If you’ve been researching plastic surgery in South Korea, there’s a high chance you’ve come across the name Banobagi. Known for its high-end facilities and wide range of cosmetic procedures, Banobagi Plastic Surgery Clinic has become a go-to choice not just for locals but for international patients from all over the world.
But is Banobagi the right clinic for you? If you’re coming from overseas, there’s more to consider than just surgical skill. From language support and consultation style to aftercare and transparency, this review covers what it’s actually like for foreigners to experience Banobagi in Korea.
Location and First Impressions
Banobagi is located in the Gangnam district of Seoul—a bustling area known as the heart of Korea’s medical beauty industry. From the moment you walk into the clinic, the atmosphere feels more like a luxury hotel than a medical facility. The interior is clean, modern, and calming, with separate floors for different types of procedures.
For foreigners, the convenience of being in Gangnam is a major plus. Hotels, cafés, pharmacies, and even post-op recovery guesthouses are just steps away. If you’re staying for 10–14 days after your procedure, you’ll appreciate how comfortable and accessible this location is.
Consultation Experience for International Patients
One of the most common concerns among foreign patients is communication. Banobagi offers English-speaking coordinators who are assigned to guide you from consultation to aftercare. During your initial appointment, you’ll likely meet both a coordinator and your surgeon.
Expect the consultation to be efficient. Korean clinics, including Banobagi, often lean toward a “medical-first” approach rather than a slow, overly detailed discussion. That said, the surgeons tend to be honest about what’s possible and what isn’t, and you can always ask more questions or request extra time.
Patients who take the time to prepare reference photos or have a clear explanation of what they want tend to have better consultation experiences.
Procedures Popular Among Foreigners
Banobagi specializes in a broad range of procedures, but some are especially popular among international patients.
Facial Contouring: Jaw reduction, cheekbone shaving, and chin surgeries are often performed together for a more balanced facial profile. These are invasive procedures with a recovery period of two weeks or more.
Rhinoplasty: Nose surgeries at Banobagi focus on achieving natural results, with special attention to maintaining facial harmony rather than overemphasizing Western ideals.
Eyelid Surgery: This includes double eyelid surgery and ptosis correction. The clinic is experienced in tailoring these procedures for various ethnic backgrounds.
Anti-Aging Procedures: Thread lifting, SMAS lifting, and fat grafting are all common among patients in their 30s and 40s looking for a rejuvenated appearance.
What sets Banobagi apart is its multi-specialist system. Surgeons specialize in very specific areas (e.g., nose only, jaw only), which adds a layer of precision and safety.
What Recovery Is Like at Banobagi
Post-surgery care is a major part of the experience, especially if you’re flying in from abroad. Banobagi provides post-op treatments such as swelling management, stitch removal, and medical checks. Most patients are required to stay in Korea for at least 7 to 14 days, depending on the procedure.
There are also deswelling care options like laser treatments, ice masks, and special tonics. These services are usually built into your surgery package, but always confirm ahead of time.
If you’re worried about being alone during recovery, you’re not the only one. Many patients book hotels within walking distance or use guesthouses designed specifically for post-op recovery.
What Patients Are Saying (Summarized, No Source Names)
Feedback from international patients varies slightly depending on the procedure, but several themes come up repeatedly:
The facility is extremely clean and organized.
Surgeons tend to aim for natural results rather than dramatic transformations.
Consultation times are sometimes short, so prepare your questions in advance.
Most staff are polite, but English-speaking ability varies between departments.
Some patients report excellent healing and are happy with their final appearance even after swelling has gone down.
Others wish they had stayed longer for follow-ups or had more time to discuss expectations.
Banobagi does have a reputation for being on the premium end in terms of price, but many say the results and safety standards make the extra cost worth it.
Price Expectations and What’s Included
Banobagi is not the cheapest clinic in Korea. Prices are on the higher side, especially for complex facial surgeries. However, most quotes for foreigners include:
The surgery itself
Doctor’s fees
Anesthesia
Basic medication
Follow-up treatments like de-swelling care and stitch removal
English-speaking coordination support
You’ll likely need to pay a deposit when you confirm the surgery, and the remaining balance on the day of the operation. Some clinics offer tax refund support at the airport as well.
Make sure to confirm what’s included in your quote to avoid unexpected charges. Also, be clear if you’re combining surgeries, as recovery time and care schedules may be different.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Book your hotel near Banobagi for easy access to follow-ups.
Stay for at least 10 days post-surgery to allow time for healing.
Write down your questions before consultation day.
Prepare reference photos if you’re looking for a specific aesthetic.
Bring someone with you if possible, especially for major procedures.
Don’t rush the process—give yourself time to recover fully before flying home.
Should You Choose Banobagi?
If you’re looking for a clinic that offers high-end service, natural-looking results, and a track record with international patients, Banobagi is a solid choice. It may not be the cheapest option, and it may not be the warmest or most hand-holding experience compared to Western clinics, but it is professional, consistent, and focused on outcomes.
For foreigners especially, the structure and support Banobagi offers—along with its location in the heart of Gangnam—make it a strong contender among Korea’s top cosmetic surgery providers.
Have questions about recovery timelines, procedure combinations, or how to book a virtual consultation with a coordinator? I can help you prepare before you even board your flight.