EP.01 Why Do Koreans Consult at Least 3 Places Before Plastic Surgery?
Updated: 2026-07-22
Why Koreans Visit at Least 3 Clinics Before Surgery
Among foreign patients seeking plastic surgery in Korea, many choose a single well-known clinic, receive an online consultation, and book an appointment immediately.
However, Korean patients often do not decide on surgery right away after consulting with just one place. Typically, they compare several clinics to find the doctor and surgical method that suits them best.
Why do Koreans visit multiple clinics?
Even with the same concerns, diagnoses can vary from doctor to doctor.
For example, even when receiving the same rhinoplasty consultation, the methods suggested by different doctors may differ.
One doctor might say that correcting the tip of the nose is more important than the bridge, while another might explain that the overall facial proportions must be considered alongside the nose.
The same applies to facial contouring and eye surgery. Even when looking at the same face, opinions regarding the necessary scope of surgery and the design direction can differ.
If you receive multiple consultations, you can identify the following differences beyond simply comparing prices.
**Why Koreans Visit at Least 3 Clinics Before Surgery** Doctor's diagnostic approach
Recommended surgical method
Expected changes
Recovery period
Explanation of side effects and limitations
Post-operative care methods
Prices also vary by hospital
Even if the same surgery name is used, there may be differences in the quote.
This is because the final cost varies depending on the size of the hospital, the attending physician, the anesthesia method, materials used, examination fees, and whether post-operative care is included.
Therefore, rather than simply looking for the cheapest hospital, you should verify what is included in the price.
The atmosphere of the consultation is also an important selection criterion.
Korean patients also check how sincerely the hospital answers their questions during the consultation.
If they do not have enough time to meet with the doctor, are overly pressured to pay on the same day, or if the explanation regarding side effects and the recovery process is insufficient, they may postpone their decision.
A good consultation should help the patient have sufficient time to ask questions and think.
Items to compare after consultation
After consulting with each hospital, please summarize the following points. Name of attending physician
Recommended surgery and procedure
Reason for needing surgery
Areas that do not require surgery
Total estimated cost
Potential additional costs
Recovery period
Criteria for revision surgery and post-operative care
Medical appointment schedule required before departure
Korean Local Tip
Never choose a clinic after only one consultation.
It is recommended to compare at least two or three clinics rather than deciding based on the explanation from just one. By distinguishing between common opinions and differing opinions from multiple consultations, you can more objectively determine the treatment you need.
Local Price Korea is here to help.
If you inquire directly with multiple Korean hospitals while abroad, it is difficult to compare them due to differences in language, pricing standards, and response formats.
Local Price Korea helps you verify and compare information on Korean hospitals and procedures.
Instead of blindly choosing a famous hospital, find the hospital and doctor that suit you.
Don’t book like a tourist. Choose like a local.