Table of contents

• Best Clinics in Korea for Smas Facelift
• Cost of SMAS Facelift in Korea
• What Is Usually Included in Cost of SMAS Facelift in Korea
• Factors Influencing the Cost of SMAS Facelift in Korea
• Comparing the Cost of SMAS Facelift: Korea vs the Rest of the World
• Cost of Coming To Korea for SMAS Facelift

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

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Considering a transformative journey to enhance your appearance with a [SMAS facelift](/blog/smas-facelift-korea)? South Korea might just be the perfect destination, offering a blend of world-class medical expertise and competitive pricing. Known for its advanced technology and highly skilled plastic surgeons, Korea has become a hub for those seeking natural and lasting results in cosmetic procedures. As you explore the potential costs and inclusions of this popular facelift technique, understanding the financial landscape in Korea will help ensure a seamless experience without any unexpected surprises.

Best Clinics in Korea for Smas Facelift

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for smas facelift:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Four-floor, full-service center delivering care from consultation to post-operative skincare on Garosu-gil in Gangnam, Seoul; led by internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons who publish in scholarly journals, author textbooks, and teach at global symposia; combines academic rigor with meticulous, personalized communication; standout expertise in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, facial contouring, and comprehensive anti-aging procedures including facelift; prioritizes safety, natural aesthetics, and long-lasting results; end-to-end care under one roof; active academic credibility and continual innovation; safety-first standards; strong value for SMAS facelift seekers.	SMAS facelift; Rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty; Facial contouring; Thread lift; Facial fat grafting
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Located in Gangnam; standout choice in Korea for comparing cost and quality of a SMAS facelift; combines meticulous technique, top-tier safety, and proven expertise to deliver natural, long-lasting rejuvenation; analyzes areas and causes of facial sagging, dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues, then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS together and secures them vertically in the opposite direction of sagging to prevent unnatural cheekbone accentuation while achieving comprehensive tightening and durable results; premium clinic specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures; verified medical team with doctors averaging over 15 years of experience; direct surgeon consultations guiding each treatment; safety features include full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, 1:1 monitoring, cross-check emergency system, and full CCTV coverage; separate aftercare center for complete post-procedure support; recognized with 2022 Korea No.1 Award, 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, Outstanding Member of KSPRS, and certification from the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society.	SMAS dissection beneath SMAS layer; lifting of skin, fat, and SMAS together with vertical fixation; multi-layer tightening; SMAS facelift
SH Clinic	SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a multi-specialty center integrating stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery; ideal for patients comparing options for a SMAS-style facelift in Korea; Cosmetic Plastic Surgery department offers facelift procedures that lift and tighten deeper facial and neck layers with incisions along hairlines and natural folds; also provides minimally invasive options such as thread lifts, laser lifting, Botox, dermal fillers, and skin boosters; SH Stem Cell Center provides personalized treatment plans spanning facial rejuvenation and anti-aging; SH Gynecology Clinic delivers a full spectrum of women’s health services, including vaginal rejuvenation; integrated approach enables tailored, stepwise plans before and after facial surgery.	Facelift procedures with incisions along hairlines and natural folds; thread lifts; laser lifting; Botox; dermal fillers; skin boosters; Stem cell therapy integrated into rejuvenation

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Situated on Garosu-gil in Gangnam, Seoul, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is a four-floor, full-service center that delivers world-class care from consultation and surgery to post-operative skincare. Led by internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons who publish in scholarly journals, author textbooks, and teach at global symposia, the clinic combines academic rigor with meticulous, personalized communication. With standout expertise in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, facial contouring, and comprehensive anti-aging procedures including facelift, THE PLUS prioritizes safety, natural aesthetics, and long-lasting results—qualities that make it a premier destination for patients considering a SMAS facelift in Korea.

• Leadership you can trust: Dr. Jeong Jae Yong serves as President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; Dr. Kim Taek Kyun is a board-certified authority with awards for 3D implant research and a leading reputation in rhinoplasty and facial contouring; Dr. Lee is a board-certified breast specialist with top-tier experience including Seoul National University Hospital.
• Philosophy that suits SMAS facelift goals: Dr. Kim’s focus on harmonious facial balance and Dr. Jeong’s fusion of function and beauty ensure refreshed, natural-looking outcomes rather than overdone change.
• Deep facial anatomy expertise: Decades of work in rhinoplasty, revision, and facial bone surgery translate into precise, tissue-respecting techniques essential for high-quality SMAS facelift results.
• Comprehensive aging-face solutions: The team offers facelift, thread lift, and facial fat grafting to tailor multi-layer rejuvenation plans to each patient’s needs.
• End-to-end care under one roof: Four dedicated floors streamline the journey from consultation through surgery and post-op skincare, supporting consistency, safety, and convenience for local and international patients.
• Academic credibility and continual innovation: Surgeons at THE PLUS actively contribute to journals and textbooks (including Dr. Kim’s “Rebuilding Nose”) and lead regular educational sessions and webinars to stay at the forefront of advances.
• Safety-first standards: A highly experienced team with over a decade in practice, active involvement in major societies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and invitations for global presentations and live surgeries underscore stringent safety and quality.
• Strong value for SMAS facelift seekers: The clinic’s expert-led, integrated model is designed to maximize outcome quality and patient satisfaction—key for patients comparing cost and results when planning a SMAS facelift in Korea.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Located in Gangnam, MadeYoung Plastic Surgery is the standout choice in Korea for those comparing the cost and quality of a SMAS facelift, combining meticulous technique, top-tier safety, and proven expertise to deliver natural, long-lasting rejuvenation. After thoroughly analyzing the areas and causes of facial sagging, MadeYoung precisely dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues, then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS together and secures them vertically in the opposite direction of sagging—preventing unnatural cheekbone accentuation while achieving comprehensive tightening and durable results. As a premium clinic specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures, its verified medical team consists only of highly skilled doctors averaging over 15 years of experience, with direct surgeon consultations guiding each treatment. Safety is uncompromising, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, 1:1 dedicated monitoring, a cross-check emergency system, and full CCTV coverage for transparency. A separate aftercare center provides complete, systematic post-procedure support for a smooth recovery. Recognized for excellence with the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, and honored as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons with certification from the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society, MadeYoung offers the rare blend of refined technique, safety, and recognized quality that makes it the best clinic for a SMAS facelift in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

SH Clinic

SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a multi-specialty center that brings together stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery—an ideal setting for patients comparing options for a SMAS-style facelift in Korea. As a specialized medical center focusing on Stem Cell Therapy and Gynecology, the clinic integrates regenerative medicine with surgical aesthetics to support natural-looking facial rejuvenation and comprehensive patient care.

Within its Cosmetic Plastic Surgery department, SH Clinic offers facelift procedures that lift and tighten deeper facial and neck layers with incisions discreetly placed along hairlines and natural folds, alongside minimally invasive options such as thread lifts, laser lifting, Botox, dermal fillers, and skin boosters. The SH Stem Cell Center provides personalized treatment plans spanning facial rejuvenation and anti-aging, while the SH Gynecology Clinic delivers a full spectrum of women’s health services, including a wide range of vaginal rejuvenation options. This integrated approach enables tailored, stepwise plans before and after facial surgery.

You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website

Cost of SMAS Facelift in Korea

Korea has become a popular destination for medical tourism, particularly for cosmetic procedures such as the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) facelift. Among various facelift techniques, the SMAS facelift is known for its natural results and longer-lasting effects.

Based on recent data for procedures similar in complexity and scope to the SMAS facelift, such as the Deep Plane Facelift and Deep Plane Facelift with Neck Lift, we can provide a price estimate for these procedures in Korea.

Deep Plane Facelift

The cost for a Deep Plane Facelift ranges between 13,999 AUD and 30,000 AUD. Converted into Korean Won (KRW), the cost spans approximately:

• Lower Range: 13,999 AUD = 13,999 / 0.000688 = ~ 20,348,000 KRW
• Upper Range: 30,000 AUD = 30,000 / 0.000688 = ~ 43,605,000 KRW

When expressed in US Dollars (USD), the price range is approximately:

• Lower Range: 20,348,000 KRW * 0.000688 = ~ 14,000 USD
• Upper Range: 43,605,000 KRW * 0.000688 = ~ 30,000 USD

Deep Plane Facelift and Neck Lift

For a combined Deep Plane Facelift and Neck Lift, the cost is estimated at a fixed value of 14,999 AUD. This translates to approximately:

• In Korean Won: 14,999 AUD = 14,999 / 0.000688 = ~ 21,818,000 KRW

• In US Dollars: 21,818,000 KRW * 0.000688 = ~ 15,000 USD

Payment Considerations

When planning your SMAS facelift in Korea, it is typically required to secure the procedure with a deposit. The standard practice demands a 10% upfront deposit based on the total cost of the procedure. This ensures scheduling and commitment from both the patient and the surgical team.

This makes understanding the cost distribution and exchange rates crucial for international patients to plan accurately and avoid any financial surprises during their medical journey to Korea.

What Is Usually Included in Cost of SMAS Facelift in Korea

When considering a SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) facelift in Korea, it is important to understand what is typically included in the overall cost of the procedure. Korea is renowned for its advanced medical facilities and skilled plastic surgeons, making it a popular destination for those seeking facial rejuvenation procedures. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect to be included in the cost:

• Stay in South Korea: The cost typically includes a stay in South Korea for about 9 to 15 days. This duration is necessary to ensure adequate recovery time and for follow-up consultations with your surgeon to monitor your progress post-surgery.

• Combination Surgeries: If you're undergoing combination surgeries, such as a SMAS facelift along with other procedures like a neck lift, a longer stay might be required. This not only allows for proper recovery from multiple interventions but also ensures that any immediate post-surgical concerns can be managed effectively by your medical team.

• Hospitalization: When multiple surgeries are involved, hospitalization may be included in the cost. This accounts for not only the surgical procedure itself but also the immediate postoperative care, ensuring a safe recovery environment under the supervision of healthcare professionals.

These components are generally part of the package when you decide to have a SMAS facelift in Korea, making the country an appealing option for individuals looking for comprehensive care with their cosmetic enhancements. By understanding what is included, patients can better prepare for their journey and ensure they have the necessary resources for a comfortable and successful experience.

Factors Influencing the Cost of SMAS Facelift in Korea

The cost of a SMAS facelift in Korea can be influenced by several factors, such as the surgeon's experience, which plays a critical role in pricing. Highly experienced surgeons with a strong reputation may charge more for their expertise. Additionally, the location of the clinic can significantly impact costs, with clinics in major cities or affluent areas typically having higher prices due to increased overheads. Another factor is the techniques used during the procedure; advanced techniques or combining procedures, such as a deep plane facelift and neck lift, can increase the overall cost due to their complexity and the additional time required.

Comparing the Cost of SMAS Facelift: Korea vs the Rest of the World

When considering a SMAS facelift, cost and quality of care are crucial factors that influence a patient's choice of destination. Here's a detailed comparison of the SMAS facelift cost in several countries around the world, excluding Korea.

Cost of Procedure in the USA

In the USA, the cost of a SMAS or deep plane facelift can range significantly due to various factors such as the location, the surgeon's expertise, and additional healthcare procedures included. Prices for the SMAS/deep plane facelift hover between $16,500 and $52,000 USD, with cost considerations including overnight stays, add-on procedures, and health tests. The USA leads in delivering cutting-edge surgical techniques and post-operative care; however, this level of service comes at a high price.

Cost of Procedure in Mexico

Mexico is a popular destination for people seeking cosmetic surgery at a lower cost. While primarily known for other procedures like dental implants, which range from $5,000 to $7,000 USD, the SMAS facelift cost is generally lower than that in the USA. However, patients need to consider potential language barriers, differences in healthcare standards, and the need for thorough research on the credentials of healthcare providers to ensure safety.

Cost of Procedure in Turkey

Turkey is becoming increasingly well-known for medical tourism, including cosmetic surgery options like the SMAS facelift. Prices for a standard SMAS facelift can vary from €3,400 to €4,500 ($3,700 to $4,900 USD) and are influenced by factors like travel expenses, accommodation during recovery, and follow-up appointments. Although Turkey offers competitive prices and is known for skilled surgeons, it's essential to be aware of the potential dangers, such as communication issues and varying medical standards across clinics.

Cost of Procedure in Thailand

Thailand is another popular destination for affordable yet high-quality cosmetic surgery. The cost for a SMAS facelift in Thailand ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 USD, factoring in potential overnight stays and pre-surgery health tests. The country offers comprehensive care packages, but patients should be cautious of the associated risks, including potential for inadequate aftercare and the importance of choosing a reputable clinic.

Overall, while Korea is renowned for its advanced cosmetic surgery techniques and competitive pricing, patients have multiple options worldwide that they can consider. However, it’s crucial to balance cost against the potential risks and quality of care when making a decision.

Cost of Coming To Korea for SMAS Facelift

When considering a SMAS facelift in Korea, it's essential to factor in the travel costs that accompany such an endeavor. Known for its advanced medical technology and skilled plastic surgeons, South Korea has become a popular destination for cosmetic surgery. However, the expenses associated with traveling and staying in another country can add up. Here's a breakdown of the costs you may incur:

Airfare

The cost of airfare can vary significantly depending on your location, the time of year, and when you book your flight. On average, round-trip flights to Korea can range from $700 to $1,500 USD, with prices being higher during peak travel seasons such as summer and around major holidays. Booking in advance or being flexible with travel dates can help reduce costs.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Korea ranges from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. For a comfortable stay, many patients opt for mid-range accommodations, which typically cost around $50 to $150 per night. Given that patients may need to stay in Korea for at least a week to accommodate pre-surgery consultations, the procedure itself, and a recovery period, it's important to budget for this expense over several days.

Transportation

Transportation costs within Korea are generally reasonable. The efficient public transportation system includes subways and buses, and a one-way ticket generally costs about $1 to $2 USD. For convenience, especially post-surgery, you might prefer taxis, which start at approximately $3 USD and increase based on distance. Rideshare services like Kakao Taxi offer an alternative at competitive rates.

Meals and Daily Expenses

Daily expenses for meals and other necessities can vary but tend to be reasonable. Eating at local restaurants or buying groceries can keep costs to around $15 to $30 USD per day. If you prefer dining at international or high-end establishments, the cost can rise accordingly.

Medical Consultation and Follow-up Visits

The price of a SMAS facelift might include consultations and follow-up care, but it is crucial to confirm this with the clinic. If additional postoperative consultations are required, you may need to budget for these costs separately.

Travel Insurance

While travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for international trips. Insurance can cover unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, and other travel-related issues, providing peace of mind. The average cost of travel insurance is about 5% to 10% of your total trip cost.

When planning for a SMAS facelift in Korea, it's important to carefully consider these travel expenses to ensure a smooth and financially prepared journey.