The Ultimate Guide to Breast Augmentation in South Korea

Last fact-checked: 16 October 2019

Find out all you need to know about breast augmentation in South Korea and discover quality-checked surgeons who perform this procedure for thousands less than at home – all of whom have been professionally verified by Medical Departures.  

Whether you want to increase the size of your breasts with implants or autologous fat transfer, we can help you find the best surgeon for your procedure.

Why Should I Have Breast Augmentation in South Korea?

South Korea might not be one of the most popular tourist destinations for Westerners compared to Thailand, but it does offer just as much. Seoul, the capital, is modern, exciting and dizzyingly fast-paced, but like most Asian countries, it retains its traditions and history. Throughout the country, you’ll find gorgeous scenery, spectacular beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the remains of dynasties long gone – more than enough to keep you occupied if you fancy a little holiday before your surgery.

The prices in South Korea for breast augmentation are considerably less than at home. This may be one of the things that attract you, but it shouldn’t be your only consideration. It’s no good saving money if you get a lousy job – and it’s your body, so treat it well.

By this, we mean that you have to do some research of your own. It’s true there are A LOT of plastic surgery clinics in South Korea – with procedures like breast implants, nose jobs and double eyelid surgery all very common, especially for young Koreans living in big cities.

Medical tourism is on the increase here too - mainly due to the expertise on offer, high standards of hygiene and safety and the cost. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your homework though.

Booking with Medical Departures

To make life easier, Medical Departures makes searching for pre-screened surgeons and clinics far more straightforward than endlessly searching through Google. By this, we mean that we have verified doctor qualifications, professional memberships and paid onsite visits to clinics and hospitals. We also gather real patient testimonials, high-definition clinic photos and virtual video tours and we publish all of them online for you to access freely. You can then choose your surgeon with the full knowledge their credentials are reliable.

South Korea is a great option for a surgery holiday, and although it may seem a little off the beaten track, people are very friendly and helpful. They might not be fluent in English (although most surgeons are) but they’ll certainly do their best to help you get by.

Check out three of the most popular facilities in South Korea for breast augmentations below:

• BANOBAGI Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics
• Dream Medical Group
• Oracle Clinic (Cheongdam)

What Is the Procedure for Breast Augmentation and How Long Does it Take?

The actual surgery normally takes an hour or two, although several hours will be needed before and after for planning and post-surgery recovery at the medical facility before you head back to your hotel. 

The breasts can be increased in size with the autologous fat transfer method, where fat is removed from another part of the body by liposuction, cleansed and processed, and then injected into the breasts, or by implants. The fat transfer method is only recommended if you want only a small increase in size. Otherwise, you will choose the size and type of implant with your surgeon before you have the surgery. The implants are filled with either saline, silicone or sometimes biodegradable products, such as soybean oil.

During surgery, incisions will be made at appropriate positions on or under the breast – either around the nipple, under the armpit or in the crease under the breast. The implants are inserted through the incision and the wounds stitched closed.

How Long Does the Recovery Time Take for Breast Augmentation?

You will, of course, be a little tender and bruised after surgery, but in comparison to other cosmetic surgery treatments, recovery time is fairly quick for breast augmentation – most people return to work after a week or so.

Taking things slowly, no lifting or stretching too much, you will gradually feel less stiff and should be feeling pretty normal again after a month. You should still avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for around six weeks.

How Much Can I Save on Breast Augmentation in South Korea Compared to Australia or New Zealand?

Breast augmentation in South Korea costs on average AUD $9,600 (UK £5,200; EURO 6,500; US 7,400) compared to AUD $16,500 (UK £9,000; EURO 11,200; US 12,700).

These prices are estimates at the time of writing; we advise all patients to check out our individual listings for the most up-to-date prices. 

How Do I Get Started?

First, it's time to do your own research by checking out our surgeons and clinics in South Korea.

Booking is easy; simply call our toll free phone number, use the online chat or online booking system. Our Customer Care Team are always around to advise, answer your questions and give you a helping hand. Want to know the cost? Ask for a quote – it’s free. 

Sources:

Odunze, Millicent. Pros and Cons of Autologous Breast Augmentation. Very Well health. 3 July 2019.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/bigger-breasts-without-getting-implants-pros-cons-2709949" target="_blank

Chan, Annette. The 14 best things to do in Seoul. TimeOut. 12 September 2018.
https://www.timeout.com/seoul/en/things-to-do/best-things-to-do-in-seoul" target="_blank

Lee, Alexa. South Korea's Plastic Surgery Boom: A Quest To Be 'Above Normal'. Huff Post. 18 August 2018.
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/korea-plastic-surgery_l_5d72afb0e4b07521022c00e1" target="_blank

(Image by: Travel Oriented)