Facelift in Republic of Korea: Our Best Clinics and Costs 2025
7 Recent Facelift Reviews in Republic of Korea: Check Real Patient Experience
Anonymous • Facelift Chile Nov 16, 2024
Caroline Pardue • Facelift Republic of Korea Jun 30, 2025
Sue Galanius • Facelift United States of America Aug 19, 2024
Shlomit Tobias • Facelift Canada Sep 29, 2024
Robert Pettit • Facelift Mongolia Apr 28, 2024
Mina • Facelift Morocco Mar 2, 2024
Facelift Overview in Republic of Korea
- Mini Facelift - from $3500
The procedure rejuvenates the face by tightening skin and reducing sag, with less incisions and quicker recovery.
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This therapy is a non-invasive method to tighten skin using dissolvable threads, promoting collagen production and rejuvenation.
- Facial Fat Transfer - from $746
This procedure involves transferring fat to the face for smoother, fuller features, offering a natural, long-lasting result.
- Buccal Fat Extraction - from $746
The operation removes cheek fat pads for a slimmer face, done under anesthesia with minimal side effects.
- Endoscopic facelift - from $5000
The procedure is a minimally invasive facial rejuvenation operation using cutting-edge endoscopic technology.
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This therapy tightens facial skin using radiofrequency. Its precise applicator causes minimal damage and guarantees a natural effect.
- Deep Plane Facelift - from $4476
- Nonsurgical Facelift - from $1112Cosmetic treatment that involves injecting dermal fillers to smooth wrinkles and restore facial volume, offering a youthful appearance without surgery or lengthy recovery.
- Threads Lifting - from $1759This non-surgical treatment involves inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten sagging areas, promoting collagen production for natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal recovery time.
- This cosmetic surgery reduces cheek fullness by removing excess fat pads, enhancing facial contours for a more chiseled appearance with minimal recovery time.
- This cosmetic procedure involves targeted facial rejuvenation techniques to address sagging and volume loss, restoring a youthful appearance with minimal recovery time.
- Documents: Passport and ticket copies.
- or
- Deposit:
- Bookimed deposit: $200 or €200.
- Clinic deposit: Pay a set percentage in advance.
Day 1
- Arrival in the country and transfer to the clinic.
- Settling into your private room.
Day 2
- Consultation with a dermatologist.
- Pre-operative medical tests.
- Discussion of expectations and procedure details.
Day 3
- Preparation for the surgery.
- Administration of anesthesia.
- Performing the facelift surgery, which lasts 3-4 hours.
Day 4
- Post-operation observation.
- Consultation with the surgeon regarding recovery process.
Day 5
- Discharge from the clinic and transfer to your accommodation.
Week 1-2
- Refrain from strenuous activities.
- Regular follow-up appointments.
Week 3-4
- Return to non-strenuous work.
- Continued follow-up appointments.
Week 5-6
- Return to regular activities, including sports.
- Final results will start to become visible.
Please note: Each individual case may vary and this is a general guide.
What patients like:
- Cost.The Facelift surgery cost in Republic of Korea ranges from $2312 to $11000. This price is significantly lower compared to the average cost of Facelift surgery in Western countries, which is about $12,000.
- Doctor’s professionalism. Patients appreciate the effectiveness of the facelift surgeries performed by Korean doctors. Their kind demeanor and ability to ensure patients' comfort during recovery is highly praised.
- Service level. Patients are gratified by the high level of service provided by the clinic staff, especially the English-speaking assistants who are cheerful and comforting during the recovery period.
- Facelift surgery efficacy. Patients are satisfied with the efficiency and effectiveness of the facelift surgeries performed in Korea, which have led to successful outcomes.
- Logistics. Patients value the seamless logistics provided by Korean clinics, which make the entire procedure and recovery process smooth and hassle-free.
What patients don't like:
- Patients may find the language barrier challenging, especially if they do not have access to English-speaking assistance.
- The distance and travel logistics can be a drawback for patients living in Western countries.
How Much Does Facelift Cost in Republic of Korea?
The cost of a facelift in South Korea typically ranges from _price_from_ to _price_to_. Prices vary depending on the clinic, the surgeon’s expertise, and the complexity of the facelift (full, mini, or SMAS technique). In the United States, the average price is _price_compare_us_average_ (per ASPS). Facelift surgery in South Korea is about _price_percent_discount_% less than in the U.S.
Korean clinics usually include the initial consultation, pre-op blood tests, post-op medication, follow-up visits, English-speaking staff, personalized treatment plans, post-op care instructions, meals during clinic visits, and 24/7 support. In the U.S., listed prices often cover only the surgeon’s fee, with anesthesia, facility, and follow-ups billed separately. Always confirm what’s included with your chosen clinic.
Discover the Hottest Facelift Packages of the Season
VG Plastic Surgery is a top-tier medical center specializing in eye surgery, rhinoplasty, facial contouring, facelifts, breast surgery, and body liposuction/lifting. With a team of board-certified specialists and multilingual staff, the clinic provides exceptional care to patients from 47 countries. Features include state-of-the-art operating rooms, advanced safety systems, and luxurious accommodations, ensuring a seamless and high-quality experience.
accreditations:
SAERO Plastic Surgery is a private clinic located in Seoul’s Gangnam district, specializing exclusively in plastic surgery. With over 24 years of experience, the clinic is led by a skilled surgeon who provides personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's medical needs. SAERO serves adult patients from Europe & Commonwealth, Asia, the USA, Canada, and Australia.
JK Plastic Surgery Center is the top clinic for international patients looking for cosmetic surgeries in South Korea (KAHF). Over 6,000 medical tourists visit JK Plastic Surgery Clinic each year to get the safest surgeries for the eyes, nose, body contouring, and anti-aging. JK shows 100% success rate of all procedures performed in the hospital.
It is a premium center with 20-years history and numerous awards. The JK medical team accounts over 85,000 plastic procedures provided according to the world quality standards. It is the best option for those who want excellent services in luxurious surroundings with the best results.
accreditations:
HERSHE Plastic Surgery Korea operates as a private multi-specialty medical center in Seoul, Korea. The clinic's team dedicates its expertise to plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine, and cosmetology. The center reports success rates of 93.7% for facelifts and 94.3% for blepharoplasty (eyelid correction). HERSHE Plastic Surgery has served patients since 1992. It focuses on anti-aging, body contouring, and rejuvenation treatments. The center aims to help patients achieve natural appearances and feel confident through safe and effective procedures. HERSHE Plastic Surgery Korea treats adults exclusively. Patients from Asia, the USA, Canada, and Australia visit the clinic most frequently.
accreditations:
| Facelift | $5221.67 - $8205.48 |
accreditations:
| Facelift | $3300 - $8700 |
41 Before & after photos
Returning Plastic Surgery is a personalized clinic that emphasizes natural and balanced results. The board-certified specialist has extensive clinical experience and ensures patient safety and reliable outcomes using the latest techniques. Through ongoing research and innovation, the clinic maintains high success rates and patient satisfaction.
The Head Surgeon, Dr. Kim Yong-woo, has performed successful facelift procedures on close family members, reflecting his confidence in his expertise and his commitment to treating every patient with the same care and attention.
Based on this expertise and dedication, Returning Plastic Surgery provides medical care and results tailored to the individual needs of each patient.
accreditations:
| Facelift | $7323.9 - $10172.08 |
URBAN Plastic Surgery is a private clinic in Seoul, South Korea, specializing in plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine. The clinic focuses on enhancing natural beauty while prioritizing patient safety and comfort. The team believes that the right procedure can highlight individuality and boost confidence.
The clinic is staffed by three plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and a multilingual support team, ensuring a smooth experience for international patients. URBAN Plastic Surgery serves only adults and welcomes around 8,000 patients annually. Most visitors come from Asia, the USA, Canada, Australia, Spain, Chile, and CIS countries.
Forena Clinic is a private single-specialty medical center in Seoul, South Korea, specializing in aesthetic medicine and cosmetology. It serves only adults. Each year, 20,000 patients choose Forena Clinic, with most coming from Europe & the Commonwealth, Asia, the USA, Canada, and Australia.
accreditations:
RNWOOD Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Minhee Ryu, is a boutique clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, specializing in facial rejuvenation procedures. The clinic provides blepharoplasty, fat grafting with stem cell and nanofat techniques, revision surgeries, and deep plane facelift as a key focus area.
RNWOOD also offers multilingual consultations in English, Korean, Chinese, and Indonesian, along with airport transfer services and post-operative care.
accreditations:
| Facelift | $20000 - $50000 |
Samsung Medical Center is a prominent multidisciplinary hospital in South Korea that has repetitively received many awards in customer satisfaction and services quality. It has a special status of “Hospital of presidential standards”. A part of Samsung Medical Complex, Comprehensive Cancer Center provides the most thorough treatment for cancer patients using state-of-the-art equipment: Novalis, IGRT (image-guided radiation therapy), Da Vinci surgical system, etc.
accreditations:
Gachon University Gil Medical Center is a multidisciplinary hospital, providing medical services of the international level and is a leading hospital not only Korea, but also in Asia. Gil Hospital is located in the heart of Incheon at 1 hour drive from Incheon International Airport.
accreditations:
Onlif Plastic Surgery Korea is a premier private multi-specialty medical center located in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The clinic's dedicated team specializes in plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine, and cosmetology. Onlif Plastic Surgery is certified as an excellent healthcare service provider and has been selected as a Liftera Key Opinion Leader. Onlif Plastic Surgery Korea attracts patients from Asia, the USA, Canada, Australia, and other countries who frequently visit the clinic for specialized care.
accreditations:
Wonjin Plastic is one of the well-known medical facilities in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The clinic is dedicated to plastic surgery procedures. Patients from the United States, Canada, the UK, and other countries choose Wonjin Plastic for healthcare.
| Facelift | $2000 - $10700 |
Banobagi is a plastic and aesthetic clinic in Seoul, South Korea.
The clinic specializes in face and body plastic surgery, rejuvenation with stem cells.
Banobagi is an official medical center of a popular Asian show — Let Me In. The participants of this show change their appearance at Banobagi.
2,000 people choose Banobagi for plastic surgery each year.
Patients from the USA, China, Vietnam, Thailand, etc. pick Banobagi.
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital is one of the most innovative multidisciplinary medical centers in Korea.
It is the 1st digital hospital in the country. The hospital is equipped witg BESTcare system that allows avoiding medical errors, improving treatment safety and effectiveness.
Bundang specializes in general and abdominal surgery, oncology, orthopedics and traumatology. 1,500,000 patients undergo treatment at in hospital every year.
accreditations:
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Our Trusted Doctors
accreditations:
- Dr. Im uses the SMAS technique for facelift, ensuring natural, long-lasting results.
- Trained in South Korea, contributing to global standards in facelift surgery.
- Board-certified plastic surgeon, member of the Korean Association of Plastic Surgeons.
- Received the Top Brand Award in Beauty and Aesthetic Surgery by LBMA.
- Known for facelift surgery with aesthetically balanced, natural outcomes.
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FAQ about Facelift in Republic of Korea
What is a Korean face lift?
A facelift is a procedure that tightens sagging skin and repositions facial tissues for a more youthful look. It mainly targets the cheeks, jawline, and neck—areas where aging tends to show first.
A Korean facelift is a modern, expertly refined version of the traditional facelift surgery. It delivers facial rejuvenation while keeping results natural and elegant.

Here’s what typically sets a facelift in Korea apart:
✔️ Natural-looking results. The goal is to look refreshed, not "done."
✔️ Tightening facial muscles at deeper levels (SMAS layer or deep plane) for longer-lasting effects.
✔️ Minimal scarring. Incisions are hidden behind the ears, along the hairline, or inside the mouth to minimize visible scarring.
✔️ Customized approach. Whether it's a mid-face lift, lower face, or full Korean lift, the plan is made just for the patient’s facial features.
Why choose Korea for a facelift?

✦ Affordable prices
A facelift in South Korea costs 40%–70% less than in the US or Europe due to lower operating costs, a competitive market, the government’s support of medical tourism, and favorable exchange rates.
✦ Cosmetic surgery capital of the world
South Korea performs roughly 25% of the world’s cosmetic surgeries. That’s more than any other country per capita.
✦ Pioneering surgical innovations
Korean surgeons are known for developing new techniques that often reach the West years later. These include:
- minimally invasive facelift methods;
- Korean thread lift options using PDO or PLLA threads for a non-surgical lift;
- high-tech skin tightening devices, like Ultraformer III (HIFU) and Ulthera, which use focused ultrasound to contract collagen and lift loose skin without incisions;
- stem cell–enhanced facelifts that support collagen production and improve elasticity.
✦ Top-tier surgeons
With a population of just 51 million, it’s home to over 2,700 board-certified plastic surgeons—the highest density globally.
Korean plastic surgeons perform hundreds of facelifts each year and specialize in subtle transformations. They combine advanced techniques with a deep understanding of facial balance. The surgeons are members of international organizations like:
- International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS);
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
✦ Modern clinics with 5-star service
Korean hospitals often look more like luxury hotels than medical centers. English-speaking staff, private recovery rooms, and airport transfers are frequently included.
✦ Medical tourism hotspot
Each year, around 114,000 foreign patients come to South Korea for aesthetic surgery, including Korean facelift procedures. Clinics are well-prepared for international visitors, offering concierge-like service, English-speaking staff, and quick scheduling.
Who is an ideal candidate for a facelift in South Korea?
Ideal candidates for a facelift in Korea typically meet the following criteria:
✔ Have visible signs of aging (sagging facial skin, deep folds, jowls)
✔ In good health, with no severe medical conditions
✔ Non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
✔ Want natural-looking results that enhance, not alter, their facial identity
✔ Prefer refined, minimally invasive techniques developed by Korean specialists
What are the types of facelift surgery available in Korea?
South Korea offers a full range of facelift procedures, from surgical to non-surgical. The surgical options include:
- Traditional (full) facelift. Comprehensive facial rejuvenation addressing the mid-face and jowls. Traditional facelifts are often combined with neck lifts. Ideal for more advanced aging.
- Mini facelift. Focuses on lifting the lower face and reducing jowls using minimal incisions. Mini facelifts are best for patients with early signs of aging.
- SMAS facelift. Tightens both the skin and the muscular layer beneath the skin for a lifting effect without tension on the skin surface. Popular for creating a natural, rejuvenated appearance.
- Deep plane facelift. Lifts the deeper facial tissues rather than just the skin, creating exceptionally natural results. Deep plane facelifts are highly regarded in Korea for avoiding an "operated" appearance. Especially effective for severely sagging skin and deep nasolabial folds.
Non-invasive facelift options in Korea include:
- Liquid facelift. Uses fillers and Botox for temporary lifting (6–18 months) without surgery.
- Thread lift. A popular Korean lift using dissolvable threads to lift the skin subtly. Thread lift effects last 1–2 years.
- Laser lifting. Stimulates collagen production for gradual skin tightening—no needles or surgical procedures needed.
Korean plastic surgeons often combine these approaches based on individual facial anatomy.
Can you combine a facelift with other surgeries in Korea?
Yes, combining a facelift with other procedures is not only common but often recommended by Korean surgeons for a more balanced rejuvenation.
A facelift with a neck lift is the most common combination that addresses both facial skin and neck wrinkles. Korean surgeons consider this almost a standard pairing rather than separate procedures, as the neck and lower face aging are closely connected.
Other procedures that patients can combine with a facelift are:
What are the steps of a facelift in Korea?
A typical facelift procedure in Korea follows these key steps:
1. Consultation. Your surgeon analyzes your facial structure and aging patterns to create a customized plastic surgery plan.
2. Pre-op tests. Basic bloodwork, ECG, and other health checks.
3. Anesthesia. Surgeons usually use general anesthesia or IV sedation.
4. Incisions. Incisions are placed in discreet areas (around the ears, hairline, or under the chin).
5. Tissue repositioning. The surgeon lifts and tightens the sagging skin, SMAS layer, or deeper layers.
6. Fat grafting. Excess fat may be removed or repositioned to restore youthful facial contours.
7. Skin redraping. Excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is gently redraped over the new contours.
8. Suturing & dressing. Incisions are closed with fine sutures; bandages or compression garments are applied.
9. Recovery & follow-ups. Patients receive post-operative care instructions, medications, and regular check-ins.
| Surgery time | 2–4 hours |
| Hospitalization | ~1 night for traditional facelift methods; outpatient for mini facelifts |
| Stitch removal | 4–7 days; not needed for dissolving sutures |
How long do you need to stay in Korea for a facelift surgery?
Most patients stay in South Korea for 7 to 10 days after their facelift surgery to allow time for follow-ups, stitch removal, and initial healing. Here's an example of a timeline:
- Day 1: Consultation and pre-op tests
- Day 2: Surgery
- Days 3–6: Rest and check-ups at the clinic
- Days 7–10: Final check-up and clearance to fly home
Some clinics may recommend a slightly longer stay (up to 2 weeks) for more complex procedures or if combined with other surgeries.
What is recovery like after a Korean lift?
| Recovery phase |
What to expect |
| Week 1 | Swelling and bruising peak. Rest is key. Pain is managed with meds. |
| Week 2 | Swelling and bruising fade. Some numbness or tightness is normal. Most patients return to light daily activities or work. The face looks presentable to the public. |
| Weeks 3–4 | Facial contour improves. Exercise can resume. Incisions may appear pink but are healing well. |
| After 1 month | Most normal activities resume. Minor swelling and tightness may persist, but are only noticeable to the patient. |
| Months 2–3 | The face feels completely “back to normal”. |
What are the potential risks of a Korean facelift?
Facelift surgery is overwhelmingly safe—98.2% of procedures result in no complications.
However, as with any surgery, rare risks may occur:
- hematoma;
- scarring;
- temporary nerve injury;
- temporary hair loss.
Bookimed helps reduce these risks by connecting patients only with verified Korean clinics and top-rated plastic surgeons.
What are the long-term results of a Korean facelift?
A Korean facelift delivers long-lasting, natural-looking results that last around 10 years.
Long-term benefits include:
- lifted facial contours;
- a more defined jawline;
- smoother skin with fewer deep lines.
Studies show that people appear about 6 years younger to others after a facelift.
Over time, the natural aging process continues, and skin may begin to sag again. To prolong facelift results, it’s recommended to use daily sun protection and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What is the price of a facelift in Korea?
Facelift prices in South Korea vary between $2,000 and $13,500, depending on the type of procedure.
| Type of facelift | Estimated price (USD) |
| Mini facelift | $2,000–$6,000 |
| Traditional facelift procedure | $9,000–$13,000 |
| Premium SMAS facelift | $13,500+ |
By comparison, a facelift in the United States averages $18,000 and can reach $50,000 at top-tier clinics. That means patients can save up to 70% by choosing a Korean lift.
What’s included in a facelift package in Korea?
Korean facelift packages are designed for medical tourists and include more than just surgery.
| Usually included | Additional inclusions in premium packages |
| Consultation with a plastic surgeon | Chest X-ray and echocardiography |
| Anesthesia | Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for faster recovery |
| Pre-op blood tests | Skin booster and vitamin infusions |
| Mini, SMAS, or full facelift procedure | Cosmetic recovery kits |
| Follow-up visits and dressing changes | 24/7 nurse support |
| Compression garments | Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) |
| Basic post-op wound care | Beauty services (e.g., hair wash after surgery) |
| Transfers between the airport, the clinic, and the hotel | Nutritionist services |
| Language assistance |
Are there any alternatives to a facelift in Korea?
Yes, Korea is a global leader not only in surgical facelifts but also in non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
If you’re not ready for surgery, less invasive methods include:
- Non-surgical facelifts, such as liquid lifts, thread lifts, and laser lifting.
- High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) that tightens deeper layers by boosting collagen.
- Laser skin resurfacing that removes damaged outer skin layers and stimulates collagen; great for fine lines and texture.
- Chemical peels that apply exfoliating acids to reduce pigmentation, dullness, and facial wrinkles.
- Microneedling that uses ultra-fine needles to gently stimulate collagen production; improves firmness and skin tone.
- Radiofrequency (RF) treatments that gently heat soft tissues to improve skin elasticity.
Resources
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). Face-lift.
- ISAPS. (2023). International Survey on Aesthetic/Cosmetic Procedures Performed in 2023.
- Statista. (2024). Number of foreign patients who visited plastic and cosmetic surgery departments in South Korea from 2009 to 2023.
- Aesthetic Surgery Journal. (2021). How to Prevent and Treat Complications in Facelift Surgery.
- JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery. (2018). Association of Face-lift Surgery With Social Perception, Age, Attractiveness, Health, and Success.
7 Recent Facelift Reviews in Republic of Korea: Check Real Patient Experience
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