Korea Plastic Surgery Pre-Op Guide for International Patients

Planning Plastic Surgery in Korea? Here’s What to Know Before Your Procedure

South Korea is one of the world’s top destinations for plastic surgery, attracting thousands of international patients every year. Whether you're coming for eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, anti-aging procedures, or facial contouring, proper preoperative preparation is essential for safety, smooth recovery, and the best results.

This guide gives international patients a step-by-step pre-op checklist, tailored specifically for Korea’s medical system, clinic culture, and travel environment.

Before You Travel: Essential Planning Steps

1. Research Clinics Carefully

Look for clinics that offer:

• Board-certified specialists
• English, Chinese, or Japanese translators
• Transparent pricing
• Before-and-after photos
• Clear surgical philosophies
• Solid post-care systems

Avoid clinics that over-promise drastic changes or push aggressive upsells.

2. Schedule Online Consultations

Most Korean clinics offer:

• WhatsApp or KakaoTalk consultations
• Photo evaluations
• 3D or simulation previews

This helps ensure the clinic understands your goals before you arrive.

3. Plan Your Stay

For plastic surgery, foreign patients should plan to stay in Korea for:

ProcedureRecommended StayEyelid surgery7–10 daysRhinoplasty10–14 daysFacelift / Brow lift10–14 daysFacial bone contouring14–21 daysLiposuction5–7 daysBreast augmentation7–10 days

Longer stays = safer follow-up and better healing.

Medical Preparation (2–4 Weeks Before)

1. Stop Certain Medications

Avoid for 2 weeks prior (if approved by your doctor):

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Fish oil / omega-3
• Vitamin E
• Herbal supplements (ginseng, gingko, garlic, turmeric)

These increase bleeding and bruising.

2. Prepare Your Medical History

Korean clinics will ask about:

• Chronic conditions
• Allergies
• Medications
• Past surgeries
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Anesthesia reactions

Be honest — safety depends on accurate information.

3. Stop Smoking & Nicotine

Quit 4 weeks before and after surgery.
Nicotine reduces blood flow → higher infection and scarring risk.

4. Maintain Stable Weight

For facial or body surgery, fluctuations can affect results.

Documents & Practical Preparation

1. Prepare These Essentials

• Passport
• Copies of medical records
• Prescription medications
• Emergency contacts
• Travel insurance that covers medical care

2. Download Important Apps

• KakaoTalk (clinic communication)
• Naver Map / KakaoMap (Korea’s Google Maps)
• Papago (translation)

3. Book a Hotel Near Your Clinic

Best neighborhoods for surgery trips:

• Gangnam
• Sinsa
• Apgujeong
• Cheongdam

Staying nearby reduces walking, swelling, and surgery-day stress.

One Week Before Surgery

1. Follow Clinic Pre-Op Instructions

This may include:

• Blood tests
• ECG
• COVID testing (if required)
• Stopping alcohol
• Adjusting medications

2. Prepare Post-Op Supplies

Korea has everything, but packing these helps:

• Cold packs
• Compression headband (if needed)
• Sterile gauze
• Loose clothing (front zipper shirts)
• Sunglasses or hats
• Travel pillow
• Protein and hydration drinks

The Day Before Surgery

1. No Alcohol or Heavy Meals

Avoid alcohol for 48 hours before surgery.

2. Fasting Instructions

Most general anesthesia procedures require:

• No food for 8 hours
• No water for 2 hours
  Confirm with your clinic.

3. Shower & Wash Hair Thoroughly

Keep the surgical area clean.

Surgery Day in Korea

Expect:

• Final consultation
• Digital design mapping
• Consent forms
• Pre-op photos
• Anesthesia team check
• Meeting your surgical nurse

Some clinics offer translator accompaniment throughout.

Post-Op Preparation for International Patients

1. Plan for Rest

Your first 48 hours should be:

• Low-movement
• Cold compress every hour
• No bending or straining

2. Follow-Up Visits

Most clinics schedule:

• Day 1 check
• Day 3–5 stitch removal
• Day 7–10 final check
• Optional scar care laser

3. Prepare for Travel

Before flying:

• Avoid heavy lifting
• Wear loose sunglasses
• Use compression socks (long flights)
• Stay hydrated

Tips for First-Time Plastic Surgery Travelers

1. Avoid Clinics Known for Upselling

Trust clinics that:

• Don’t push unnecessary procedures
• Explain risks honestly
• Provide realistic outcomes

2. Don’t Rush Your Schedule

Rest days matter. Korea’s beauty culture encourages fast-paced treatments, but major surgery needs recovery time.

3. Arrange Airport Transportation

Some clinics provide pick-up services for international patients.