Analysis Report

MD Clinic Korea

Dr. Lee Sang-dal, Representative Director, In-depth Analysis

Breast Specialist Safety-First One-Stop Care

Key Insights

Specialized Focus

MD Clinic exclusively focuses on breast surgery (augmentation, reduction, reconstruction, revision) within a "One-Stop" care system that integrates aesthetic surgery with breast cancer screening.

Expert Leadership

Led by Dr. Lee Sang-dal, a General Surgeon specializing in breast and endocrine surgery. His training at Samsung Medical Center and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center ensures both oncological safety and aesthetic outcomes.

Innovative Philosophy

The clinic prioritizes "Bloodless Breast Surgery" and pain management through intercostal nerve blocks. Dr. Lee advocates for safety over excessive enlargement, using tissue-preserving methods like "Preserva."

Academic Authority

Dr. Lee holds significant positions, including Vice President of the Korean Breast Cancer Society (KBCS) and President of the Korean Association of Breast and Thyroid Surgeons, underscoring his expertise and credibility.

Dr. Lee Sang-dal: Representative Director

Dr. Lee Sang-dal

Dr. Lee Sang-dal

Specialist in Breast and Endocrine Surgery

Education & Training

  • Medical Degree, Master's, & Ph.D. from Korea University College of Medicine
  • Certified Specialist in General Surgery, Korea University Medical Center
  • Fellowship in Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Samsung Medical Center
  • Visiting Fellow/Researcher in Breast & Plastic Surgery, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (NY)
  • Training in Plastic Surgery, New York University (NYU) Medical Center

Academic & Professional Leadership

  • Vice President, Korean Breast Cancer Society (KBCS)
  • President, Korean Association of Breast and Thyroid Surgeons
  • President, Korean Society of Breast Surgery Research
  • Adjunct Professor at Korea University Medical Center & Samsung Medical Center

Surgical Philosophy & Media Presence

Dr. Lee's philosophy, "Healthy and Beautiful Breasts," emphasizes that aesthetic improvement should never compromise breast health. He critically addresses risky procedures like unverified fillers.

He has co-authored "Women's Clinic Best Doctors 15" and was featured in "Korean Masters of Cosmetic Surgery 20," actively educating both medical professionals and the public.

Hospital Information

Establishment & Location

Founded in 2001, MD Clinic has over two decades of experience in the competitive Gangnam medical district. It occupies floors 3-8 of the MD Breast Surgery Center Building in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, a prime location for medical tourism.

Address:

MD Breast Surgery Center Building, 3F-8F, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Core Philosophy: The "One-Stop" System

MD Clinic is defined by its "One-Stop" medical system, integrating aesthetic breast surgery with comprehensive breast health management. This includes a dedicated Breast Examination Center for mammography, ultrasonography, and biopsies (Mammotome/Bexcore), ensuring thorough screening and safety.

  • Emphasis on "Bloodless Breast Surgery" for minimal pain and faster recovery.
  • Pain management via intercostal nerve blocks during surgery.
  • Full-time anesthesiologists for paramount surgical safety.
  • "Clean room" system to prevent infection.
  • "Lifetime AS (After-Service)" for long-term post-operative care and implant surveillance.

Clinical Specialization & Major Procedures

Breast Augmentation

  • Implants: FDA/KFDA-approved (Motiva, Mentor Xtra, Sebbin).
  • Techniques: Full HD Endoscopic Surgery, Dual Plane, Preserva Method for tissue preservation.

Reduction & Mastopexy

  • Complex tissue handling for functional and aesthetic outcomes.
  • Focus on preserving nipple sensation and breastfeeding capability.

Reconstruction & Revision

  • Breast reconstruction for mastectomy patients.
  • Revision surgery for complications (capsular contracture, implant rupture, asymmetry).

Breast Examination & Tumor Removal

  • In-house Breast Examination Center for pre-operative screening.
  • Minimally invasive biopsies/excisions (Mammotome/Bexcore) for benign lumps.

Reputation Analysis

✓ Positive Factors

  • High Ratings: Exceptional 9.9/10 on Gangnam Unni (Customer Evaluation Excellent Hospital).
  • Safety-First Approach: Dr. Lee's conservative stance, honesty about limitations, and advice against risky procedures are highly valued.
  • Integrated Screening: The "One-Stop" system with in-house breast cancer screening provides significant confidence.
  • Pain Management: Intercostal nerve block is frequently praised for making recovery manageable.
  • Operational History & Safety: Over two decades in operation with full-time anesthesiologists underscores commitment to safety.

⚠ Considerations

  • Nuanced Feedback: While positive, Sungyesa provides a more grounded 3.5/5 rating, reflecting diverse patient experiences including cost or specific aesthetic preferences.
  • Premium Pricing: The specialized "One-Stop" system and director's extensive credentials come with premium pricing (e.g., Motiva ergonomics ~11.55M KRW, revision up to ~14.3M KRW).
  • Specialized Focus: Patients seeking a broader range of plastic surgery procedures beyond breast might look elsewhere.

Comprehensive Conclusion

MD Clinic (MD Surgery Clinic) distinguishes itself in the highly competitive South Korean plastic surgery market by adhering to a medical, rather than purely commercial, model of care.

Dr. Lee Sang-dal's background as a university hospital professor and oncological surgeon provides a layer of trust that appeals to patients prioritizing safety and long-term health alongside aesthetic improvement.

Distinctive Features

Medical Pedigree

Leadership by a General Surgeon/Oncologist ensures deep understanding beyond aesthetics.

Integrated Care

In-house Breast Examination Center provides an immediate diagnostic and screening safety net.

Technical Rigor

"Bloodless" techniques and nerve blocks address patient fears of complications and pain.

Academic Authority

Dr. Lee's high-ranking positions in national medical societies validate his expertise.

Final Verdict

For patients seeking breast surgery in Korea, MD Clinic represents a "Safety-First" option. It is particularly well-suited for individuals concerned about the medical implications of implants, those requiring revision surgery, or those who value a surgeon with a background in cancer reconstruction. While the pricing may reflect this premium level of specialization, the comprehensive "One-Stop" system and the director's extensive credentials provide a compelling value proposition for risk-averse patients.

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