Plastic Surgery in Korea: Top 5 Most Consulted Procedures for the New Year

When it comes to plastic surgery in Korea, there's a reason why Seoul has become the world's cosmetic surgery capital. With one in three women aged 19-29 having undergone at least one cosmetic procedure, South Korea leads global plastic surgery rates per capita. But it's not just locals seeking these transformative procedures—international patients account for a significant portion of Korea's booming medical tourism industry, valued at approximately $2.47 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $12.14 billion by 2034.

As we enter the new year, many people are considering aesthetic improvements to boost their confidence and start fresh. If you're researching plastic surgery in Korea, you're already on the right track. Korean plastic surgeons are internationally renowned for their precision, artistic approach, and cutting-edge techniques that prioritize natural-looking results.

Let's explore the top 5 most consulted plastic surgery procedures in Korea and what makes each one uniquely suited to Korean medical expertise.

Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, consistently ranks as one of the most requested procedures for plastic surgery in Korea. Korean rhinoplasty has evolved into a specialized art form, with surgeons developing techniques specifically designed to create balanced, harmonious facial proportions.

Unlike Western approaches that often aim for dramatic changes, Korean rhinoplasty focuses on subtle enhancements that complement your existing facial features. Surgeons consider your entire facial structure, including your forehead, chin, and cheekbones, to create a nose that looks naturally yours.

Popular techniques include:

• Bridge augmentation using silicone implants or autologous cartilage
• Tip refinement with septal or ear cartilage grafts
• Alar base reduction for nostril reshaping
• Asian rhinoplasty specializing in low nasal bridges and thick skin

One of the most attractive aspects of getting rhinoplasty in Korea is the exceptional value. Based on current 2024-2025 pricing data:

• Standard Rhinoplasty: $3,500 - $7,000 USD
• Tip Rhinoplasty: $1,150 - $3,340 USD
• Revision Rhinoplasty: $2,700 - $6,770 USD
• Implant-Free (Autologous Cartilage): $2,000 - $15,000 USD (depending on complexity)

These prices typically include consultation, surgery, anesthesia, post-operative care, and initial follow-up visits, providing excellent value for international patients.

Most patients experience significant swelling reduction within 2 weeks, with final results visible after 6-12 months. Korean surgeons excel at minimizing scarring through advanced suturing techniques and strategic incision placement.

Eye surgery, particularly double eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), is the most performed cosmetic procedure in South Korea, with approximately 200,000 double eyelid procedures conducted annually. This procedure creates a natural-looking crease in the upper eyelid, making eyes appear larger and more defined.

If you're considering eye surgery in Korea, you can explore the most popular procedures here.

Double Eyelid Surgery

• Non-incision method (suture technique): Minimal downtime, ideal for younger patients with thin skin
• Partial incision method: Combines suture with small incisions for better longevity
• Full incision method: Best for older patients or those with excess skin

Epicanthoplasty: This procedure reduces the Mongolian fold (inner corner of the eye), creating a wider, more open appearance. It's often combined with double eyelid surgery for comprehensive eye enhancement.

Lower Blepharoplasty and Fat Repositioning: Korean surgeons pioneered fat repositioning techniques that address under-eye bags without removing fat, maintaining a youthful, natural appearance while eliminating puffiness.

Eye surgery in Korea offers remarkable value, with pricing significantly lower than Western countries while maintaining superior quality:

• Double Eyelid Surgery (Non-incision): $1,300 - $2,500 USD
• Double Eyelid Surgery (Incision Method): $2,000 - $4,000 USD
• Upper Blepharoplasty: $1,900 - $3,700 USD
• Lower Blepharoplasty: $1,790 - $3,500 USD
• Epicanthoplasty: $2,500 - $3,000 USD
• Ptosis Correction: $2,000 - $4,500 USD

Most packages include consultation, surgery, medications, and follow-up appointments. Recovery for non-incision methods is typically 3-7 days, while incision methods require 7-14 days before returning to normal activities.

Korean plastic surgeons perform eye surgeries daily, giving them unparalleled experience with diverse eye shapes and anatomies. This expertise translates to more predictable results and lower complication rates. Approximately 200,000 double eyelid surgeries are performed annually in Korea, creating an unmatched depth of surgical experience.

As the global population ages, face lifting procedures have become increasingly sophisticated in Korea. Korean plastic surgery clinics offer multiple facelift options tailored to different age groups and concerns, from minimally invasive procedures for patients in their 30s to comprehensive lifts for mature patients.

SMAS Facelift: The gold standard in face lifting, this technique addresses the deeper facial tissue layers for long-lasting, natural results. Korean surgeons often combine SMAS techniques with fat grafting to restore youthful volume.

Mini Facelift: Perfect for patients experiencing early signs of aging, this less invasive option targets the lower face and jawline with smaller incisions and shorter recovery times.

Thread Lifting: Korea leads the world in thread lift technology, offering various thread types (PDO, PLLA, PCL) for non-surgical face lifting. While results are temporary (12-18 months), the minimal downtime makes this popular among younger patients and those seeking gradual improvements.

Endoscopic Forehead Lift: Using tiny incisions hidden in the hairline, this technique smooths forehead wrinkles and lifts sagging brows without visible scarring.

Face lifting procedures in Korea provide exceptional value with comprehensive care packages:

• Mini Facelift: $3,500 - $7,800 USD
• Mid Facelift: $4,500 - $6,500 USD
• Full Facelift (SMAS Technique): $6,000 - $14,000 USD
• Deep Plane Facelift: $8,000 - $18,000 USD
• Thread Lift (Non-surgical): $700 - $3,500 USD
• Endoscopic Facelift: $5,000 - $8,000 USD
• Neck Lift (standalone): $3,500 - $7,000 USD

Most packages include pre-operative consultation, 3D imaging, anesthesia, surgery, hospital stay (if required), medications, and follow-up care. Many patients combine facelift procedures with neck lifts or eyelid surgery for comprehensive rejuvenation, often receiving package discounts of 10-15%.

Surgical facelifts typically require 2-3 weeks for social recovery, with final results developing over 3-6 months as swelling subsides. Korean surgeons emphasize preserving facial expression and avoiding the "overdone" appearance common with older facelift techniques.

Facial contouring surgery represents one of Korea's most significant contributions to plastic surgery. These procedures reshape the underlying bone structure to create more balanced, aesthetically pleasing facial proportions.

V-Line Surgery: This signature Korean procedure combines jaw reduction with chin surgery to create the coveted V-shaped face. Surgeons carefully reshape the mandible angle and chin to achieve a softer, more feminine facial contour.

Zygoma Reduction (Cheekbone Surgery): Reduces prominent cheekbones through intraoral incisions, creating a slimmer facial appearance with no visible scars. Korean surgeons use 3D CT imaging to precisely plan bone cuts and ensure symmetrical results.

Genioplasty (Chin Surgery): Advances, reduces, or augments the chin to achieve ideal facial proportions. This can be performed as a sliding genioplasty (repositioning your own bone) or with implants.

Square Jaw Reduction: Slims a wide or squared jawline by carefully contouring the mandible angle. This procedure is often combined with masseter muscle reduction for comprehensive jaw slimming.

Facial contouring represents one of Korea's signature procedures, with competitive pricing that reflects the country's expertise:

• V-Line Surgery (Complete): $6,000 - $15,000 USD
• Square Jaw Reduction: $5,000 - $12,000 USD
• Zygoma Reduction (Cheekbone Surgery): $5,000 - $10,000 USD
• Genioplasty (Chin Surgery): $4,000 - $8,000 USD
• 3-Set Facial Contouring (Jaw + Cheekbone + Chin): $12,000 - $25,000 USD
• Facial Asymmetry Correction: $8,000 - $15,000 USD

These comprehensive packages typically include 3D CT imaging, consultation, general anesthesia, 1-2 nights hospital stay, post-operative care, medications, and multiple follow-up visits. The extensive use of 3D imaging technology in Korea allows for precise surgical planning and symmetrical results.

Facial contouring requires exceptional skill, as surgeons work near vital nerves and blood vessels. Korea's extensive experience with these procedures (performing thousands annually) has led to refined techniques that minimize complications and optimize healing. Most patients see preliminary results within 3 months, with final outcomes visible at 6-12 months post-surgery.

Body contouring surgery in Korea has evolved beyond traditional liposuction to include comprehensive body transformation procedures. Korean plastic surgeons approach body contouring holistically, often combining multiple techniques in a single surgery for harmonious results.

Advanced Liposuction:

• VASER liposuction: Uses ultrasound to selectively target fat while preserving surrounding tissues
• Power-assisted liposuction (PAL): Allows more precise fat removal with less trauma
• 360-degree liposuction: Treats the entire circumference of targeted areas for seamless results

Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL): Fat transfer to the buttocks creates natural volume and lift. Korean surgeons excel at combining this with abdominal liposuction for dramatic before-and-after transformations.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles, ideal after pregnancy or significant weight loss. Korean surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize scarring and create natural-looking belly buttons.

Arm Lift and Thigh Lift: Addresses loose skin and stubborn fat in the upper arms and thighs through strategic incision placement that minimizes visible scarring.

Body Lifting After Massive Weight Loss: Comprehensive procedures that address multiple areas simultaneously, helping patients who've lost significant weight achieve their final body goals.

Body contouring procedures in Korea offer world-class results at highly competitive prices:

Liposuction Procedures:

• Single Area Liposuction: $2,000 - $4,000 USD
• Multiple Area Liposuction: $3,000 - $8,000 USD
• 360-Degree Liposuction (Full Torso): $5,000 - $10,000 USD
• VASER/Laser-Assisted Liposuction: $3,500 - $9,000 USD
• Full Body Liposuction: $12,000 - $25,000 USD

Tummy Tuck Procedures:

• Mini Tummy Tuck: $4,000 - $8,000 USD
• Full Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): $6,000 - $12,000 USD
• Extended Tummy Tuck: $8,000 - $15,000 USD
• Circumferential Body Lift: $10,000 - $18,000 USD
• Lipoabdominoplasty (Combined): $8,000 - $15,000 USD

Additional Body Contouring:

• Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL): $5,000 - $10,000 USD
• Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): $3,000 - $6,000 USD
• Thigh Lift: $4,000 - $8,000 USD

Korean body contouring packages typically include consultation, pre-operative tests, surgery, anesthesia, hospital stay (if needed), compression garments, medications, and follow-up care, offering comprehensive value for international patients seeking advanced techniques like VASER and laser-assisted methods.

Body contouring recovery varies by procedure extent. Liposuction alone may require 1-2 weeks off work, while comprehensive procedures need 3-4 weeks. Korean clinics provide detailed recovery protocols and often include post-operative care such as lymphatic massage and LED therapy in their packages to optimize healing and results.

1. World-Class Expertise: Korean plastic surgeons undergo rigorous training and often specialize in specific procedures, performing them hundreds or thousands of times. This repetition builds exceptional skill and pattern recognition for optimal results.
2. Advanced Technology: Korea invests heavily in medical technology, from 3D imaging systems that simulate post-surgery results to innovative laser devices that minimize downtime and scarring.
3. Competitive Pricing: Korea offers exceptional value for plastic surgery procedures, with comprehensive packages that typically include consultation, surgery, anesthesia, medications, hospital stays, and follow-up visits. This all-inclusive approach provides international patients with transparent pricing and eliminates unexpected costs, making Korea a top destination for medical tourism.
4. Comprehensive Medical Tourism Infrastructure: Korean medical tourism is well-established, with agencies like Jivaka providing end-to-end support including hospital selection, interpreter services, accommodation assistance, and post-operative care coordination.
5. Cultural Emphasis on Aesthetics: Korea's acceptance and normalization of plastic surgery means less stigma, more open discussions about procedures, and a supportive environment for patients undergoing transformation.

For most major procedures, plan for a 2-3 week stay in Korea. This allows for pre-operative consultations, the procedure itself, initial recovery monitoring, and follow-up appointments before international travel.

1. Research and Virtual Consultation: Start with online consultations to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and receive preliminary recommendations. This step is crucial for international patients.
2. Hospital and Surgeon Selection: Choose board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in your desired procedure. Review before-and-after photos of patients with similar features to yours.
3. Pre-Operative Preparation: Complete required medical tests, adjust medications as needed, and follow pre-surgery dietary and lifestyle guidelines.
4. Post-Operative Care: Follow your surgeon's recovery protocol meticulously. Many Korean clinics offer post-operative treatments like lymphatic massage and LED therapy to optimize healing.
5. Long-Term Follow-Up: Establish plans for follow-up care once you return home, including when to contact your Korean surgeon with questions or concerns.

While Korea's plastic surgery reputation is excellent, patient safety should always be your priority:

• Verify your surgeon is board-certified by the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (KSPRS)
• Ensure the clinic is accredited by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare
• Request detailed information about anesthesia providers and surgical facility standards
• Understand all risks, potential complications, and revision policies
• Never choose a clinic based solely on price; extremely low prices may indicate compromised safety standards

The new year represents fresh beginnings and personal renewal. If you've been considering plastic surgery in Korea, there's no better time to take the first step toward the confidence and appearance you've always desired.

Whether you're interested in rhinoplasty to refine your profile, eye surgery to open and brighten your gaze, face lifting to turn back the clock, facial contouring to achieve your ideal facial shape, or body contouring to complete your transformation, Korean plastic surgery offers world-class results backed by decades of innovation and expertise.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

At Jivaka, we specialize in connecting international patients with Korea's top plastic surgeons and medical facilities. Our comprehensive medical tourism services eliminate the stress and uncertainty of planning plastic surgery abroad.

Book your free online consultation today to discuss your goals, receive personalized procedure recommendations, and get accurate pricing for your desired treatments. Our multilingual team will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to post-operative care, ensuring a smooth, successful plastic surgery experience in Korea.

Your transformation starts with a single conversation. Let's make this new year truly transformative—contact Jivaka now and discover why thousands of international patients trust us with their plastic surgery journey in Korea.

Disclaimer: Individual results may vary. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which procedures are appropriate for your individual needs and health status.