Best Lifting Treatments in Korea for Foreign Patients
Korea has become a leading destination for non-surgical lifting, and Gangnam in particular attracts visitors from all over the world. For foreign patients, the best treatment is not only the most effective one — it also has to fit a short stay, a flight home and limited opportunities for follow-up.
This guide explains what foreign patients should look for, which lifting treatments work best for international visitors, how to plan a trip around treatment, and what to know about prices and tax refunds.
1. What foreign patients should look for
Low downtime, so you can enjoy your trip and fly home comfortably.
Results from a single session where possible.
A clear treatment plan explained in English.
A doctor who assesses your face rather than selling a fixed package.
Transparent pricing, including tax-free benefits for foreign passport holders.
A way to ask questions after you return home.
2. Ultherapy and Ulthera Prime
One session, minimal downtime and a natural lift that peaks at two to three months — after you are already home. This makes Ultherapy one of the most popular choices for international visitors. Real-time imaging allows precise placement of energy at the SMAS layer for a structural lift of the brow, jawline and neck.
Typical price: around KRW 1,500,000 to KRW 3,500,000 per session. Results typically last about a year, or around 12 to 18 months with Ulthera Prime.
3. 10THERMA
Comfortable monopolar RF tightening with no downtime, ideal for firmness and texture. It suits slimmer faces and people who want firmer skin without a strong structural lift. One session typically lasts 12 to 18 months.
Typical price: around KRW 800,000 to KRW 2,500,000.
4. ONDA lifting
ONDA reduces fullness in the lower face with no downtime, making it easy to combine with other treatments on the same trip. It is a good choice for a heavy jawline or double chin.
Typical price: around KRW 500,000 to KRW 1,200,000.
5. Thread lift
A thread lift gives an immediate lift — useful if you want to see the result before you leave Korea. Expect about 24 to 48 hours of swelling or tightness, so schedule it early in your trip.
Typical price: around KRW 1,200,000 to KRW 3,000,000.
6. Skin boosters as add-ons
Rejuran Healer or Juvelook can be added to a lifting session to improve skin quality. Small bumps usually settle in one to three days, so they fit well into a short stay. If you can only visit once, the first booster session can be done with your lifting treatment and later sessions planned for another trip.
7. Planning your trip
Day 1: consultation with AI 3D skin analysis and treatment.
Days 2 to 3: sightseeing while minor redness or swelling settles.
Before flying: a quick check-up if you had threads or injections.
At MIN Clinic in Cheongdam, our English-speaking team can arrange appointments by WhatsApp before you arrive and answer questions after you return home.
8. Prices and tax refunds
Prices in Korea are often lower than in many Western countries for the same devices and products. Cosmetic treatments are generally subject to 10% VAT, but foreign passport holders may be eligible for tax-free benefits on eligible treatments. Bring your passport to your appointment. See our Korean skin treatment cost guide and event price list.
9. How to compare clinics
Check the exact device name, the number of lines or shots, whether a doctor performs the treatment and what follow-up is included. Very low prices may mean a generic device or fewer lines than expected.
10. Safety tips for medical travellers
Share your medical history and medications honestly, avoid booking too many treatments in one day, and allow some buffer time before your flight in case you need a check-up.
11. Choosing the right combination
Many visitors combine a lifting treatment with a skin booster, or ONDA with Ultherapy, to address more than one concern in a single visit. Your doctor will plan the order and spacing around your schedule.
Conclusion
For foreign patients, Ultherapy, 10THERMA and ONDA are the easiest lifting treatments to fit into a short trip, with threads and boosters as powerful additions when time allows. Message our English-speaking team on WhatsApp to plan your visit, or browse our non-surgical facelift treatments.
This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Results vary by individual, and a doctor's consultation is required before any treatment.
