Top 5 Korean Facial Plastic Surgeries & Cost Guide

South Korea has earned its reputation as a global hub for precision, innovation, and natural-looking results in plastic surgery. Korean beauty standards often emphasise delicate, harmonious features and a youthful, V-line face shape, which has driven the development of highly specialised surgical techniques.

If you’re considering enhancing your appearance, understanding the most popular procedures is the perfect starting point. This guide explores the top 5 Korean facial plastic surgeries, detailing what they entail, who they are suitable for, and providing a crucial cost guide to help you plan your journey.

1. Double Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

The most iconic Korean plastic surgery, this procedure creates or defines a crease in the upper eyelid, making the eyes appear larger, brighter, and more defined.

• What it does: Creates a supratarsal fold (the “double eyelid”) by removing excess skin and fat and connecting the eyelid skin to the underlying tissue.
• Ideal for: Individuals with monolids (single eyelids) or uneven, hooded eyelids who desire a more prominent eyelid crease.
• Recovery: 1-2 weeks for initial swelling to subside.
• Average Cost in Korea: ₩1,500,000 – ₩3,500,000 KRW (approx. $1,100 – $2,600 USD).

2. Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

Korean rhinoplasty focuses on creating a delicate, straight, and refined nose with a defined tip. It often involves building up the bridge for more projection—a technique known as augmentation rhinoplasty.

• What it does: Reshapes the nasal bridge and tip, frequently using silicone implants or the patient’s own cartilage (often from the ear or septum) to build height and structure.
• Ideal for: Those with a low nasal bridge, a bulbous or undefined nasal tip, or a nose that feels out of proportion with other facial features.
• Recovery: 2-3 weeks for most swelling to resolve; final shape settles over several months.
• Average Cost in Korea: ₩3,000,000 – ₩7,000,000 KRW (approx. $2,200 – $5,200 USD).

3. Facial Contouring Surgery

This category of advanced procedures is designed to sculpt the underlying bone structure of the face, achieving the coveted “V-line” or heart shape.

• Common Procedures:
  • Jaw Reduction: Shaves down the jawbone’s angles to create a softer, less square lower face.
  • Cheekbone Reduction: Reduces the prominence of the cheekbones for a less angular look.
  • Chin Surgery: Augmentation with an implant or reduction to better balance facial proportions.
• Ideal for: Individuals seeking a dramatic change in their facial shape and harmony.
• Recovery: Several weeks, with significant swelling. A soft-food diet is required initially.
• Average Cost in Korea: ₩7,000,000 – ₩15,000,000+ KRW (approx. $5,200 – $11,100+ USD) per major procedure.

4. Facelift (Rhytidectomy) & The Deep Plane Technique

While often associated with Western patients, the facelift is highly sought-after in Korea, with a strong emphasis on achieving incredibly natural, “undone” results. The deep plane facelift is particularly prized for its ability to address mid-face sagging and restore youthful contours without a “pulled” look.

• What it does: Repositions deeper facial tissues (SMAS layer) and removes excess skin to address jowls, nasolabial folds, and loose skin on the neck.
• Ideal for: Those experiencing moderate to significant sagging in the mid-face, jawline, and neck.
• Recovery: 2-4 weeks for social readiness; final results emerge over 3-6 months.
• Average Cost in Korea: ₩10,000,000 – ₩25,000,000+ KRW (approx. $7,400 – $18,500+ USD).

5. Fat Grafting (Liposuction & Fat Transfer)

This two-part procedure harnesses the body’s own tissue to rejuvenate the face. It involves harvesting fat from one area (like the abdomen or thighs) and purifying it for reinjection into the face.

• What it does: Restores lost volume in areas like the cheeks, under-eyes, and temples, creating a naturally fuller, more youthful appearance. Popular techniques like nanofat grafting are used for fine lines and skin quality improvement.
• Ideal for: Those with volume loss due to ageing, who desire a more natural alternative to synthetic fillers.
• Recovery: 1-2 weeks; some injected fat may be reabsorbed in the first few months.
• Average Cost in Korea: ₩4,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW (approx. $3,000 – $5,900 USD).

Understanding the Cost Factors in Korea

The prices above are estimates. The final cost can vary based on:

• The Surgeon’s Expertise: Renowned, highly specialised surgeons command higher fees.
• Clinic Location and Prestige: Practices in upscale areas of Seoul (e.g., Gangnam) are typically more expensive.
• Procedure Complexity: A primary rhinoplasty costs less than a complex revision.
• Anaesthesia and Facility Fees: These are often included in package prices, but confirm what is covered.
• Combination Procedures: Many patients combine surgeries (e.g., eyes and nose), which can affect the total price.

Conclusion: Planning Your Transformation

Korean facial plastic surgery offers a world of possibilities for those seeking refined, natural-looking results. The key to a successful outcome lies in thorough research, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in your desired procedure, and having clear, realistic communication about your goals.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Costs are estimates and can fluctuate. All surgical decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional after a thorough in-person consultation.

Resources

1. Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons – (https://www.prskorea.org/english/)

This article was reviewed by RNWOOD Plastic Surgery.

RNWOOD Plastic Surgery is a Premium Boutique Clinic located in Seoul, South Korea. The clinic is led by the globally recognised Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr Minhee Ryu, who is widely acknowledged as a leading authority in the Deep Plane Facelift. Renowned for his advanced techniques and commitment to natural, long-lasting results, he has shared his expertise as a Faculty member at the prestigious MAFAC (Mendelson Advanced Facial Anatomy Course) since 2016 and serves on the Editorial Board of the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal.