Korean surgeons increasingly work with diverse ethnic backgrounds. Here's what non-Korean patients should know.

Growing International Patient Base

Common Origins

  • Southeast Asian countries
  • China and Japan
  • Middle Eastern countries
  • Western countries
  • African nations

Ethnic Considerations

Skin Type

  • Darker skin: Scarring tendencies
  • Keloid risk assessment
  • Pigmentation concerns
  • Healing patterns

Anatomy

  • Bone structure differences
  • Skin thickness variations
  • Cartilage characteristics
  • Nasal anatomy differences

Surgeon Experience

Questions to Ask

  • Experience with your ethnicity
  • Before/afters of similar patients
  • Understanding of your aesthetic goals
  • Technique modifications needed

Communication

Cultural Understanding

  • Discuss your beauty standards
  • What looks good in your culture
  • Avoid Korean-centric recommendations
  • Maintain ethnic characteristics if desired

Common Concerns

Western Patients

  • May want different nose shape
  • Eye surgery less common need
  • Body procedures similar

Middle Eastern Patients

  • Rhinoplasty popular (different anatomy)
  • Skin quality considerations

Southeast Asian

  • Similar to Korean aesthetics often
  • Some anatomical differences

Choosing Your Surgeon

  • Look for diverse patient portfolio
  • Experience matters
  • Understanding of your goals
  • Not pushing Korean aesthetics