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Liposuction in Gangnam and Sinsa

Removal of stubborn fat from body areas through small cannulas, with a compression garment worn for several weeks.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 지방흡입
  • Procedure time: 1 to 4 hours depending on areas
  • Anesthesia: IV sedation or general anesthesia
  • Sessions: 1
  • Downtime: 3 to 7 days off work; compression garment 4 to 6 weeks
  • Results: Shape visible at 1 month; final at 3 to 6 months
  • Lasts: Removed fat cells don't return; remaining fat can grow with weight gain
  • Typical price: ₩2,000,000–₩3,500,000 (per area (for example, upper arms), before VAT)

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction (지방흡입) removes fat cells from areas that resist diet and exercise, such as the abdomen, flanks, arms, thighs and back. Gangnam has many clinics that do only body contouring.

It is not a weight-loss method. Most patients remove a few litres of fat and see a change in shape more than on the scale.

How it works

The area is filled with tumescent fluid (saline with dilute lidocaine and adrenaline) to reduce bleeding and pain. The surgeon then removes fat through 3 to 5 mm incisions using cannulas, often assisted by ultrasound (VASER), power-assisted (PAL) or water-jet (Body-jet) systems. Large-volume cases are best done in a facility with an anesthesiologist present.

Who it suits

  • Local fat pockets at a stable weight
  • Patients close to their target weight
  • Good skin elasticity

Who should skip it or wait

  • Obesity as the main concern
  • Loose, hanging skin (may need a tuck)
  • Uncontrolled diabetes or clotting problems
  • Smokers unwilling to stop

Side effects and risks

  • Contour irregularities or dents
  • Seroma
  • Prolonged swelling or numbness
  • Blood clots (DVT/PE)
  • Rare: fat embolism or lidocaine toxicity in large-volume cases

Aftercare

  • Wear the compression garment day and night as instructed
  • Walk several times a day from day 1
  • Attend post-op lymphatic or device care sessions if offered
  • Keep weight stable after surgery

Planning around your trip

Plan 5 to 7 days in Seoul for a check and stitch removal; on long flights wear the garment and compression socks.

Plastic Surgery clinics near Apgujeong

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

Liposuction price in Apgujeong

₩2,000,000–₩3,500,000
per area (for example, upper arms), before VAT

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Korea Experience, Korea Plastic Surgery Cost Guide 2026. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Full Liposuction price breakdown →

Liposuction questions

How much fat can be removed safely?

Many surgeons follow a limit of about 5 litres of total aspirate per session in an outpatient setting. Larger volumes need overnight monitoring.

Is VASER better than regular liposuction?

VASER uses ultrasound to loosen fat, which can help in fibrous areas like the back or in revision. Results depend more on the surgeon than the device.

How long must I wear the compression garment?

Usually 4 to 6 weeks, day and night for the first 2 to 3 weeks.

Will the fat come back with Liposuction?

Removed fat cells are gone, but the remaining cells can grow if you gain weight, sometimes in untreated areas.

Does liposuction tighten skin?

Only slightly. Loose skin may need a tuck or energy device treatment.

What does a price 'per area' mean?

Clinics define areas differently: the abdomen may or may not include flanks. Ask for a list of included zones.

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.