Key Points Overview
Specialization
A specialized institution focusing exclusively on **eye surgery** (blepharoplasty) and **anti-aging lifting** procedures in Apgujeong, Seoul.
Leadership
Led by **Dr. Ko Han-woong**, a board-certified plastic surgeon with approximately 20 years of clinical experience and a Ph.D. from Korea University.
Signature Procedures
Renowned for its **"Volume-up Lower Blepharoplasty"** and **"Lifting Lower Blepharoplasty,"** addressing under-eye aging by combining fat repositioning with mid-face lifting.
Reputation
Known for detailed, honest consultations and a conservative approach prioritizing safety and natural results, maintaining high ratings on major Korean aesthetic surgery platforms.
Hospital Profile & Philosophy
Institutional Identity & Philosophy
Hambak Eye Plastic Surgery Clinic (함박눈성형외과의원) derives its name "Hambak" (reminiscent of "Hambak Snow" or large snowflakes, implying a broad, bright appearance) to symbolize the aesthetic goal of creating bright and youthful eyes. The clinic's core operational philosophy is encapsulated in the slogan: "The moment you meet Hambak, there is no second failure", indicating a strong clinical emphasis on **revision surgeries** and a commitment to achieving permanent or long-lasting results.
The clinic operates under a boutique model, allowing for a private and focused patient experience, dedicated solely to periorbital rejuvenation and facial lifting.
Location & Operational Details
Strategically situated in the heart of Seoul's plastic surgery hub, Apgujeong, making it highly accessible to both local and international patients.
- Address: Room 301, 3rd Floor, Nasa Building, 7 Nonhyeon-ro 175-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
- Accessibility: Approximately 5 minutes by foot from Apgujeong Station (Exit 5).
- Facility Scale: Occupies approximately 137 square meters, consistent with its boutique operational model.
- Diagnostic Equipment: Utilizes **ultrasound diagnostics** during consultations for precise mapping of orbital fat pads and anatomical structures.
- Safety Systems: Maintains an emergency response system, dedicated recovery area, and highlights the presence of anesthesiology specialists.
- Operating Hours: Weekdays: 09:00/09:30 – 18:30, Saturdays: 09:00/09:30 – 16:00, Sundays/Holidays: Closed.
Representative Director: Dr. Ko Han-woong
"The clinical reputation of Hambak is inextricably linked to the personal brand and expertise of Dr. Ko Han-woong."
Academic Background & Credentials
- Graduated from **Korea University College of Medicine**, where he also completed his internship and residency.
- Holds a **Ph.D. in Plastic Surgery** from the Graduate School of Korea University (2006).
- Obtained board certification as a Specialist in Plastic Surgery in 2004.
- Serves as an **Adjunct Professor** at Korea University College of Medicine (appointed for terms including 2021–2023).
Professional Career (~20 years)
- Former Director, **Best Plastic Surgery Clinic**.
- Former Director (Head of Eye Plastic Surgery & Anti-Aging Center), **Migo Plastic Surgery Clinic** (documented around 2018–2020).
- Current Representative Director, **Hambak Eye Plastic Surgery Clinic** (opened circa 2020).
Academic & Professional Affiliations
Domestic Affiliations:
- Planning Director, Korean Association of Plastic Surgeons (KAPS).
- Member, Eye Plastic Surgery Research Society of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (KSPRS).
- Education and Research Committee Member, KSPRS.
International Affiliations:
- Member, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).
- Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Clinical Specializations & Major Procedures
Hambak Clinic distinguishes itself by rejecting the "department store" model of plastic surgery and focusing strictly on the periorbital region and facial lifting.
Lower Blepharoplasty (Lower Eyelid Surgery)
Volume-up Lower Blepharoplasty (볼륨업 하안검)
Focuses on **repositioning orbital fat** to fill the tear trough while simultaneously preserving or creating "aegyo-sal" to maintain a youthful appearance. Target: Patients with protruding eye bags, dark circles, and sunken tear troughs.
Lifting Lower Blepharoplasty (리프팅 하안검)
An advanced procedure that combines lower blepharoplasty with a **mid-face lift**. It addresses not just eye bags but also the drooping of the anterior cheek (SOOF layer) and "Indian band," anchoring mid-face tissues for a lifting effect.
Upper Eyelid & Brow Surgery
Sub-brow Lift (눈썹하 거상술)
A procedure to remove sagging skin beneath the eyebrows. This is preferred for middle-aged patients to avoid the "surprised" look or changing the patient's original impression that can occur with standard upper blepharoplasty.
Ptosis Correction
Both incisional and non-incisional methods are used to correct sleepy-looking eyes by tightening the levator muscle.
Anti-Aging & Lifting
Endoscopic Forehead Lift (내시경 이마거상)
Uses an endoscope to minimize incisions within the hairline, utilizing **Endotine** devices for fixation. Often recommended in conjunction with upper eyelid surgery for brow ptosis.
Mid-face and Facelifts
The clinic performs focused lifting procedures to address nasolabial folds and jowls, often integrated with eye surgery for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Revision Surgery
Complex Re-operations
A significant portion of the clinic's practice is dedicated to **revision cases**. Dr. Ko is noted for handling complex cases such as correcting "sausage eyes," fixing ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid), and reconstructing lower eyelid volume after excessive fat removal.
Market Reputation & Patient Sentiment
Qualitative Strengths (Positive Feedback)
- Detailed Consultations: A recurring theme in reviews is the thoroughness of Dr. Ko's consultations. Patients report he uses ultrasound to explain anatomical conditions objectively and provides honest assessments, often advising against unnecessary procedures.
- Natural Aesthetics: The clinic is praised for avoiding the "over-operated" look. Reviews highlight successful outcomes in revision surgeries where previous unnatural results were corrected to look more harmonious.
- Post-Operative Care: The clinic offers a generous warranty period (A/S) of 1 to 2 years, and patients appreciate the follow-up care and the accessibility of the medical team during recovery.
Quantitative Metrics: High ratings on aggregator apps (e.g., 9.9/10 on Gangnam Unni, 9.3/10 for Dr. Ko individually).
Areas of Critique & Limitations (Considerations)
- Wait Times: Due to the detailed nature of consultations and the boutique size of the clinic, some patients have noted wait times even with appointments.
- Conservative Approach: While generally seen as a strength, some patients seeking dramatic, "flashy" changes might find Dr. Ko's conservative, safety-first approach less aligned with their desires.
- Skepticism of App Reviews: As with all Korean plastic surgery clinics, there is a general consumer awareness regarding the potential for incentivized reviews. However, "Sungyesa" (a platform known for stricter verification) contains detailed, photo-less reviews that corroborate the clinic's reputation for technical skill in revision cases.
Conclusion
Hambak Eye Plastic Surgery Clinic occupies a specialized niche in the South Korean medical aesthetic market. Under the leadership of **Dr. Ko Han-woong**, the clinic has established a brand identity centered on **expertise in periorbital rejuvenation** and **revision surgery**.
Distinctive Features:
1. Academic Pedigree
Dr. Ko's background as a Ph.D. and Adjunct Professor at Korea University, combined with his leadership roles in major medical societies, lends significant credibility to the practice.
2. Technical Focus
The "Volume-up" and "Lifting" variations of lower blepharoplasty demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of facial aging, moving beyond simple fat removal to structural restoration.
3. Patient-Centric Ethics
The emphasis on ultrasound diagnostics and the "No second failure" philosophy suggests a commitment to precision and long-term patient satisfaction over high-volume turnover.
For patients seeking eye surgery—particularly middle-aged individuals requiring lower blepharoplasty or those needing complex revision work—Hambak represents a tier of clinics that prioritize anatomical integrity and natural outcomes. While it may not cater to those seeking low-cost, factory-style surgery, its reputation suggests it is a primary candidate for patients valuing safety and specialized expertise.