A factory clinic in Seoul handles many patients and pushes for quick turnover. It relies on standardized procedures and aggressive marketing. Often, these clinics use ghost doctors: junior associates do the surgery, not the lead surgeon. To avoid them, make sure the surgeon leads the consultation and check for board certifications from KSPRS.
- Ghost doctor risks: Get written confirmation that your chosen surgeon performs 100% of the procedure.
- Consultation depth: Avoid clinics where sales coordinators plan your treatment instead of the surgeon.
- Specialization focus: Focus on single-surgeon practices, like SAERO Plastic Surgery or Returning Plastic Surgery.
- Safety credentials: Look for KOIHA-accredited facilities or KAHF-certified centers like AB Plastic Surgery.
Bookimed Expert Insight: The safest way to avoid that factory feel is choosing clinics with a low patient-to-surgeon ratio. Mega-centers like AB Plastic Surgery serve 24,000 patients with 30+ specialists. On the other hand, boutique clinics like SAERO serve only 700. Single-surgeon clinics naturally prevent ghost doctoring. The lead specialist oversees every case personally.
Patient Consensus: Patients warn against high-pressure sales of extra procedures during rushed consultations. Real experiences suggest staying in Seoul for 14 days. This way, the primary surgeon can handle all follow-up care.