Understanding the typical timeline from initial inquiry to surgery helps plan your Korean plastic surgery trip effectively.

Initial contact (weeks-months before): Email or KakaoTalk consultations with clinics. Share photos, describe goals, receive preliminary assessments and quotes. This stage is free and helps narrow down clinic choices.

Booking decision (1-3 months before): After comparing options, confirm your chosen clinic. Pay deposit (typically 10-30% of procedure cost). Book flights and accommodation.

Pre-surgery requirements: Some clinics require blood tests from your home country. Stop blood-thinning medications (including supplements like fish oil) 2 weeks before surgery. Arrange time off work.

Arrival in Korea (1-2 days before surgery): In-person consultation confirming surgical plan. Pre-operative testing at clinic. Final questions answered. Payment of remaining balance.

Surgery day: Arrive fasting if general anesthesia. Procedure duration varies (1 hour for eyelids to 8+ hours for comprehensive facial bone work). Post-surgery observation before release to recovery accommodation.

Recovery period (varies by procedure): Daily or every-other-day clinic visits for wound care and monitoring. Stitch removal typically 5-7 days post-surgery. Gradual activity resumption based on healing progress.

Departure clearance: Surgeon confirms you're safe to fly. Receive detailed aftercare instructions and emergency contact information.