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Specialty · 성형외과

Plastic Surgery Clinics in Apgujeong and Sinsa

Eyelid, nose, jaw and body surgery in the Sinsa and Apgujeong clinic cluster, with recovery days and practical notes for patients flying in.

At a glance
  • Korean: 성형외과
  • Registered clinics nearby: 371 in Sinsa, Apgujeong, Cheongdam and Nonhyeon (HIRA, Sep 2026)
  • Treatments on this site: 30
  • Payment: Card or cash; foreigners without NHIS pay the full price

성형외과 in Korea covers cosmetic surgery (eyelids, nose, facial bone contouring, breast and body contouring) and reconstructive work. The strip of Apgujeong-ro and Gangnam-daero between Apgujeong Station and Sinsa Station has one of the highest densities of plastic surgery clinics in the country, many of them in multi-floor buildings with their own operating rooms and recovery wards.

Most clinics ask for photos in advance for an online consultation, then an in-person consultation on arrival with the surgeon, followed by pre-op blood tests and often a chest X-ray and ECG for general anesthesia. Surgery is usually scheduled 1 to 3 days after the consultation. Stitches for eyelid and nose surgery come out after 5 to 7 days, so most foreign patients stay 7 to 14 days; jaw surgery needs longer.

Cosmetic surgery is non-covered (비급여) by NHIS, so residents and visitors pay the same fee. Some functional operations, such as ptosis correction that affects vision or septoplasty for breathing, can be partly covered for insured patients when medical criteria are met. Cosmetic fees include 10% VAT, and the VAT refund scheme for foreign patients ended at the end of 2025.

What to expect

  • Send front and side photos for a remote consultation. Final prices are confirmed only after the surgeon examines you in person.
  • Bring your passport and a list of current medicines. Stop aspirin, fish oil and similar supplements as directed, usually 1 to 2 weeks before surgery.
  • A deposit is common to hold a surgery date, and the balance is paid on the day. Card and bank transfer are both used.
  • Clinics that treat many foreign patients have interpreters, and Korean law requires a signed consent form explaining the procedure and its risks.
  • Plan follow-up visits for stitch removal and swelling checks, usually on day 5 to 7 and again around day 10 to 14.

Tips for international patients

  • Book your return flight at least 7 days after eyelid surgery and 10 to 14 days after rhinoplasty, and check with the clinic before flying.
  • Ask who performs the operation and who gives anesthesia. You can request that the consulting surgeon be the operating surgeon.
  • Ask for your medical records and implant details in English before you leave, in case you need care at home.
  • Stay within a short taxi ride of the clinic so you can come back easily for checks.

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Plastic Surgery clinics near Apgujeong

Plastic Surgery in Korea: questions

How soon after arriving can I have surgery?

Many clinics operate 1 to 2 days after the in-person consultation, once blood test results are back. For jaw or breast surgery, some clinics prefer a longer gap.

When can I fly home after double eyelid surgery?

Most patients fly after stitch removal on day 5 to 7. Swelling is still visible then, and it usually takes 1 to 3 months to settle.

Is general anesthesia used for rhinoplasty in Korea?

Usually general anesthesia or deep IV sedation. Ask whether an anesthesiologist will be present for the whole operation.

Does NHIS cover ptosis surgery?

For insured residents, ptosis correction can be covered when the drooping lid blocks vision and meets the medical criteria. Cosmetic eyelid surgery is not covered.

Can I combine eyes and nose in one operation?

Many clinics do eyes and nose together. It shortens the total recovery period but increases operating time, so the surgeon will check your health and tests first.

What happens if I need a revision after I go home?

Clinics differ. Ask before surgery whether revisions within a set period are free or discounted, and whether you would pay for travel and anesthesia again.

Is the surgery price the final bill?

Quotes usually include the operation and anesthesia. Pre-op tests, medicines, aftercare treatments and compression garments may be extra, so ask for an itemized estimate.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.