Medical tourism: derm & plastic

Korea's clinics are excellent — but the hard part is choosing one and avoiding upsell. A calm, step-by-step playbook for skin and cosmetic procedures.

The 5-step playbook

1 · Shortlist before you fly

Use platforms (Gangnam Unni, Jivaka, Babitalk) for reviews + English/Chinese consults. Favor clinics that publish prices and have an in-house interpreter.

2 · Get a written quote

Ask for an itemized estimate by message before arriving. A clinic that won't quote until you're in the chair is a red flag.

3 · Consult, don't commit same-day

Beware "today only" discounts and add-ons stacked during consultation. Sleep on big procedures.

4 · Confirm who operates

Ask if the consulting doctor performs the procedure (avoid "ghost surgery"). Get it in writing.

5 · Plan recovery + downtime

Book accommodation near the clinic for follow-ups. Ask for the after-hours contact and the side-effect plan before you pay.

Where the clinics are

Gangnam (Apgujeong/Sinsa "beauty belt") concentrates derm + plastic. Big university hospitals run international clinics for screenings and complex care.

Medical VAT refund

Certain cosmetic procedures qualify for a foreigner medical VAT refund at designated clinics. Ask in advance and keep all receipts. verify eligibility

Red flags

· No itemized quote / pressure to decide today.
· Procedures added during consultation you didn't ask about.
· No written answer on who performs the surgery.
· No clear after-care or emergency contact.