and I chose them to help me with my Rhinoplasty as well! They fixed my broken nose from my bike accident,” Xander England

“SGM has helped me get all kinds of treatments here in Seoul and they take care of all my international friends. Whenever anyone needs a clinic, I point them to SGM first. They are trustworthy and there is no one more knowledgeable. They are best for a reason. SGM, thank you!” Amy Aleha Canada

“I am from Saudi Arabia and many of the gulf region embassies ask me to advise medical tourism patients coming from abroad. I always send them to SGM because I trust them 100%. For years they have taken care of hundreds of our people with excellent results. ” Yaser Khalifa Saudi Arabia

“I had upper and lower eye blepharoplasty, lower eye fat repositioning, double chin lipo, arm lipo, 360 tummy lipo, leg lipo and a tummy tuck. It all turned out so well! They even accepted my request to have this video recorded as I want to show other brave men and women about my journey. ” Susan James Canada

” I was recommended to SGM through my embassy for skin treatment and I am so happy they did! I was very scared because I can’t speak Korean well yet but they took care of me and made it so easy. I asked so many questions and they answered everything. Enji Eldev Mongolia

#1 Medical Tourism Provider

We only work with the best doctors and top-rated hospitals in Seoul, as we have insider knowledge and relationships with all of them and the Seoul Metropolitan Government. We are fully licensed, and all our partner hospitals guarantee their work. From airport pick up, to help with transportation, to securing accommodations, and any problem you have, we will be with you every step of the way, this is our guarantee!

How Does It Work?

We Are Featured On

American news media NBC Washington created a 2 part series on Seoul Guide Medical and plastic surgery in Korea. As Korea’s medical tourism leader, Seoul Guide Medical was chosen for this special report.

Seoul Guide Medical was chosen by Forbes Magazin as the top medical tourism company from almost 1700 companies in Korea as the leader in this industry.

Canadian News

The Canadian news company chose Seoul Guide Medical as the most trusted name in Korean medical tourism.

KOREAN GOVERNMENT CERTIFIED

STAY CONNECTED

Address( head-office), commited to korea.

SGM does not accept walk-in patients at our office. If you wish to have a consultation, you must have an online consultation first.

COLLABORATION & CAREER

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South Korea's Premier Medical Tourism Service

Medical travel, made easy.

Shin Medical (based in Seoul, South Korea) helps international patients receive excellent plastic surgery and medical treatments at our partner clinics for a range of procedures including but not limited to rhinoplasty, eye surgery, liposuction, vision correction, body contouring, hair transplants, breast correction, dental care, skin treatments and more.

We pride ourselves on co-ordinating the highest quality medical & cosmetic services as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. We can organise all arrangements, transfers, accommodation and in-clinic translations, if required.

The Process

How it Works

Shin medical is with you every step of the way.

Contact us through our contact page and get a free online consultation.

Online Consultation

Our team will discuss and evaluate your case with you and we’ll get back to you with the most suitable procedure type, recovery time, pricing and Korean clinic details.

Confirmation

Once your deposit has been paid, your procedure date and any follow-up treatment dates will be confirmed.

We will support and facilitate your entire procedure process & will make post-operative care arrangements. Additionally, we provide in-clinic translation to eliminate all language barriers.

Additional Assistance

We can arrange transport from the airport to hotel, specialists, and hospital if requested.

We will help you get back to your accommodation once your doctor approves your release.

Get Started Today!

Contact us for a FREE online consultation

Explore what we do, shin medical offers premium medical tourism services.

Shin Medical services include:

• 24/7 Consultations
• Partnerships with the best doctors and clinics in South Korea
• Co-ordination and scheduling of medical procedures and follow up appointments.
• Transfer from airport, where necessary.
• In-clinic translations.
• Accommodation arrangements for patients and accompanying support people.
• We provide procedure costs prior to admission to medical clinic.

Why Use Shin Medical?

Advantages of using us for your medical journey to korea:.

• Cost-Effective : No extra fees compared to direct clinic prices.
• Personalized Advice : Tailored recommendations for your specific needs.
• Comprehensive Service : Management of appointments and accommodations for total convenience.
• Proven Expertise : Years of experience advising thousands of patients.
• Trusted Network : Access to vetted partner clinics & world-class medical facilities that eliminate scam risks.
• Continuous Support : Full spectrum care from arrival to departure.
• Quality Outcome : Focus on high-quality results, reducing the need for follow-up revision procedures.

Patient Reviews

What our patients are saying

I used Shin Medical after some recent knee surgery and they were really professional and able to customise a care package for me. They have both English and Korean speakers in the team, which means everything is accessible for our recovery. Highly recommend the Shin Medical team.

I have had 3 different surgeries done and I have used Shin Medical for all of the procedures. Lower blepharoplasty, face and neck lift and multiple laser proceedures to my face, backs of hands and arms. All for anti-aging! I am sooo happy with Shin Medical and their care and services! I highly recommend them to help you find the right treatment and plastic surgeon for your care!! You will love them!!!!

Very good Service through super fun and kind personnel. I had a laser skin treatment and was perfectly consulted and accompanied throughout the entire time. Iam very satisfied with the result and the treatment in the clinic was very professional.

I was shopping around for hair transplant options looking at several other agencies. They were very communicative and explained the process very clearly. They provided translating, transportation and consulting services throughout my time with them. Overall very satisfied and would recommend to anyone interested in getting plastic surgery in Korea.

I am a digital nomad and working around the world often makes big medical decisions daunting and stressful as I don't often speak the language. I've worn glasses/contacts since I was little and have been wanting to get eye corrective surgery forever. I know it's generally less expensive in Korea, so I decided I would bite the bullet while here. I was overwhelmed by the amount of clinics available and had no idea how to choose a good clinic. That's where Shin Medical helped me most. They introduced me to an amazing clinic and ensured I was well taken care of throughout the process. I had the SMILE surgery done and my eyesight is now better than with corrective lenses. I couldn't be happier. If you want to get a service done without dealing with the hassle, I would def recommend Shin Medical.

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Information

Latest Blog

We post custom, curated, content to help you get the information you need

• Cosmetic Surgery

SMILE – The newest vision correction technique

Hair transplantation – What is it? And, which one is best for me.

Managing expectations of beauty standards: Asian vs Caucasian

Facial rejuvenation – What is it all about?

Things to remember before surgery

Hair loss prevention and post hair transplant care

you don't just get a procedure; you get an experience.

We are a government licensed plastic surgery medical tourism agency in South Korea. Our goal is to provide you with a total care service that has all the necessary information or services you need related to your procedures in Korea. ‍

Are you planning a plastic surgery trip to Korea but you...

...are overwhelmed with choosing a clinic among hundreds of clinics in Seoul

...are feeling unsure about traveling alone to a foreign country where English isn't the primary language

...want a package deal but with no extra cost

...need assistance planning your trip & during your trip so you don't have to stress

...need a trustworthy guidance from an industry expert to ensure you get the most value, without wasting time and money

If any of the above applies to you...

That's precisely why we exist. ‍ We are a plastic surgery concierge based in Korea, dedicated to ensuring your plastic surgery journey to Korea is absolutely smooth. When you choose Beauty hopper, we will help you choose the right Doctor for your specific procedure and plan out the rest of the trip for you while also helping you cut costs. We are here to guide you every step of the way, so you can have the best beauty trip to Korea. We're going to help you with consultation to reservation, transportation, translation and more!

But here's the thing...

While Korean doctors and clinics boast for their exceptional standards, they, like any other, are not immune to occasional errors. We want you to keep in mind that in reality, no clinic can claim to be completely free of complaints, especially considering the subjective nature of surgical outcomes. At Beauty hopper, our goal is to only recommend the clinics and doctors we are absolutely confident in to our patients. This is why we maintain a strict monitoring process, and we make sure to constantly assess our patient's satisfaction rates and complaint records from clinics. This helps us effectively reduce the likelihood of accidents or instances of malpractice that could occur at any given clinic.

With Beauty hopper, you get these extra services you won't receive from a clinic- FOR FREE!

♥ reservation, ♥ medication, ♥ translation, ♥ personal coordinator, ♥ transportation, ♥ 24/7 fast support, why should i go through a concierge, it's the smarter choice, planning a plastic surgery trip to korea without any guidance can be challenging, and can take months to research and plan. even for locals, selecting a clinic can be overwhelming due to the multitude of options available. online reviews, though present, are often riddled with marketers, making it difficult to discern genuine information. however, having an experienced and trustworthy concierge by your side, who has extensive knowledge of the industry, will significantly simplify your entire process ., why do we provide our services for free, our services are free to you, but not to the clinics. in exchange for providing all the services on our end, we collect a service fee from the clinic., but will your services cost me more, it may seem too good to be true, but rest assured that our services really do come at no additional cost to you while some concierge services may provide quotes with slightly inflated prices in exchange for higher commissions, at beauty hopper, we offer you the exact amount you would be quoted directly by the clinic. in fact, we even have the ability to secure additional promotional discounts in certain cases, why would the clinics want to work with you if they have to pay you, the answer is simple: we make their life easier through our marketing efforts, complimentary services, customer service, and attentive patient care, we not only save clinics their valuable time but also help them cut costs., why should i choose beauty hopper .

Since 2018, we have been actively involved in the industry, acquiring valuable experience from various clinics in Seoul, making us well-versed in the intricacies of this field. We understand the challenges of finding the perfect clinic, as we have been in your shoes. Moreover, we have years of firsthand experience assisting patients during procedures and working at the clinics. This is why we can offer you the information and care you need with confidence.

24 hour support

We provide 24 hour support from the moment you arrive to Korea until you leave. We will take care of you at all stages of recovery.

Simplify your process

We will handle all the planning for you, so you can have a stress-free trip and procedure.

Our services come at no extra cost to you

Our service fees are covered by the clinics. So there are no additional cost to the patient, and in fact, by choosing Beauty hopper, you will save more cost & time.

State of the art medical facilities

Get your procedure done at the finest clinics in Seoul through our services. Our dedicated team is committed to helping patients find their ideal surgeon, ensuring a seamless and pain-free operation within a positive and supportive environment.

Gallery of our partner facilities

How to get started ‍

You can either complete the contact form on our website or you can directly contact us through email or WhatsApp – whichever communication platform you prefer!

Arrange schedule

After discussing your surgical plan and clinic of choice we will schedule and confirm the date of your arrival.

See you soon!

Catch your flight to Korea! Your pick-up driver will be waiting for you at the airport.

What is an experience?

At Seoul Cosmetic Surgery, we want your medical trip to Korea to be more than a trip. Indeed, we want it to be an experience for you. Seoul Cosmetic Surgery offers curated medical tourism packages, above all. Whether you want to explore more of Korean food or hit all the spots from that Korean drama you watched, we are here to help. Most importantly, we want to ensure that you not only receive the best medical treatments in Seoul but also having as much fun and relaxation as possible.

Our Medical Tourism Packages

Indeed, we have a variety of medical tourism packages to choose from. As a result, these plans depend on the amount of time you have to travel after receiving your procedures and the types of services you are seeking. In fact, all our package options include a curated tour that is scheduled around your treatment plan. And meets your criteria. Additionally, each of our packages ensure that you are the center of attention and all your needs and wants are always met. What’s more is each of our medical tourism packages come with add ons, making it even more customizable. So you can have the best time while getting the best results

Package Options

Signature Package

Our Signature Package is fit for those who want a quick trip to Seoul while still being pampered. In fact, we still cater to your every need and allow you to explore the parts of Seoul that interest you the most. 

• One-on-One personalized services
• 24hr Accessibility
• Premium Beauty Consulting + Design
• Scheduling Procedures + Appointments
• 4 star hotel & breakfast
• Airport pickup/drop off
• Transportation services for all required clinic checkups
• Trained medical translator
• One day Curated Tour (in Seoul)

Timeless Package

On the other hand, our Timeless Package is for those of you who want to spend a little more time in Seoul. As a result, you receive even more sublime treatments and can explore even more of Seoul. Similarly, we cater to your every need and even help you pop out to the areas surrounding Seoul that pique your interest.  

• Everything in Signature Package+
• 5 star hotel & breakfast
• Transportation services throughout the trip (Full Chauffeur Services)
• Three day Curated Tour (Two days in Seoul, One day outside of Seoul)

Ultimate Package

Further, our Ultimate Package is for those of you who are seeking to have the most relaxing time in Korea. As well as have some time on your hands. Indeed, we cater to your every need and want. And ensure that you are totally relaxed by the end of your stay. Moreover, we provide you with an in depth tour of Seoul and a comprehensive tour of the area surrounding Seoul. So you can have your procedures done, relax, and tour around Korea knowing you are in safe hands. 

• Everything in Signature and Timeless Package+
• VIP medical travel coordinator throughout the trip
• Recovery healing therapy & massage & skin care
• Recovery nutritional therapy
• Five day Curated Tour (Three days in Seoul, Two days outside of Seoul)

Image Consulting

During this 2-hour 1:1 private session, we will talk about your interests and expectations to determine what style is good for achieving your goals. In fact, each session is catered to you specifically. So, you know you will be getting the best advice that suits you and your goals.  As a result, you will know what to wear, how to style your hair, and what makeup looks to aim for by the end of your session. In addition, a personalized style chart including all your information and style tips will be emailed to you after the session. So rest assured you will be receiving the best image consulting that Seoul has to offer!

Hair Styling

Additionally, we offer a hair styling session with some of Seoul’s best hair dressers as an add on to any of our packages. Similarly, your hairstyle will be decided based on your personal goals and wants. Then we provide the hairstyle to your hair stylist and provide any translations necessary. In fact, this hair styling add on includes cut, perm or coloring and treatment. Indeed, our goal is having you look your very best! So relax knowing that your hair is in good, capable hands! If you would like to try something new, take a look to our article Hair trends: Korea versus America .

Makeup Lesson

What’s more is we offer a professional makeup application lesson add on so you can learn the best makeup tips to get the style and look you want. In fact, this is a 1:1 private session with some of the best makeup artists in Korea. So you know that your every need or concern is properly catered too. During the 1-1.5 hours, you will learn how to apply makeup with your current products. As well as find what other products/colors work best for you. Similarly, we will teach you various makeup tips to ensure that you are always looking fresh and at your best. Just ask us for more information on how you can start looking your best today!

Plastic Surgery Trips to South Korea +82-1661-2993

Who are we.

Licensed Medical Tourism Agency in Korea

Seoul TouchUp is a government-approved medical tourism agency in Korea. We are one of the few government-approved medical tourism agencies in South Korea.

Over the years, Seoul TouchUp has rewritten the definition of 'medical travel agency'. Being a full one-stop medical service provider, now, we are also a "beauty consulting & tourism company" for those who want to come to South Korea for cosmetic plastic surgery.

Beauty Consulting? Why is it needed?

Having plastic surgery should be your once-in-your-life decision and let professionals guide you to make it more perfect. It is definitely not the simplest of decisions to make, even more so when there is an abundance of plastic surgery clinics and agencies sprawled throughout Korea claiming to be the "best". Which one really lives up to its name, which will you trust and go forward with your decision? Well. How did we help more than hundreds of clients for the past years?

Enter the SEND approach.

Seoul TouchUp's SEND Approach

S afe -Medical tourism comes with its risks. We will stand for you and speak for you even in unexpected situations when you are here in Korea.

E asy - Save time and worry by entrusting your life-changing beauty trip to the experts, we will aid you on your search for the best of the best.

N ot expensive - Take advantage of our affordable packages. You can find your money's worth with our reasonable prices.

D edicated - You are not going to be here, alone. Our medical tourism coordinators will be guiding you, in and out of the clinics.

Likewise, we can help you to access the right medical practitioners and doctors, give advise on the best possible route to take, identify fair and unfair prices -- so you won't be getting the short end of the stick!

We combine leisure and peaceful recuperation in your complete anonymity as you will be away from the pressures of daily life. Let Seoul TouchUp guide you in a seamless, hassle-free management where we will care for you from the start to finish of your trip.

What You Can Get Out of Seoul TouchUp

Premium Arrangement

We will contact the clinics, and help you get more attention and care from them

Customised Packages

Jump-start your plastic surgery with various TouchUp travel plans

VIP Privacy

Get the celebrity-level privacy protection and safety

Community Support

Ask the experts today at our plastic surgery forum

TouchUp Promotions

Discount Coupon, Promotional Emails, Forum Points & Many More

Seoul TouchUp Medical Tourism Coordinators

Seoul TouchUp's Vehicles for Safety and Comfort

Seoul TouchUp is Supported by

• KHIDI - Officially registered at the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI)
• Medical Korea - Korean Medical Tourism Association
• KTO - Medical Tourism Partnership with the Korean Tourism Organization
• Ministry of Health & Welfare - Seoul TouchUp is approved by the Ministry of Health & Welfare
• KIPO -The Seoul TouchUp name and logo are protected by Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO)

Do you want to know how you can experience Seoul TouchUp?

• How it Works
• Terms & Policies
• TouchUp Packages
• Surgery Overview
• Korean Plastic Surgery Cost

Medical Tour in KOrea

Medical tourism packages, fully custom medical tours in korea.

The thought of receiving medical treatment in a foreign country can be daunting. Not being able to speak the language or being unfamiliar with your surroundings can make you feel vulnerable, but don’t worry. We’re here to help make your experience stress-free, comfortable and even enjoyable!

Trusted Doctors and Specialised Hospitals

We can determine your needs during an initial consultation and introduce you to experienced medical doctors and specialised hospitals offering the high-quality treatments you desire. In addition, we will be able to provide accurate pricing and suggest appropriate schedules and events for your stay.

Fully Tailored Medical Tourism Packages

As a comprehensive medical tourism agency in Korea, we can provide a complete medical tourism package based on your needs and fully manage the entire process. Or, if you prefer, we can just fill in the blanks for your exiting arrangements. Our services are 100% tailored to your individual needs.

Best Guides in Seoul (No Middle Man!)

As a service-based medical tourism agency in Seoul, we understand that our success is directly related to the quality and professionalism of our guides and staff. Therefore, our senior management handpicks each staff member to ensure we have the best team and stand out from the crowd.

Comfort and Peace of Mind

We can be with you every step of the way, from initial consultation and introducing local doctors to booking treatments and handling the logistics. We can help remove stress by taking care of the details, leaving you to focus on your recovery and make the most of your time in Korea.

Medical Tourism Korea

South Korea is a well-regarded hot spot for medical tourism. With vast expertise, highly trained doctors, world-leading medical services, and low-cost treatment, there is no surprise that people flock here looking for medical tourism packages.

World-Class Healthcare Facilities

Highly advanced facilities and cutting-edge technology accompany world-class healthcare services. In addition, the government continuously monitors the quality of care provided through hospital accreditation and strict evaluation programs, ensuring patient safety comes first. International medical societies highly respect our physicians, specialists, and surgeons.

Fast and Affordable Treatment

The cost of medical tourism in Korea is meagre compared to those in the USA and Japan. For example, haemorrhoid surgery in the USA costs approximately 10.91 million won, while for a fraction of the cost (roughly 1.27 million won), you can receive the same, if not superior, treatment in Seoul. In addition, some cancer treatments in Korea cost half of what you would pay in Singapore or Thailand.

Highly Accomplished and Skilled Doctors

In Korea, medical excellence standards are so stringent that only the top 0.5% of medical students can pass the rigorous exams and become practising professionals. So when you come to Korea for your medical needs, you are in the most capable hands.

Hub for Clinical Trials (Forefront of the Future)

South Korea has become one of the top 10 locations worldwide to conduct clinical studies. This is due to a mix of clinical experience, infrastructure, population density (Seoul), a supportive government, and access to highly educated, well trained medical professionals.

Leading Medical Tourism Fields

South Korea is considered a world leader in cosmetic surgery (plastic surgery), dermatology, and dentistry. In addition, Korea ranks among the world’s top tier in treating cancers, cardiac and vascular diseases, spinal disc repair and organ transplantation. There’s no surprise then that these treatments form Korea’s most popular medical tours.

Plastic Surgery

Specialities of Korean surgeons include wrinkle removal, breast surgery, microsurgery, scar removal, skin grafting, botox, anti-ageing treatments and aesthetic surgeries such as nose / eyelid surgery, hair removal / replacement and breast augmentation / reduction.

Korea offers the best dentistry services globally, from orthodontics, prosthodontics, wisdom tooth extraction and implants, to teeth whitening and general dental care. Using the latest technology, Digital CT Systems and 3D CT x-ray technology, treatment is fast, world-leading and very affordable.

Dermatology

Korea dominates the dermatology industry, with Korean women well-known for their beautiful skin. From aesthetic treatments for hair loss, dark spots, acne and wrinkles to conditions like eczema, psoriasis, skin cancers, lesions and pigmentation, Korea is at the forefront with knowledge and expertise.

Infertility Treatment

Korean doctors can help treat blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, azoospermia, ovulation disorders, male infertility and Preimplantation Genetic Disorder (PGD). Treatments can include In Vitro Fertilization, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICIS), cryopreservation and artificial insemination.

Internal Medicine

Common ailments include paralysis, chronic fatigue syndrome, esophageal and gastrointestinal diseases, bowel disorders, pancreatic, liver and hematologic diseases, lumbar disc herniation, cervical disc herniation, scoliosis, spinal cord stenosis, facial palsy, obesity and weight management.

Cancer Treatment

Korea is a forerunner in robotic surgery, which can effectively remove cancerous cells in very thin and intricately intertwined lymph nodes. In addition, Korea has comparatively high survival rates for Thyroid, Breast, Cervical, Colon, Stomach, Liver, Lung and Pancreatic cancer treatments.

Orthopedics

Doctors are experts in treating pain from fractures, tendon injuries, meniscus, labral and rotator cuff tears, plantar fasciitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Common treatments include arthroscopic surgeries, hip and knee replacement, rotator cuff and spinal surgery, Meniscectomy and ACL reconstruction.

Ophthalmology

Ophthalmologists in Korea are very highly skilled and offer some of the best treatments in the world. Some of the most common treatments locally and for medical tourists include laser eye surgery, retinal detachment surgery, cataract surgery with IOL replacement and LASIK eye surgery.

Oriental Medicine

In oriental medicine, acupuncture and moxa cautery are used alongside natural herbal medicines to restore harmony among the organs. Oriental clinics in Korea combine oriental and western medicine to meet patients’ needs and are well known for curing spinal diseases through non-surgical treatment.

Guide for Medical Tourists Visiting Seoul

Before setting off for medical tourism in Seoul, here are a few things you should consider. The better prepared you are on your arrival, the smoother and more comfortable your experience will be.

Entry Visas for Korea South Korea has visa-free travel agreements with 112 countries lasting 30-180 days. However, if you require a medical visa to enter Korea, we can assist you.

Bring Your Medical Records Bringing your medical records, prescriptions, or a doctor’s note from your home country can help save costs and aid your Korean doctor in choosing the best treatment for you.

Finding a Doctor in Korea We can introduce trusted, well-known hospitals, treatment centres and specialist doctors in Seoul. Alternatively, you are of course, welcome to find your own.

Local Friend and Transport Be sure to have a local friend with private transportation to get you to and from your appointments and show you around. In this regard, we can help you feel right at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few common questions regarding medical tours and medical tourism in Korea. If you have any additional questions feel free to reach out to us at any time, and we’ll be happy to help.

What is a medical tourism package?

Medical tourism packages are fully customised around the needs of the patient and their comfort. Packages usually begin with a consultation and often include introducing trusted hospitals and doctors, booking medical procedures and accommodation, providing airport pick up, private transportation, an escort/interpreter and flexible post-treatment local tourism experiences.

How much does medical tourism in Korea cost?

With the enormous range of procedures, hospitals, and doctors in Korea, it is impossible to state exact costs for treatments and medical therapies. However, in general, most medical treatments and aesthetic surgeries can be up to 40% cheaper in Korea compared with the United States or Europe.

How much does a Korean plastic surgery tour package cost?

Each procedure requires differing amounts of time, resources and medical equipment, which means costs will vary greatly depending on what treatment you need. However, to give you some idea of how much a Korean plastic surgery tour package might cost, you can consider that in Korea, eyelid and nose surgery is generally offered at one third the cost of what you would pay in Japan.

How much do breast implants in Korea cost?

The cost of breast augmentation and breast implants in Korea will vary based on the type of procedure, options, and hospital you choose. However, as a general idea, you could save up to 50% compared to the cost of the same treatment in the US, Australia, New Zealand and the UK.

How to find and book medical tourism in Korea?

Statistics show that around 60% of medical tourists request the services of a medical tourism agency. In addition, a local medical tourism agency in Korea, like us, will be able to help introduce you to well-known, trusted clinics and doctors, as well as book procedures for you at affordable prices.

Is plastic surgery in Korea safe?

South Korea has the highest rate of plastic surgeries per capita worldwide, undergoing nearly 1 million procedures per year. Due to this high demand and consistent improvement of technologies, Korean plastic surgery is considered the most advanced in both safety and results.

How many foreigners go to Korea for plastic surgery?

Korea is regarded as the plastic surgery capital of the world. According to Statistica, in 2019, around 90,500 foreign patients visited Korea for plastic surgery.

Is South Korea good for medical tourism?

Healthcare in South Korea is very efficient, affordable and highly advanced, while patients’ satisfaction is consistently among the highest globally. In addition, Korea is a leader across many medical fields, making it a highly sought-after destination for medical tourism.

Private Tour Reviews

I got VIP to provide a fully managed medical tour package as it was my first time visiting South Korea. The hospital they introduced was very advanced and professional and the hotel was located close by in Gangnam. My Doctor spoke good English and my guide helped with translation everywhere else. Very satisfied and would recommend.

I had already booked a hotel and made arrangements with korean plastic surgery clinic introduced to me by a friend who had visited korea previously for treatment. So I only need a local guide to escort me to appointments help with the language barrier and show me around seoul. The service was completely flexible and my lovely guide was so comforting and great company. Post procedure my tours were well organised and flexible around how I felt that day…

– Kimberley

Very happy I booked with VIP Travel and would highly recommend them. They gave great recommendations during consulting. My doctor Dr Park was very experienced and explained everything clearly. My guide Sophie was very kind and attentive. She made my recovery so much more enjoyable and was so knowledgable about Korea. I couldn’t have asked for more.

– Terry Anne

Cost of Seoul Guides for Medical Tours

Starting from just

Up to 10 people

4 hours: 250,000

8 hours: 300,000

More than 10 people

4 hours: 300,000

8 hours: 400,000

Additional hour : 50,000

Airport transfer : 150,000 (one way)

chinese/japanese

Other languages.

4 hours: 400,000

8 hours: 700,000

4 hours: 500,000

8 hours: 800,000

Additional hour : 100,000

The above fares only include a tour guide in Seoul. Other costs for food, accommodation and transportation are not included. The minimum number of hours for the private tour service is 4 hours. When the tour exceeds 4 hours, the fare for 8 hours is applied. If the tour exceeds 8 hours, an additional hourly charge will be applied. When cancelling on the day of the tour, the cancellation charge is 100% of the booking cost. The company is not responsible for cancellation on the day of the tour due to the customer’s schedule changes or the weather. We accept Korean Won, US Dollars, Japanese Yen, and credit cards. The above fares do not include taxes. When required to issue a tax invoice, 10% tax will be added. Payment by credit card replaces a tax invoice.

Prices for Transportation

8 hours: 500,000

Additional hour: 70,000

Airport transfer: 300,000 (one way)

Capacity: 2 Recommend

Additional hour: 50,000

Airport transfer: 200,000 (one way)

Capacity: 4 Recommended

Airport transfer: 400,000 (one way)

Capacity: Up to 12

Charter bus

4 hours: 600,000

Additional hour: 100,000

Airport transfer: 700,000 (one way)

Capacity: Up to 40

The above fares include a driver, vehicle, and fuel. Other variable costs, including parking, toll gates, meals for the driver, and accommodation when travelling outside Seoul, are not included. The minimum number of hours for the private tour transport service is 4 hours. When the tour exceeds 4 hours, the fare for 8 hours is applied. If the tour exceeds 8 hours, an additional hourly charge will be applied. When cancelling on the day of the tour, the cancellation charge is 100% of the booking cost. The company is not responsible for cancellation on the day of the tour due to the customer’s schedule changes or the weather. We accept Korean Won, US Dollars, Japanese Yen, and credit cards. The above fares do not include taxes. When required to issue a tax invoice, 10% tax will be added. Payment by credit card replaces a tax invoice.

Already Have Everything Planned? (Book Online Now)

Already found a specialist doctor, booked your hotel and treatment? We can still provide a licensed and professional local guide to escort you to appointments, assist with interpretation, keep you company, aid your comfort and show you around during your recovery. Book a standard medical tour package below:

Need More Help or Ready to Book a Complete Medical Tourism Package?

Our professional and experienced medical travel agency comprised of local experts is ready to assist you. We can provide a total managed solution through a complete medical tour package or just help by filling in the missing services you need. Get in touch below:

We can help with:

Managing the entire process (Planning to Logistics)

Providing the missing pieces to your existing arrangements

Consultation on medical tourism products

Introduction of doctors, specialised hospitals and prices

Professional guides (escort and interpreter)

Private luxury transportation

Airport meet and greet and ground transfer services

Booking hotels, hospital appointments and treatments

100% Flexible Medical tours in Korea

Simply fill out our Medical Tour Enquiry Form , and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

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Best International Destinations for Plastic Surgery [2023]

The plastic surgery industry is booming at an unprecedented rate. Currently, the market size is valued at approx.  66 Billion(USD) . Realizing the potential revenue that can be earned from it, more countries are opening their doors to all sorts of affordable beauty procedures. Governments are investing in building excellent healthcare infrastructure, minimizing costs, and even subsiding to promote their country’s cosmetic tourism sector. So which country should you visit? To help you decide, we have prepared a list of the best medical tourism destinations for plastic surgery.

Table of Contents

The most popular procedures for cosmetic surgery abroad, why choose brazil, popular hospitals in mexico, price of common plastic surgery procedures in brazil, why choose mexico, price of common plastic surgery procedures in mexico, why choose costa rica, popular hospitals in costa rica, price of common plastic surgery procedures in costa rica, why choose panama, popular hospitals in panama, price of common plastic surgery procedures in panama, why choose india, popular hospitals in india, price of common plastic surgery procedures in india, why choose thailand, popular hospitals in thailand, price of common plastic surgery procedures in thailand, why choose south korea, price of common plastic surgery procedures in south korea, why choose turkey, popular hospitals in turkey, price of common plastic surgery procedures in turkey, why choose colombia, popular hospitals in colombia, price of common plastic surgery procedures in colombia, why choose spain, popular hospitals in spain, price of common plastic surgery procedures in spain.

• Cost saving 
• Luxury and personalized care 
• Specialized medical procedures 
• Vacationing at a foreign country 

Paying for Medical Procedures in Other Countries

Things to consider before you get plastic surgery abroad, frequently asked questions.

The popularity of cosmetic surgeries has grown exponentially over the last decade. It used to be the case that only women opted for such procedures. But circumstances have changed. Now, men in increasing numbers are looking for various cosmetic surgeries abroad. In fact,  men account for over 13% of the total cosmetic surgeries  performed worldwide.

For women, the popular surgeries are:

• Breast Augmentation
• Liposuction
• Hair Removal
• Eyelid Surgery
• Breast Lift
• Nose Surgery
• Breast Reduction

For men, the popular surgeries are:

• Gynecomastia
• Ear Surgery
• Face Fat Grafting

Best Medical Tourism Destination for Plastic Surgery

The countries listed below are a few of the most renowned destinations for reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries. We have also included a list of the popular hospital and the cost of common procedures available in the country.

Brazilians obsession with beauty has skyrocketed the popularity of Brazil’s plastic surgery industry. According to the  International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) , Brazil ranks 2nd in performing most plastic surgeries globally. Though Brazil offers all types of procedures, the most popular ones are Breast Augmentation and Liposuction. It is also home to the Brazilian Buttlift that is famous for its sculpted and natural-looking figure.

Brazil offers some of the best plastic surgeons found globally . You can find numerous board-certified surgeons with 15 to over 20 years of experience, each specializing in specific types of surgeries. Many private hospitals have modern equipment and facilities that adhere to JCI standards. And because of the favorable exchange rate, the cost of medical expenses is very cheap.

• Hospital Sao Rafael – Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Hospital Jayme da Fonte – Recife, Brazil
• Passy Clinic – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Clinica Athena – Curitiba, Brazil
• Leger Clinic – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Breast Augmentation – $3,500
• Liposuction – $3,000
• Face Lift – $5,500
• Breast Reduction – $4,000
• Nose Surgery – $3,00

Mexico is probably the obvious choice for most Americans looking for plastic surgeries. Hospitals are located just outside the southern border, and the prices are lower by at least 30% to 70%.

Although cosmetic surgeries are the most sought-after procedures, it isn’t uncommon to see patients flying across the border for simple dental checkups. Medical expenses in the US are notoriously high, due to which Americans consider Mexico as the go-to choice for all sorts of medical needs.

Certified hospitals dedicated to foreign patients are located close to the US borders, making it easy for Americans and Canadians to fly here in a very short time. Also, Mexico has many JCI accredited hospitals with board-certified surgeons trained in the US or other European countries. Regarding the price, surgeries like Liposuction will cost you around $3,000 in Mexico, in contrast to $5,000 being charged in the US. Complicated procedures like Heart Bypass will cost you over $100,000 in the US vs. around $27,000 in Mexico.

• Hospital CIMA Hermosillo – Sonora, Mexico
• Hospital Angeles – Tijuana, Mexico
• Hospital Star Medica – Chihuahua, Mexico
• Obesity Control Center – Tijuana, Mexico
• Face Lift – $4,250
• Breast Augmentation – $3,800
• Tummy Tuck – $6,500
• Liposuction – $3,00
• Rhinoplasty – $3,200

With an expat-friendly infrastructure and international standard medical system, Costa Rica is amongst the most beautiful biodiverse countries you can visit. The country is quickly gaining traction for its cosmetic treatments, specifically in Breast Augmentation and Liposuction.

Costa Rica may not be the cheapest destination in terms of medical expenses, but its healthcare system is one of the best in all Latin America. Here, you will find some of the best board-certified surgeons and excellent private hospitals for cosmetic procedures.

Costa Rica’s healthcare stands in 7th position in the  global healthcare index , and the quality is on par with the US medical system. Any surgeon operating in the country needs to be certified, which reduces the risk of medical malpractices. Hospitals also need to meet set criteria before they can offer their services. Also, the country is primarily an ecotourism destination, so you can easily combine your medical travel with beautiful eco-friendly vacations.

• Hospital CIMA – San José, Costa Rica
• Hospital Clínica Bíblica – San José, Costa Rica
• Facelift – $4,600
• Rhinoplasty – $3,500
• Breast Augmentation – $2,700
• Tummy Tuck – $3,900
• Male Breast Reduction – $2,00

If you prefer staying in city environments and don’t want any cultural shocks, Panama will be a great option for affordable plastic surgeries. The country is very well modernized, and you will find all the facilities and amenities you’d expect in a city environment.

Doctors in Panama are known to provide very personalized care. They will even give their personal contact and come to visit you in your hotel if needed. This level of personal care is not common in other destinations. Also, the prices for cosmetic surgeries are at least 50% less when compared to the US. For example, you can expect to pay $2,000 for a facelift, which, in the US, will cost you around $10,000.

The top hospitals in Panama usually have affiliations and are recognized by Internationally accredited organizations. The Panamanian government has also placed local accrediting organizations to certify hospitals for their services. If you prefer JCI accredited hospitals, then there are currently two available in the country. Panama is also a very safe country for tourists in terms of both personal safety and tourism.

• San Fernando Hospital – Vía España, Panamá, Panama
• Hospital Punta Pacifica – Panama City, Panama
• Face Lift – $2,000
• Breast Augmentation/Reduction – $3,100
• Liposuction – $2,500
• Buttocks Augmentation – $3,500
• Nose Surgery – $1,500
• Chemical Peel – $450

India was already a major player in the Asian medical tourism market. But with the government’s amendment on medical visa policies, it has become much easier to travel here for medical treatment. Now instead of 60 days, patients can stay up to 180days for medical treatment.

The costs of cosmetic surgeries are one of the cheapest in India. Popular surgeries like Breast Augmentation can go as low as $1,300, and Liposuction can cost you around $800.

Despite the medical costs being so cheap, healthcare quality is comparable to the US healthcare system. Doctors here are highly trained and uses advanced medical procedures to conduct their treatment. Local accrediting organizations are in place to certify surgeons and hospitals, but foreign patients can also choose from the 36 JCI accredited hospitals available in the country. India is also a safe tourism country with a large English-speaking population. And considering the cost of living and medical expenses, it is one of the cheapest countries in Asia.

• Fortis Memorial Research Institute(FMRI) – Delhi, India
• Global Hospital – Mumbai, India
• The Cosmetic Surgery Institute – Mumbai, India
• BLK Super Specialty Hospital – New Delhi, India
• Breast Augmentation – $1,300
• Liposuction – $770
• Thigh Lift – $1,300
• Strip Hair Transplant – 0.7 $ per Graft
• Tummy Tuck – $1,300
• Gynecomastia – $700
• Nose Surgery – $310

Thailand is not just a general tourism country. Its medical tourism industry has been booming rapidly over the past decade, especially in the cosmetic sector. Most plastic surgery institute in Thailand will offer a comprehensive range of procedures starting from simple to complex reshaping services. Gender resignment surgeries are the most notable ones in the country. The most commonly performed surgical procedures are Eyelid Surgery followed by nose surgery and Breast Augmentation.

Many of the best doctors in Thailand are certified by American and European medical boards. There are over 35 JCI accredited hospitals, all of which are private hospitals. Also, living in Thailand is very cheap compared to other tourism destinations. It is also common to find packages that include both sightseeing and medical treatment.

• Bumrungrad Hospital – Bangkok, Thailand
• Bangkok Hospital Pattaya – Bangkok, Thailand
• Yanhee Hospital – Bangkok, Thailand
• Breast augmentation – $2,600
• eyelid correction – $1,100
• Buttock implant – $4,000
• Cheek implant – $1,200
• Nose reshaping – $1,200
• Forehead lift – $1,400
• Hair transplant – $1,000
• Tummy Tuck – $3,000

South Korea

The K-pop culture in South Korea is a big influence on the country’s plastic surgery industry. With both men and women opting for various cosmetic surgeries, South Korea is quickly becoming the global plastic surgery capital. In fact, the country has the highest rate of plastic surgeries done per capita, with  13 cosmetic surgeries done per 1000 people . South Korea isn’t the cheapest destination for beauty and reconstructive procedures. Still, it is amongst the best in terms of offering medical facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, and international medical expertise. 

South Korea’s technological advancement is portrayed in their medical sector. The quality of their equipment and availability easily surpasses many Asian destinations. South Korea is also known to have dedicated facilities for international tourists. Getting bi-lingual staff and comprehensive services shouldn’t be an issue. Hotel accommodations, transportations, and recuperation packages are also widely available. You can possibly spend your post-operative care in a luxurious hotel, and the price will still be lower than in the US.

• Banobagi plastic surgery – Seoul, South Korea
• Sarang Plus Hospital – Seoul, South Korea
• Jk Plastic Surgery – Seoul, South Korea
• Eyelid Surgery – $2,000
• Breast augmentation – $7,000
• Facelift – $6,000
• Nose Surgery – $4,000
• Liposuction – $4,000
• Hair Transplant – $6,000
• Breast Surgeries – $8,000
• Laser Skin Therapy – $4,000

Turkey is considered a hub for affordable medical and cosmetic tourism in Europe. It is mostly sought-after by European and American nationalities. According to a 2019 report, Turkey’s medical tourism sector generated about $1.6billion in revenue.

In Turkey, procedures such as anti-aging treatments are very popular amongst patients over 40 years of age. Cosmetic procedures, in general, are around 50% to over 70% cheaper in most private hospitals. Also, the government has taken various initiatives to improve its medical tourism sector. Many medical facilities will offer packages that include shuttle services, hotel accommodation, and attractive travel packages. Also, you can easily find highly discounted airplane tickets.

The government is very strict in terms of its healthcare standards and who can offer medical services. To be eligible for service, a surgeon needs to undergo many years of extensive training and also need to become a member of the Turkish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. Medical centers are required to maintain strict quality implementation and medical standards set by the government. These strict regulations make Turkey a safer destination for plastic surgeries.

• Hisar Intercontinental Hospital – Istanbul, Turkey
• Derindere Hospital – Istanbul, Turkey
• Lokman Hekim Esnaf Hospital – Fethiye, Mugla, Turkey
• Face Lift – $3,000
• Breast Reduction – $3,200
• Nose Surgery – $2,500
• Mommy Makeover – $9,000

Medical tourism is not new to Colombia. The country has been promoting its cosmetic and other Healthcare services for several years. Being a South American country with solid security and great vacation spots, it continues to attract international patients from all over the world.

Colombia’s cosmetic surgeries are equally popular amongst locals as it is with foreigners. Surgical procedures most common in Colombia are Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, and Eyelid Surgery. For non-surgical procedures, the common ones are Botulinum Toxin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Hair Removal.

The healthcare system relating to plastic surgery is very well established. As of 2019, there are at least 1,100 plastic surgeons in the country. So finding surgeons for cosmetic procedures won’t be an issue. Plus, the prices are far less than the US and Canadian hospitals.

• Centro medico imbanaco – Cali, Colombia
• Hospital universitario de san vicente fundación – Medellín, Colombia
• Liposuction – $2,000
• Buttock Enlargement – $3,100
• Tummy Tuck – $4,200

Spain has a reputation for having one of the most efficient healthcare systems in Europe. Healthcare in Spain is continually improving, and as of 2021, the country is ranked 4th in the global medical tourism index. In Europe, Spain is particularly popular for its plastic surgeries. There are over 1,000 plastic surgeons available in various parts of the country. Prices are also very low from many other UK, European, and American countries. In addition, medical centers offer attractive discounts and packages combining surgery with holiday tours for medical tourists.

Being a mainstream tourism destination, Spain has all the necessary facilities in place to serve foreign tourists. To make tourism more accessible, the government allows US and Canadian citizens to travel to Spain without any visa and stay up to 3 months. Regarding the cost of cosmetic surgeries, you can save around 20% to 50% of the total cost.

• Vithas Xanit International Hospital – Malaga, Spain
• Grupo Hospitalario Quirónsalud – Madrid, Spain
• Centro médico quironsalud teknon – Barcelona, Spain
• Breast Augmentation – $3,600
• Face Lift – $5,400
• Liposuction – $1,800
• Nose Lift – $2,900

Benefits of getting plastic surgery abroad

Getting plastic surgeries through medical tourism can be considered a gateway for people willing to receive affordable and quality treatment that aren’t feasible in their home country. Depending on which country you are from, the benefits you receive will vary. Below, we have mentioned some of the benefits you would receive by choosing plastic surgery abroad. 

Cost saving

Cost-saving is the biggest reason why people travel abroad to get plastic surgeries. Patients can easily save from 20% to 80% of what they would normally pay back home. Also, insurance generally doesn’t cover plastic surgeries, and paying such high cash out-of-pocket isn’t financially viable. So, patients usually opt for foreign treatments. 

Luxury and personalized care

Foreign hospitals usually offer patients to be pampered during their stay at a fraction of the cost. Top medical centers offer hospital rooms that feel more like a hotel suite rather than a typical hospital cabin. By paying slightly extra, you can get one-on-one care with a private nurse, translator, higher staff ratio, and more. 

Specialized medical procedures

Certain countries specialize in specific areas of surgery. For instance, Brazilian surgeons are known for their Butt lifts and precise sculpting skills. Thailand is considered a primary destination for gender reassignment surgeries, and Mexico is known for providing a wide range of plastic surgeries at an affordable cost while complying with international standards. 

Vacationing at a foreign country

Patients take advantage of their stay in a foreign country by traveling to various local tourism destinations. Often patients will schedule a vacation before or after their procedure. Purchasing vacation plans from a tourism company will be ideal if you intend to stay for several days.  Note : although it seems logical to spend the recovery in an island resort, it is important that you do not risk your recovery. So, plan wisely. 

Payment procedures will vary between countries. Some may accept credit cards and bank checks, while others may require you to pay in cash. So before you make your travel plan, talk to the hospital about their payment procedures. Ask them what payment methods they accept and exactly what amount of money you have to pay for your treatment. Also, you may have to stay in the country for a month or longer, depending on your recovery. So consider the cost of travel and accommodation accordingly.

Millions of people are getting cosmetic surgeries done and have seen amazing results, but there are scenarios of medical misconduct in whichever country you visit. You need to make sure you are getting treated by professional surgeons and from a properly accredited hospital. So, before you start planning your vacation, here are some important things you need to consider.

• The surgeon needs to be board-certified. They can ensure that all the risk minimization steps are taken into consideration.
• Are you physically fit for the surgery? Cosmetic surgeries are not for everyone. For example, surgeries like tummy tuck require the patient to be in a healthy condition. If you have too much fat in your body, you cannot get the surgery.
• Know what you need to pay. Consult with the surgeon and talk in detail about the total cost of the procedure.
• Ask the surgeon about his previous work. See the before and after photos of patients that the surgeon has operated on.
• The surgeon needs to speak English fluently.

Can I trust a plastic surgeon abroad?

You can trust a board-certified surgeon. Go to the ISAPS website to find certified surgeons. Practitioners associated with them are put through rigorous training as per international standards.

How to know the cosmetic surgery clinic abroad is of the highest standards?

The clinic you choose needs to have accreditation from a reputed international organization. There are many accrediting bodies, but the ideal one would be Joint Commission International (JCI). JCI is considered a gold standard for accrediting medical centers globally. Clinics accredited by such organizations mean that they are capable of maintaining and serving international-level medical care.

Is cosmetic surgery abroad safe?

As long as the surgeon is board-certified and the hospital has international accreditation, cosmetic surgery abroad is safe. We’d recommend avoiding public hospitals regardless of which country you visit. That’s because public hospitals usually don’t offer the level of care you will receive in a private hospital.

Why go abroad for cosmetic surgery?

Cosmetic surgeries, in general, are very expensive, and insurance companies usually won’t cover these procedures. You will have to pay out-of-the-pocket for it. So by getting these procedures done abroad can save you a lot of money.

There is no right or wrong in deciding which is the best place to go for plastic surgery. All countries mentioned above have great hospitals and medical infrastructure to serve foreign patients. Which country to choose depends entirely on your preference and how you want to spend your medical vacation. In short, if you have taken all the safety precautions, you should have a pleasurable during your stay in the country.

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You’ll Come Back Looking Like a Whole New Person

Inside seoul’s booming plastic surgery tourism industry..

This piece originally appeared in The Unpublishable , a newsletter critiquing the beauty industry. 

Even before you grab your bags from the carousels at Seoul’s Incheon International Airport, you can fit your face into a spectral imaging machine to get your skin qualitatively analyzed for its health relative to your age. The A.I.-powered analysis is a free service courtesy of the Korea Tourism Organization’s Medical Tourism Support Center. Staffers there to greet incoming travelers can usually speak at least some English, Chinese, Japanese, and Russian. Kiosks and clerks can help you find a facility for acupuncture or joint therapy. But most travelers are looking for skin treatments or cosmetic procedures—and they will happily pair you with their preferred plastic surgery clinics.

Korea boasts the most sophisticated medical aesthetic market in the world. It is the destination if you’re looking to get your asshole bleached, armpits colorized, and/or your skull reshaped over the weekend, in time for a return to work on Monday. Seoul boasts more cosmetic surgeons per capita than anywhere else on the planet—twice as many surgeons as the U.S., and 150 percent more surgeons than Brazil, the distant runner‑up. Because of its exceptionally high density of doctors, the Gangnam neighborhood has come to be known as “Plastic Surgery Street” or the “Improvement Quarter.” The glutted market means that the practitioners there are driven by competition to attempt treatments and techniques yet to be allowed in the States.

The imperative of upgrading the physical body is woven not just into domestic society but into the country’s export industries and global positioning. How did Seoul become the place where influencers flock to load up on laser treatments, injectables, and other therapies before blasting out their experiences to the masses? It’s part of a sophisticated national strategy.

Following a financial crisis in 1997, the regulatory climate in South Korea made it more lucrative for doctors if they specialized in surgical practices and diagnostic testing versus, for example, family practices. Cosmetic surgery offers both the need to “diagnose” patients with a “problem,” as well as the surgical solution to “fix” it. So, entrepreneurial medical professionals began to apply a scientific glaze to things like 3D imaging to help optimize the face or using big data to aggregate the ideal shapes and ratios for bodies. After all, if there is an ideal that can be “proven” by “science,” surgery or other treatments become easier to sell.

The state even supported the logic of bodily change as good citizenship by providing temporary tax breaks that could go toward cosmetic surgery. (Today, treatment for male-pattern baldness is covered by the country’s national health insurance.) The professional and personal pressures of their nation’s beauty culture came down particularly hard on South Korean women. Their prospective employers or loved ones would ask why they wouldn’t fix their eyelids, or get a blemish removed, when it was medically possible? Supply drove demand.

The evolution of jawline surgery in Korea is a notable example. As I detailed in my book Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture From the K-Beauty Capital :

Doctors began popularizing jawline surgery—a procedure that was previously only for reconstructive purposes—as a commercialized cosmetic procedure in the early aughts. Also called V‑line surgery, the procedure is aimed at reshaping the bottom half of the face and involves shaving and occasionally cutting, disassembling, and rearranging both lower and upper jaws (maxilla and mandible bones) to achieve a delicate-looking jaw. When you change the size and shape of the jaw, you transform the entire face. Jawline surgery stands out from eyelid surgery or rhinoplasty because it was normalized and popularized in Korea and by Korean doctors. There’s some local pride in that: in 2014, a clinic exhibited more than two thousand jaw fragments in two giant glass vessels, each bone labeled with the name of the patient from whom it was carved. Despite its popularity in Korea for more than a decade, it is still considered “foreign” by U.S. and European doctors. The medical tourism industry is predicated on problematizing the way we look. The V-line jaw is a made-up standard where supply first created demand. “It came about just about fifteen years ago and now it’s accepted as the thing to be,” Korean feminism writer James Turnbull told me, illustrating how profit-driven industries can make standards stick.

But in 2007, South Korea found itself in a jam: too many doctors, not enough patients. The country is small enough to fit into the space between L.A. and San Francisco, and the domestic market was saturated with spas, dermatology clinics, and plastic surgery centers. Enter the Korea Tourism Organization, and other export-minded agencies, which established medical tourism as one of its focus areas for growth—one of the country’s “strategic products.”

Offering tax breaks, tourist packages (transportation, hotels, and meals included) for medical tourists, and touting Korea’s advancements and competitive pricing (treatments are a fraction of what they cost in the U.S.), the effort transformed Gangnam’s Improvement Quarter into a thriving attraction for aesthetic upgrades. In 2009 about 60,000 foreigners visited Korea for medical procedures. By 2019, the number of medical tourists reached nearly half a million—an eightfold increase in a decade, after climbing steadily each year, according to numbers from the Korea Health Industry Development Institute.

Government agencies—national and municipal—offered some “tourist info hub”–type services to help find registered clinics for those interested in getting work done. But the system of support for medical tourism is a network of private brokers, like Eunogo, that partner with the hospitals and doctors to help foreigners choose services from a suite of options and guide patients through the entire process. “Korean surgeons have great skill and quality; all we needed [was] a good system,” Eunogo’s Joy Kang told me. “It was interesting to build something to connect foreign demand with quality doctors.”

They don’t just help foreign patients match with clinics. The broker agencies offer concierge services like translation (different clinics specialize in different dominant languages) or even staffing a caregiver to be with you throughout the entire medical process, including being the first person you see when you come out from anesthesia. This is usually all paid for by the hospitals, which rely on a constant influx of patients. As the saying goes, if you’re not paying for the product, you are the product.

By Elise Hu

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For many of today’s hottest procedures, the ones you probably have seen on TikTok, no recovery time is needed. And hold on to your receipt! A cosmetic surgery tax refund comes with all cosmetic services performed on non-Korean passport holders, making the transaction an even better bargain.

If surgery renders a tourist’s face unrecognizable from their passport photo, there’s a service for that too. The Korea Tourism Organization issues a “plastic-surgery certificate” that immigration officials accept as proof of identity, along with the original passport, in order for the tourist to leave the country. For many people, international travel comes with the hope of a transformative experience. But few countries can rival Korea’s ability to guarantee that you will be a changed person by the time you leave—if only on a purely superficial level.

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The Medical Tourism Boom: Korean Plastic Surgery and Its Global Appeal

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Explore the rise of medical tourism and Korean plastic surgery, driven by cultural influences, advanced technology, competitive pricing, and K-pop.

In recent years, the level of interest in plastic surgery has grown substantially in South Korea. This surge can be attributed to the country’s booming entertainment industry, specifically the global popularity of K-pop and Korean dramas that have set beauty standards known worldwide. Consequently, South Korea has become an attractive destination for medical tourism as individuals come from around the world searching for ways to enhance their appearance. Given its numerous plastic surgery clinics, Seoul, South Korea’s capital, is now known as the ‘beauty belt.

South Korea has a long history of plastic surgery, dating back to the early 1960s. Today, the country is home to some of the world’s most respected plastic surgeons, and it is a leader in the development of new plastic surgery techniques.

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The Rise of South Korea as a Plastic Surgery Hub

Korea has established itself as the leading destination for medical aesthetics , providing the latest cutting-edge treatments. Korea offers a range of successful outcomes, from subtle enhancements such as underarm rejuvenation to more transformative procedures that can redefine facial features. With quick and easy options, you can rely on Korea to give you a brand-new look just in time for Monday’s refreshing start.

Seoul has gained its reputation as the cosmetic surgery capital of the world, boasting twice the number of surgeons per person than the US and surpassing Brazil by 150%. The Gangnam district, known as “Plastic Surgery Street” or “Improvement Quarter,” is a clinic hotspot. However, due to high competition in this densely saturated market, practitioners have pushed treatment boundaries with unapproved techniques yet to be tested in the United States.

Cultural Influence of Korean Plastic Surgery on Beauty Standards

In South Korea, adhering to certain beauty standards has become integral to cultural identity. It’s not just about meeting societal expectations but also a means of achieving success in life ranging from careers to relationships. The Korean cosmetics industry caters to this trend by offering countless products and procedures that promise physical perfection. This quest for outward appearance has also contributed significantly to the growth of plastic surgery, resulting in a boom in the cosmetic surgery industry.

Advanced Technology and Expertise

South Korean plastic surgeons are famous for their exceptional surgical skills and use of advanced technology, which allows them to provide natural-looking outcomes. The medical facilities in the country are first-rate, ensuring high levels of comfort and care for patients. Moreover, many Korean plastic surgeons possess excellent communication abilities that help them grasp their patients’ requirements precisely. This combination of technical expertise, creativity, and compassion has made South Korean plastic surgery highly popular worldwide.

Competitive Pricing and the Medical Tourism Industry

The competitive pricing in South Korea is a significant driving force behind its burgeoning medical tourism sector. Patients from all over the world visit for high-quality treatments at affordable prices, especially plastic surgery. Patients could significantly cut costs compared to countries like the United States, Australia, and Europe if they choose South Korea as their treatment destination. The government promotes this potential benefit actively, indicating that it recognizes the advantages of medical tourism. A full facelift in the United States can cost upwards of $20,000, but in South Korea, the same procedure can be done for as little as $5,000.

Popular Korean Plastic Surgery Procedures Among Medical Tourists

South Korea is popular for its wide array of plastic surgery procedures, which include facial contouring, eye­lid surgery, rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and liposuction. Patients from diverse cultural backgrounds are particularly interested in the country’s expertise in facial procedures to attain a refined and youthful look. Additionally, South Korea offers excellent body contouring procedures that ensure patients achieve a balanced and proportionate figure.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by JW Plastic Surgery Korea (@jwplasticsurgerykorea)

The Impact of South Korean Pop Culture

The explosive growth of South Korean pop culture worldwide is a major driver behind the rise in Korean plastic surgery global demand. The surge in popularity of K-pop idols and South Korean actors has sparked a fascination with Korea’s beauty standards and fueled interest in emulating these stars’ flawless, youthful appearances. As fans continue to connect with Korean pop culture, more people gravitate towards plastic surgery hotspots like South Korea to improve their appearances.

Navigating the Challenges of Medical Tourism

Travelers who consider plastic surgery in South Korea will initially find the idea tempting, but must prioritize safety over convenience. Language barriers, differences in medical practices and possible complications can deter one from such a decision. Adequate research to find qualified surgeons and reliable clinics is crucial for reducing the associated risks and seeking assistance or advice from trusted medical tourism agencies.

The Future of Korean Plastic Surgery

South Korea’s thriving plastic surgery industry has made the country an attractive destination for medical tourists seeking cosmetic procedures. Cutting edge­ technology, skilled surgeons, competitive pricing, and cultural influences have all contributed to its global appeal. While patient safety and ethical practices are crucial for Korean plastic surgery’s continued success and allure worldwide. If you are considering plastic surgery, South Korea is a great option. The quality of care is excellent, the prices are affordable, and the aftercare is top-notch. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today!

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Anyaa is a versatile writer with an insatiable wanderlust and a deep love for all things Korea. Her passion for exploration and storytelling shines through in her diverse articles covering every aspect of Korean travel. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the tranquil beauty of Jeju Island, her articles serve as a virtual passport for readers, providing them with insider tips, detailed itineraries, and practical advice to ensure an unforgettable journey through Korea.

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