Key Insights
Dual-Specialty System
Secret Plastic Surgery Clinic operates on a collaborative model between Plastic Surgery (Dr. Song Seung-wook) and Dermatology (Dr. Song Seung-hyun), offering a "Total Beauty Care" service that integrates surgical and non-surgical aesthetic solutions.
Dr. Song's Specialization
Contrary to common misconceptions, Dr. Song Seung-hyun is a Dermatologist, not a Plastic Surgeon. He specializes in anti-aging, lifting (Ulthera, Thermage), and skin regeneration, serving as the Representative Director of the Dermatology division.
Reputation & Philosophy
The clinic maintains a high reputation (approx. 9.2–9.4/10 on major platforms) for emphasizing "natural beauty" and safety. Dr. Song is noted for his "anatomical approach" to laser lifting, aiming to minimize side effects like cheek hollowing.
Digital Presence
Dr. Song actively communicates through his YouTube channel "DermaSong," providing medical information and debunking myths, which contributes significantly to the clinic's transparency and patient trust.
Dr. Song Seung-hyun: Representative Director Profile
Academic Background & Credentials
- Education: Medical Degree (M.D.) and Master's from Yeungnam University College of Medicine.
- Board Certification: Board-certified Dermatologist in South Korea, demonstrating rigorous training and expertise.
Professional Career
- Academic Appointments: Adjunct Professor at Yeungnam University College of Medicine.
- Clinical Leadership:
- Former Head of Dermatology at Jungang Hospital.
- Former Director at Rose Dermatology Clinic.
- Former Director at Jamsil Hong Dermatology Clinic.
Academic Memberships & Research
- Member of the Korean Dermatological Association.
- Member of the Association of Korean Dermatologists.
- Member of the Korean Society for Clinical Therapeutic Dermatology.
- Member of the Korean Society for Anti-Aging Dermatology.
- Member of the Korean Society for Acne Research and the Korean Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery.
Media & Public Communication
Dr. Song is a prominent figure in the digital health space, operating the YouTube channel "DermaSong (더마쏭)". Through this channel, he provides accessible medical education, discusses procedure efficacy and side effects, and engages with patients to demystify dermatological treatments, enhancing transparency and trust.
Institutional Overview
Location & Infrastructure
- Address: 4th Floor, Fine Tower, 372 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
- Accessibility: Strategically located immediately adjacent to Gangnam Station (Line 2 and Shinbundang Line), near Exits 3 and 4, ensuring high accessibility.
- Facilities: Spans approx. 398 sq meters, designed for "Total Beauty Care" with specialized consultation rooms, operating theaters, and dedicated laser/treatment rooms.
Philosophy & Organizational Structure
- Core Philosophy: Emphasis on "natural beauty," safety, and an "anatomical approach" to minimize side effects.
- Dual-Director System: A defining characteristic ensuring specialized oversight.
- Plastic Surgery Division: Led by Rep. Director Song Seung-wook (board-certified plastic surgeon).
- Dermatology Division: Led by Rep. Director Song Seung-hyun (board-certified dermatologist).
- Continuum of Care: Offers a full spectrum from surgical reconstruction to non-invasive skin rejuvenation and post-surgical management.
Clinical Specializations & Methodologies
Core Competencies: Lifting & Anti-Aging
- Ultherapy (Ulthera): HIFU to SMAS layer. Emphasizes "design" based on anatomical knowledge to prevent "cheek hollowing." Customized energy and shot count.
- Thermage FLX: RF treatment targeting dermis for collagen. Recommended for thin skin, fine lines, lack of elasticity. Uses protocols for pain management.
- Trinity Liftoning: Triple-wavelength diode laser. 3 modes (Liftoning, Stack, D-Stack) with 3-stage contact cooling for reduced pain and downtime.
Skin Quality & Disease Treatment
- Pigmentation: Treatment of melasma, freckles, and blemishes using toning lasers.
- Acne and Scarring: Comprehensive management of active acne and post-acne scarring.
- Skin Boosters: Administration of injectable treatments to improve hydration and skin barrier function.
The "Collaborative" Advantage
- Post-Operative Care: Patients undergoing surgery can receive specialized skin management from Dr. Song Seung-hyun for accelerated recovery and enhanced results.
- Combined Protocols: Offers protocols that combine surgical interventions (e.g., buccal fat removal) with dermatological lifting (e.g., InMode or Ulthera) for optimal contouring.
- Ensures a higher standard of care for skin complications, laser treatments, and scar management.
Market Reputation & Patient Sentiment
Positive Feedback
- Natural Results: Consistently praised for subtle enhancements that do not appear over-treated.
- Detailed Counseling: Dr. Song is noted for thorough explanations and honest advice, even recommending against unnecessary procedures.
- Pain Management: Effective pain control during lifting procedures (Ulthera/Thermage) is frequently highlighted.
- High Ratings: Approx. 9.4/10 on Gangnam Unni (over 2,900 reviews), Dr. Song specifically 9.2/10 (over 160 reviews).
Considerations & Safety
- Wait Times: Due to popularity, some patients note longer waiting periods.
- Cost: Premium procedures place the clinic in the mid-to-high price range.
- Safety Protocols: Strict "Real Name System" (1:1 responsible doctor), equipped with emergency response systems.
- Medical Accident Record: No specific, confirmed reports of major medical accidents directly attributed to Secret Plastic Surgery Clinic or Dr. Song Seung-hyun in available research.
Conclusion: A Leader in Aesthetic Dermatology
Secret Plastic Surgery Clinic, particularly under the dermatological leadership of Dr. Song Seung-hyun, represents a sophisticated model of aesthetic medical care in South Korea. Dr. Song distinguishes himself not merely as a laser operator, but as a board-certified specialist who applies rigorous anatomical principles to anti-aging procedures.
The clinic's strength lies in its dual-specialty collaboration, high safety standards (1:1 responsible doctor system), and a reputation for natural results. For patients seeking dermatological interventions—specifically high-end lifting and anti-aging treatments—Dr. Song Seung-hyun appears to be a highly qualified and well-regarded choice within the Korean medical landscape.