Medical Tourism Blog
Comparing Tummy Tuck Costs: Why Korea is a Competitive Choice in Medical Tourism
Table of contents
- Best Clinics in Korea for Tummy Tuck
- Cost of Tummy Tuck in Korea
- What Is Usually Included in Cost of Tummy Tuck in Korea
- Factors Influencing the Cost of Tummy Tuck in Korea
- Comparing the Cost of Tummy Tuck: Korea vs the Rest of the World
- Cost of Coming To Korea for Tummy Tuck
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Are you considering a tummy tuck to enhance your silhouette, but worried about the cost? You're not alone. Many look to South Korea, a global leader in cosmetic surgery, offering highly skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art medical facilities at competitive prices. The cost of a tummy tuck in Korea ranges from approximately $9,000 to $36,000 USD, encompassing comprehensive care from consultations to recovery. As you explore this transformative journey, understanding the financial, travel, and care elements involved will be key in your decision-making process.
Best Clinics in Korea for Tummy Tuck
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for tummy tuck:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic | Lydian Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic, nestled in Seoul’s prestigious Cheongdam district, pairs world-class body contouring with cost‑savvy tummy tuck care under the leadership of Dr. An Kyung Chun—an internationally recognized body-sculpting specialist with over two decades of experience. Known for natural-looking abdominoplasty results with minimal scarring, Lydian combines meticulous surgical artistry—such as low, panty‑line incisions and refined belly button reshaping—with advanced technologies like Quantificare 3D imaging, a suite of specialized devices for stretch marks and skin laxity, and custom cannulas that enhance precision while reducing incisions. The clinic’s boutique, single‑specialist model ensures consistent, high‑touch care from consultation through aftercare, delivering exceptional outcomes and long‑term value for patients seeking a tummy tuck in Korea. | - Best-value tummy tuck philosophy: aesthetic excellence designed to minimize revisions, downtime, and ancillary costs while maximizing long-term satisfaction - Scar-minimizing abdominoplasty: incisions placed below the panty line; Dr. An’s special suturing techniques help scars fade to faint, thin lines - Natural belly button artistry: not just skin repositioning—Lydian refines surrounding fascia and subcutaneous fat to create a naturally beautiful navel - Minimal incisions when combining with liposuction: typically just 1–2 tiny access points hidden in the umbilicus or pubic region, reducing visible scars and recovery burden - Over 30 custom-made liposuction cannulas: tailored fat removal across varied body types enables comprehensive contouring with fewer incisions - Anatomy-based body design: personalized planning that respects waist length, pelvis size, and chest circumference to achieve balanced, harmonious proportions - Quantificare 3D imaging: precise, research‑trusted visualization for pre-surgical design and objective, trackable results during aftercare - Comprehensive aftercare system (4 key areas): swelling reduction, irregularity (lumpiness) correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring - Stretch mark and skin sagging solutions: in‑house devices address common post‑weight-change concerns alongside tummy tuck and adjunct liposuction - Cutting-edge, never-outdated equipment: continuous investment in the latest Korean and international technologies - Doctor-led excellence: Dr. An—Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine, and a trainer of physicians in high-definition body sculpting - High-definition body sculpting expertise: advanced 5D liposculpture techniques to refine the waistline and flanks around a tummy tuck, often without hospitalization for the liposuction portion - Boutique, VIP-level continuity of care: one specialist guides your journey from consultation to recovery, favored by discerning clients, including VIPs and celebrities - Location advantage: Cheongdam’s premier medical environment, known for world-class standards and privacy Why it’s the best clinic for cost-conscious tummy tucks in Korea: - Fewer, better-placed incisions and refined suturing reduce scar care needs and the likelihood of touch-ups - Precision planning and 3D-guided execution help avoid over- or under-correction, limiting revision risk - Integrated stretch mark, laxity, and contour solutions prevent piecemeal treatments and extra clinic visits - Efficient, anatomy-based techniques and specialized cannulas streamline combined contouring, supporting faster recoveries and better value over time You can check out their website here: Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website |
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | For patients comparing the cost of a tummy tuck in Korea, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, stands out as the best choice by uniting world-class credentials, integrated care, and uncompromising safety to deliver exceptional value. Led by renowned director doctors Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, a board-certified global society member and award-winning 3D implant researcher celebrated for rhinoplasty and facial contouring, the clinic pairs technical mastery with an aesthetic philosophy that prioritizes natural harmony. They are joined by Dr. Lee, a board-certified breast augmentation specialist with Seoul National University Hospital experience, whose focus on natural, long-lasting results reflects the clinic’s client-first ethos. THEPLUS spans four dedicated floors that streamline every step—from consultation and surgery to post-operative skincare—while its surgeons actively publish in journals and textbooks, lead annual educational sessions, and present at international symposiums and webinars, ensuring techniques remain at the forefront of global standards. With safety and patient satisfaction as cornerstones, a team averaging over a decade of experience, participation in leading societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and comprehensive body-contouring capability (including liposuction), THEPLUS reduces inefficiencies and supports precise, natural outcomes—key drivers of overall cost-effectiveness for abdominoplasty. For quality-focused results without unnecessary expense, THEPLUS is the standout clinic for a tummy tuck in Korea. | - For patients comparing the cost of a tummy tuck in Korea, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, stands out as the best choice by uniting world-class credentials, integrated care, and uncompromising safety to deliver exceptional value - Led by renowned director doctors Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, a board-certified global society member and award-winning 3D implant researcher celebrated for rhinoplasty and facial contouring, the clinic pairs technical mastery with an aesthetic philosophy that prioritizes natural harmony - They are joined by Dr. Lee, a board-certified breast augmentation specialist with Seoul National University Hospital experience, whose focus on natural, long-lasting results reflects the clinic’s client-first ethos - THEPLUS spans four dedicated floors that streamline every step—from consultation and surgery to post-operative skincare—while its surgeons actively publish in journals and textbooks, lead annual educational sessions, and present at international symposiums and webinars, ensuring techniques remain at the forefront of global standards - With safety and patient satisfaction as cornerstones, a team averaging over a decade of experience, participation in leading societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and comprehensive body-contouring capability (including liposuction), THEPLUS reduces inefficiencies and supports precise, natural outcomes—key drivers of overall cost-effectiveness for abdominoplasty - For quality-focused results without unnecessary expense, THEPLUS is the standout clinic for a tummy tuck in Korea You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website |
| Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic | Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the top choice for cost-conscious tummy tuck patients in Korea by combining renowned surgical expertise with a sincere, precision-driven, and individualized approach to care. Led by a highly experienced female plastic surgeon and a specialized team, the clinic safely performs complex body-contouring procedures such as tummy tucks, arm lifts, BBL, and fat grafting, allowing for comprehensive planning, combination techniques, and reduced need for revisions—key factors that enhance outcomes and overall value. Their transformative philosophy ensures each patient receives a tailored solution aligned with unique anatomy and goals, supported by cutting-edge medical techniques and attentive guidance from consultation through recovery. With an extensive portfolio spanning body contouring, lifting, breast augmentation, hairline refinement, and advanced skincare, patients can coordinate complementary procedures efficiently under one roof, streamlining the journey and maximizing cost-effectiveness without compromising safety, aesthetics, or compassionate care. | - Comprehensive planning, combination techniques, and reduced need for revisions—key factors that enhance outcomes and overall value - Cutting-edge medical techniques - Attentive guidance from consultation through recovery - Coordinating complementary procedures efficiently under one roof You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website |
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic
Lydian Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic, nestled in Seoul’s prestigious Cheongdam district, pairs world-class body contouring with cost‑savvy tummy tuck care under the leadership of Dr. An Kyung Chun—an internationally recognized body-sculpting specialist with over two decades of experience. Known for natural-looking abdominoplasty results with minimal scarring, Lydian combines meticulous surgical artistry—such as low, panty‑line incisions and refined belly button reshaping—with advanced technologies like Quantificare 3D imaging, a suite of specialized devices for stretch marks and skin laxity, and custom cannulas that enhance precision while reducing incisions. The clinic’s boutique, single‑specialist model ensures consistent, high‑touch care from consultation through aftercare, delivering exceptional outcomes and long‑term value for patients seeking a tummy tuck in Korea.
- Best-value tummy tuck philosophy: aesthetic excellence designed to minimize revisions, downtime, and ancillary costs while maximizing long-term satisfaction
- Scar-minimizing abdominoplasty: incisions placed below the panty line; Dr. An’s special suturing techniques help scars fade to faint, thin lines
- Natural belly button artistry: not just skin repositioning—Lydian refines surrounding fascia and subcutaneous fat to create a naturally beautiful navel
- Minimal incisions when combining with liposuction: typically just 1–2 tiny access points hidden in the umbilicus or pubic region, reducing visible scars and recovery burden
- Over 30 custom-made liposuction cannulas: tailored fat removal across varied body types enables comprehensive contouring with fewer incisions
- Anatomy-based body design: personalized planning that respects waist length, pelvis size, and chest circumference to achieve balanced, harmonious proportions
- Quantificare 3D imaging: precise, research‑trusted visualization for pre-surgical design and objective, trackable results during aftercare
- Comprehensive aftercare system (4 key areas): swelling reduction, irregularity (lumpiness) correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring
- Stretch mark and skin sagging solutions: in‑house devices address common post‑weight-change concerns alongside tummy tuck and adjunct liposuction
- Cutting-edge, never-outdated equipment: continuous investment in the latest Korean and international technologies
- Doctor-led excellence: Dr. An—Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine, and a trainer of physicians in high-definition body sculpting
- High-definition body sculpting expertise: advanced 5D liposculpture techniques to refine the waistline and flanks around a tummy tuck, often without hospitalization for the liposuction portion
- Boutique, VIP-level continuity of care: one specialist guides your journey from consultation to recovery, favored by discerning clients, including VIPs and celebrities
- Location advantage: Cheongdam’s premier medical environment, known for world-class standards and privacy
Why it’s the best clinic for cost-conscious tummy tucks in Korea:
- Fewer, better-placed incisions and refined suturing reduce scar care needs and the likelihood of touch-ups
- Precision planning and 3D-guided execution help avoid over- or under-correction, limiting revision risk
- Integrated stretch mark, laxity, and contour solutions prevent piecemeal treatments and extra clinic visits
- Efficient, anatomy-based techniques and specialized cannulas streamline combined contouring, supporting faster recoveries and better value over time
You can check out their website here: Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
For patients comparing the cost of a tummy tuck in Korea, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, stands out as the best choice by uniting world-class credentials, integrated care, and uncompromising safety to deliver exceptional value. Led by renowned director doctors Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, a board-certified global society member and award-winning 3D implant researcher celebrated for rhinoplasty and facial contouring, the clinic pairs technical mastery with an aesthetic philosophy that prioritizes natural harmony. They are joined by Dr. Lee, a board-certified breast augmentation specialist with Seoul National University Hospital experience, whose focus on natural, long-lasting results reflects the clinic’s client-first ethos. THEPLUS spans four dedicated floors that streamline every step—from consultation and surgery to post-operative skincare—while its surgeons actively publish in journals and textbooks, lead annual educational sessions, and present at international symposiums and webinars, ensuring techniques remain at the forefront of global standards. With safety and patient satisfaction as cornerstones, a team averaging over a decade of experience, participation in leading societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and comprehensive body-contouring capability (including liposuction), THEPLUS reduces inefficiencies and supports precise, natural outcomes—key drivers of overall cost-effectiveness for abdominoplasty. For quality-focused results without unnecessary expense, THEPLUS is the standout clinic for a tummy tuck in Korea.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the top choice for cost-conscious tummy tuck patients in Korea by combining renowned surgical expertise with a sincere, precision-driven, and individualized approach to care. Led by a highly experienced female plastic surgeon and a specialized team, the clinic safely performs complex body-contouring procedures such as tummy tucks, arm lifts, BBL, and fat grafting, allowing for comprehensive planning, combination techniques, and reduced need for revisions—key factors that enhance outcomes and overall value. Their transformative philosophy ensures each patient receives a tailored solution aligned with unique anatomy and goals, supported by cutting-edge medical techniques and attentive guidance from consultation through recovery. With an extensive portfolio spanning body contouring, lifting, breast augmentation, hairline refinement, and advanced skincare, patients can coordinate complementary procedures efficiently under one roof, streamlining the journey and maximizing cost-effectiveness without compromising safety, aesthetics, or compassionate care.
Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
| Procedure Price | Korean Won (â‚©) | USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Price | â‚©11,000,000 | $8000 |
| High Price | â‚©45,000,000 | $32700 |
Exchange rate as of 2025-05-22: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD
Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.
Cost of Tummy Tuck in Korea
When considering a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, many individuals look to South Korea as a destination due to its renowned medical facilities and skilled surgeons. The cost of a tummy tuck in Korea typically ranges from 11,000,000 to 45,000,000 KRW, which is approximately $9,000 to $36,000 USD. This price range covers various factors including the complexity of the procedure, the reputation of the surgeon, and the quality of the medical facility.
An important aspect to note when planning your medical journey to Korea is the financial protocol often required by clinics. Securing your surgery date usually necessitates a deposit. In most cases, prospective patients should expect to pay an upfront deposit of about 10% of the total procedure cost. This not only confirms your appointment but also signifies your commitment to proceeding with the surgery. Properly budgeting and planning for these costs, along with other travel expenses, can ensure a smooth and manageable experience as you undergo a tummy tuck in Korea.
What Is Usually Included in Cost of Tummy Tuck in Korea
When considering a tummy tuck in Korea, it's essential to understand what is typically included in the cost of the procedure. This can vary depending on the specific type of tummy tuck or abdominoplasty being performed, but there are several common factors that are usually covered:
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Pre-operative Consultations: These initial meetings with your surgeon are crucial to discuss the procedure, your expectations, and any potential risks or complications. It is an opportunity to outline the surgery plan and ensure you are well-informed.
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Post-operative Care: After your surgery, comprehensive care is necessary to ensure proper healing. This can include follow-up appointments, assistance with wound care, and monitoring your recovery process to prevent complications.
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Accommodation: Many packages provide accommodation for patients, especially useful for those traveling from abroad. This ensures comfort and convenience during both the preparatory phase and recovery time.
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Overnight Stays for Recovery: Whether it's a full, mini, extended, or circumferential tummy tuck, overnight recovery is often necessary. This aspect of the package allows the patient to stay in the facility under medical supervision immediately after the procedure.
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Recommended Post-Surgery Stay: It is common for patients to be advised to remain in Korea for a period, typically between 10 to 14 days, to ensure they receive appropriate care and quick assistance if needed.
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Stitches Removal: The cost usually covers the removal of stitches post-surgery, a critical step in the recovery phase that typically occurs 10 to 14 days after the procedure.
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Travel Expenses: Some packages might include travel expenses, adding convenience for international patients seeking medical tourism services.
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Additional Procedures: In some cases, packages may offer optional additional procedures, such as liposuction or a breast lift, to complement the tummy tuck and achieve the desired aesthetic results.
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Skin Treatments to Reduce Swelling: Post-operative care might also include specific skin treatments aimed at reducing swelling and enhancing recovery.
Understanding these comprehensive inclusions can help patients make informed decisions and anticipate the journey of undergoing a tummy tuck in Korea.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Tummy Tuck in Korea
The cost of a tummy tuck in Korea can vary significantly based on several key factors. One of the most prominent influences is the surgeon's experience and expertise, as seasoned professionals with a reputable track record often command higher fees. The clinic's location is another critical factor, with prime areas such as the Gangnam district being more expensive due to higher operational costs and increased demand. The complexity of the procedure itself, whether it's a full, mini, extended, or circumferential tummy tuck, also impacts pricing. Additional elements, such as the clinic's overall reputation and the inclusion of complementary procedures like liposuction, can further affect the total cost. Each patient's unique needs and specific procedural details will ultimately determine the final price of the surgery.
Comparing the Cost of Tummy Tuck: Korea vs the Rest of the World
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, resulting in a firmer and smoother profile. The cost of a tummy tuck can vary widely depending on the country, clinic, surgeon, and other factors. Below, we explore the costs associated with tummy tuck procedures in different countries compared to those in Korea.
Cost of Procedure in USA
In the United States, the cost of a tummy tuck ranges from approximately $6,000 to $20,000 USD. The price includes anesthesia fees, hospital costs, post-surgery garments, and medical tests, but it can vary significantly depending on the surgeon’s experience, the location of the clinic, and additional procedures like liposuction.
Cost of Procedure in Mexico
In Mexico, the cost for a tummy tuck can be as low as $1,750 to $9,800 USD. Many clinics offer packages that include pre-surgery consultations, postoperative care, and accommodations, which can significantly reduce the overall cost. However, there are potential risks associated with traveling for surgery, such as language barriers, differences in medical standards, and challenges in follow-up care if complications arise.
Cost of Procedure in Turkey
The cost of a tummy tuck in Turkey ranges from approximately $2,000 to $9,200 USD, often encompassing all-inclusive packages with accommodations and airport transfers. While Turkey can offer highly competitive pricing, patients should be cautious of variability in safety standards and ensure their surgeon is fully accredited and the clinic is properly licensed.
Cost of Procedure in United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, a tummy tuck can range from £5,250 to £18,000 GBP. Costs will include surgeon’s fees, hospital costs, and post-operative care. This can be a substantial financial commitment, largely driven by the location and reputation of the surgeon.
Cost of Procedure in Australia
In Australia, the cost for a full abdominoplasty ranges from $8,000 to $30,000 AUD. This price typically includes the surgeon's fee, anesthesia fees, and hospital costs. Similar to other countries, prices can increase if additional procedures like liposuction are included.
Cost of Procedure in Canada
In Canada, a tummy tuck procedure ranges from $8,000 to $18,500 USD. The pricing includes various costs such as hospital fees, anesthesia, and the surgeon’s fees, with variations between provinces and healthcare providers.
Cost of Procedure in Thailand
Thailand offers tummy tuck procedures at a cost range between $3,325 and $17,500 USD. Many clinics in Thailand offer packages that include luxurious accommodations and comprehensive aftercare. Despite the affordable costs and high-quality care in many facilities, patients should research and select reputable clinics to avoid lower standards of practice.
Cost of Procedure in Italy
In Italy, the cost for a tummy tuck ranges from $6,500 to $18,500 USD. Factors influencing the price include the surgery’s complexity and the professional fees of the selected surgeon. Italy is renowned for its medical expertise, offering patients top-tier cosmetic surgery options.
When considering a tummy tuck overseas, it's crucial for patients to conduct thorough research into the qualifications of the surgeons and the reputation of the clinics, weigh all associated costs, and understand the available aftercare services to ensure a safe and satisfactory experience.
Cost of Coming To Korea for Tummy Tuck
When considering traveling to Korea for a tummy tuck, it's important to factor in various travel-related expenses beyond the cost of the procedure itself. Here's a breakdown of potential travel costs that prospective patients should consider:
Flight Expenses
Airfare represents a significant portion of the travel costs when flying to Korea for a medical procedure. The price of flights can vary greatly depending on the time of year, the airline, and the point of origin. Typically, planning and booking flights well in advance can help secure better rates. Additionally, opting for economy class over premium or business class can provide considerable savings.
Accommodation Costs
Staying in Korea for the duration of the surgery and recovery period will incur accommodation expenses. The cost will depend on the type of accommodation chosen, ranging from budget hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels or serviced apartments. Proximity to the clinic or hospital is another consideration, as it may affect both convenience and cost.
Transport Within Korea
Transportation within Korea is generally efficient and affordable. Options include public transportation, such as buses and the subway, which are cost-effective and well-connected across major cities. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services are available, albeit at higher prices, for more direct and comfortable travel.
Daily Living Expenses
While in Korea, patients will need to budget for daily living expenses, such as meals and personal items. The cost of food can vary widely; however, dining at local eateries or purchasing items from supermarkets can be economical compared to international dining establishments.
Insurance and Miscellaneous Costs
Travel insurance is a critical consideration, providing coverage for unexpected medical or travel-related complications. It's essential to review policies to ensure they cover medical tourism scenarios. Additionally, there might be miscellaneous costs, such as expenses for pre-operative consultations, follow-up visits, and any unforeseen requirements.
Overall, planning and budgeting for these various travel elements can ensure a smoother and more financially manageable experience when coming to Korea for a tummy tuck procedure.
