Medical Tourism Blog
Facelift in Korea | Types of Facelift, Best Clinics & Costs
Table of contents
- Face Lifting Overview
- Best Clinics in Korea for Facelift In
- Face Lifting in Korea
- Cost of Face Lifting in Korea
- Alternatives to Face Lifting
- Conclusion
Are you ready to embrace a more youthful version of yourself? As facial aesthetics continue to evolve, face lifting in Korea offers a compelling blend of innovation and artistry, designed to defy the signs of aging and enhance your natural beauty with exceptional results.
Face Lifting Overview
Face lifting, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing visible signs of aging in the face and neck. This transformative operation involves tightening the facial skin, removing excess skin, and sometimes repositioning underlying tissues. The result is a more youthful facial contour, with diminished wrinkles and sagging. The evolution of this procedure over the years has led to the development of various techniques, each tailored to meet different aesthetic goals and patient needs.
Various face lifting techniques have been developed to cater to specific needs and preferences. Here, we delve into five common types of face lifting procedures: Deep Plane Facelift, SMAS Facelift, Thread Facelift, Neck Lift, and Fat Grafting. Each of these techniques targets different areas and issues, providing tailored solutions for individuals looking to rejuvenate their appearance.
The Deep Plane Facelift is considered one of the most comprehensive face lifting techniques. It targets deep facial structures, specifically addressing the musculature and connective tissues below the SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) layer. The goal of this procedure is to reposition these deeper layers without overly tightening the skin, which helps achieve a more natural-looking result. It's particularly effective in improving nasolabial folds and sagging cheeks, offering long-lasting results. Because of its depth and complexity, this procedure usually requires a skilled surgeon with substantial experience in facial anatomy.
2. SMAS Facelift
The SMAS Facelift focuses on the layer of tissue just underneath the skin called the Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System (SMAS). This technique lifts and repositions the SMAS layer, tightening facial muscles and removing excess skin. It's useful for enhancing the jawline, reducing jowls, and creating a more youthful facial contour. Compared to a Deep Plane Facelift, the SMAS Facelift might be less invasive, but it still offers significant improvements by addressing both the skin and the underlying supportive structures of the face.
3. Thread Facelift
The Thread Facelift, often referred to as a non-surgical facelift, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses special threads to lift and tighten sagging skin. These threads are inserted into the face through tiny incisions and then pulled to lift the facial tissues. The threads are absorbed by the body over time, stimulating collagen production and providing a supportive structure for the skin to adhere to. This method is best suited for patients looking for a less invasive option with a shorter recovery time, targeting mild to moderate sagging.
4. Neck Lift
A Neck Lift specifically targets aging signs in the neck and lower jawline area. It aims to remove excess skin, eliminate or reduce the appearance of a "turkey neck," and define the jawline. This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with other face lifting techniques for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. It is ideal for individuals concerned with loose skin and fat accumulation in the neck area, providing a smoother, more refined neckline.
5. Fat Grafting
Fat Grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer, involves harvesting fat from one area of the patient's body and injecting it into the face. This technique is used to add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. It can be an adjunct to other face-lifting procedures or performed on its own, particularly for patients seeking a more subtle lift or those focusing on volume loss rather than skin sagging. The fat is typically taken from areas like the abdomen or thighs, purified, and then meticulously placed in the facial areas requiring augmentation.
Each of these face lifting types offers unique advantages and can be tailored to meet the patient's aesthetic goals and recovery expectations. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine the most suitable procedure for achieving a rejuvenated, natural-looking facial appearance.
1. Face Lifting Procedure
The face lifting process begins with pre-operative assessments, including detailed discussions about the patient's expectations and the desired outcome. The actual procedure, which takes a few hours, can be performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon makes incisions, often around the hairline and ears, to minimize visible scarring. Skin is then lifted, tissues are repositioned or removed, and the skin is sutured back into place. This procedure demands precision and care to ensure natural-looking results.
2. Who Is Face Lifting For?
Face lifting can benefit those who seek to address:
- Sagging facial skin and deep creases along the nose and mouth
- Loss of skin elasticity and muscle tone in the face and neck
- Jowls or loss of the defined jawline
- Double chin, due to loose skin or excess fatty deposits under the chin and jaw
3. Face Lifting Aftercare
Post-procedure, it's crucial to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions closely. This includes taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up visits, and caring for the incision sites. Patients are advised to keep their heads elevated and avoid strenuous activities to minimize swelling and promote healing. The application of cold compresses can also alleviate discomfort during the initial recovery phase.
4. Face Lifting Recovery Period
Recovery varies among individuals but typically spans a few weeks to a few months for full effects to become visible. Initial swelling and bruising subside in the first few weeks, allowing the results of the face lift to emerge. Most patients can resume normal activities within two to three weeks, though full recovery and final results may take up to several months to fully manifest.
Best Clinics in Korea for Facelift In
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for facelift in:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | State-of-the-art facility (4 floors), holistic/patient-centered care, board-certified renowned team (Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, Dr. Lee), over a decade of global experience, ongoing research and international education, personalized consultations, continuous attentive aftercare | Meticulously tailored facelifts for natural results, industry-leading safety and natural aesthetics, integration of function with aesthetics, advanced techniques from Korea's top hospitals |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery | Located in Gangnam, rigorous safety (1:1 anesthesiologist monitoring), highly experienced medical team (15+ years avg.), comprehensive aftercare, multiple industry awards, personalized anti-aging treatments | Advanced SMAS layer dissection and lifting, vertical tissue anchoring for natural/long-lasting results, Silhouette Soft thread lifts, over 10,000 lifting procedures by Dr. Soo-Yeon Park (Korea’s top user of Silhouette Soft in 2022) |
| Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic | Personalized, sincerity-driven care, focus on precision, female plastic surgeon on staff, diverse lifting options, in-depth consultations, holistic aftercare | Full face lift, mini lift, endoscopic forehead lift, thread lifting, personalized laser-assisted procedures tailored to unique aging patterns |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Seoul’s vibrant Gangnam district stands out as the premier destination for facelift procedures in Korea, thanks to its world-renowned team of board-certified surgeons and a holistic, patient-centered approach. Led by distinguished experts such as Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, a celebrated researcher and authority in facial contouring and rhinoplasty, and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, the president of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons with global recognition for his expertise and education in the field, THEPLUS continually advances industry standards through ongoing research, international presentations, and training sessions for fellow surgeons. Dr. Kim’s commitment to harmonizing facial features to enhance natural beauty, coupled with Dr. Jeong’s philosophy of integrating function with aesthetics, ensures that every facelift is meticulously tailored to achieve balanced, youthful results. Complementing this excellence is Dr. Lee, who brings top-tier surgical expertise from Korea’s most reputable hospitals, ensuring every procedure follows the highest standards of safety and natural-looking outcomes. THEPLUS Plastic Surgery’s state-of-the-art facility spans four floors dedicated to attentive, continuous care—offering personalized consultations, advanced surgical techniques, and thorough aftercare—all delivered by a team with more than a decade of experience and a global footprint in medical research and education. For patients seeking outstanding facelift results in Korea, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery offers an unparalleled blend of artistry, safety, and innovation.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Located in Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district, Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic stands at the forefront of facial rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments in Korea. Renowned for its innovative and meticulous approach to facelifts, the clinic sets itself apart through advanced surgical techniques that address both the visible and underlying causes of facial sagging. By conducting thorough analyses of each patient’s unique characteristics, Made Young’s surgical team precisely dissects beneath the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer, releases stretched supporting tissues, and then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS layer together. This integrated approach allows for comprehensive tightening, with the lifted tissues anchored in a vertical direction opposite to sagging, avoiding unnatural cheekbone accentuation and providing exceptionally natural, long-lasting results.
At the heart of Made Young is Dr. Soo-Yeon Park, a board-certified plastic surgeon widely recognized for her expertise in advanced thread lifting techniques, including the prestigious Silhouette Soft method, a signature treatment at the clinic. As a “Key Doctor” in Korea and the country’s top user of Silhouette Soft threads in 2022, Dr. Park’s unrivaled technical skill is backed by more than 10,000 successful lifting procedures. The clinic boasts a highly skilled medical team with an average of over 15 years’ experience, a rigorous safety system—featuring dedicated, board-certified anesthesiologists with 1:1 and cross-check monitoring—and a comprehensive aftercare program, all underpinned by multiple industry awards. Patients choosing Made Young can expect not only cutting-edge facial contouring and rejuvenation, but also the highest standards of safety, transparency, and personalized care throughout their transformative journey.
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the premier choice for facelift procedures in Korea thanks to its diverse range of advanced lifting options—including full face lift, mini lift, endoscopic forehead lift, and thread lifting—combined with personalized laser-assisted treatments tailored to each patient’s unique aging patterns. At the heart of the clinic is a philosophy that prioritizes sincerity, precision, and individualized care, ensuring every client receives a custom-designed approach that best matches their specific needs and aesthetic goals. Led by a team of highly specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon, the clinic blends technical expertise with empathy, guiding patients through a comprehensive transformation journey. Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic’s commitment to combining cutting-edge medical techniques, in-depth patient consultation, and holistic aftercare sets it apart as the top destination for those seeking safe, natural-looking, and lasting facelift results in Korea.
You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
Face Lifting in Korea
Korea stands out in the field of face lifting due to its advanced surgical techniques and emphasis on achieving natural-looking results. Korean surgeons are celebrated for their meticulous approach, focusing on precise adjustments and patient-specific strategies. The high standard of care, coupled with competitive pricing, makes Korea an attractive destination for those seeking face lifting procedures.
| Procedure Price | Korean Won (₩) | USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Price | ₩7,000,000 | $5100 |
| High Price | ₩15,000,000 | $10900 |
Exchange rate as of 2025-05-22: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD
Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.
Cost of Face Lifting in Korea
The cost of face lifting in Korea generally ranges between $6,000 and $15,000, significantly lower than the average cost in the USA, which can exceed $20,000. This price variation, combined with Korea's reputation for quality and innovation in cosmetic surgery, makes it an enticing option for international patients. Factors influencing cost include the extent of the procedure, the clinic's reputation, and the surgeon's expertise.
Alternatives to Face Lifting
For those hesitant about surgical procedures, there are several non-surgical alternatives:
- Thread Lifts: Offer a less invasive solution for skin tightening and lifting through the insertion of temporary sutures.
- Dermal Fillers: Can restore lost volume and smooth out wrinkles, providing an immediate lifting effect.
- Ultherapy: Uses ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production, tightening and lifting the skin naturally over time.
Conclusion
Face lifting in Korea represents a fusion of advanced medical techniques, aesthetic innovation, and a deep understanding of facial harmony. Whether opting for a traditional face lift or exploring minimally invasive alternatives, patients seeking rejuvenation find Korea a destination that promises not just transformations but a fresh lease on aesthetics and confidence. With the right clinic and specialist, the journey to a revitalized appearance can be both fulfilling and transformative.
