Dermal Fillers in Korea: Complete Guide to Prices, Types & Results 2025
If you're looking to restore facial volume, enhance features, or smooth wrinkles instantly, dermal fillers in Korea offer an unbeatable combination of expertise, safety, and value. While filler treatments in Western countries can cost $600-$1,200 per syringe, Korean clinics offer premium hyaluronic acid fillers from $80 to $450—with some of the world's most skilled injectors performing the procedures.
With an astounding 91% of patients seeing immediate results and Korea's reputation as the aesthetic capital of Asia, Seoul has become the global destination for filler treatments. From subtle lip enhancement to dramatic facial contouring, Korean dermatologists and plastic surgeons have refined filler techniques to an art form, delivering natural-looking results that enhance rather than transform.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting dermal fillers in Korea—from understanding different filler brands and pricing structures to realistic expectations, treatment areas, safety considerations, and the crucial differences between legitimate and questionable filler practices.
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable gel-like substances that restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Unlike Botox, which relaxes muscles to prevent wrinkles, fillers physically "fill in" areas that have lost volume due to aging, add structure where desired, or smooth static wrinkles that are present even at rest.
How Fillers Work
The Science:
Most modern fillers use hyaluronic acid (HA)—a naturally occurring substance in our bodies that attracts and holds water molecules. When injected:
- Immediate volume addition: Gel physically fills the treated area
- Water attraction: HA draws moisture, creating plump, hydrated appearance
- Collagen stimulation: Some fillers trigger natural collagen production
- Gradual breakdown: Body slowly metabolizes filler over 6-24 months
- Natural elimination: Completely absorbed without residue
What Fillers Can Do:
- Restore lost facial volume (cheeks, temples, under eyes)
- Fill static wrinkles and folds (nasolabial folds, marionette lines)
- Enhance features (lips, chin, jawline, nose)
- Improve facial contours and proportions
- Provide instant, visible results
What Fillers Cannot Do:
- Stop dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement (use Botox)
- Tighten loose, sagging skin (try HIFU or thread lifts)
- Replace surgical procedures for severe volume loss
- Permanently solve aging concerns
Types of Dermal Fillers
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers:
- Most common and safest type
- Reversible with hyaluronidase enzyme
- Various viscosities for different areas
- Brands: Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero, Korean brands
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA):
- Radiesse brand
- Longer-lasting than HA
- Stimulates collagen production
- Best for deeper volume restoration
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA):
- Sculptra brand
- Gradual, subtle results
- Stimulates collagen over months
- Requires multiple sessions
PMMA (Permanent Fillers):
- Bellafill brand
- Permanent but carries higher risks
- Not commonly recommended in Korea
- Reversibility concerns
In Korea, HA fillers dominate due to safety profile and reversibility.
Popular Filler Brands in Korea
Korean clinics offer both international premium brands and high-quality domestic alternatives.
Premium International Brands
Juvederm (Allergan, USA):
- Ultra, Voluma, Volbella, Volift variations
- Smooth gel consistency
- Long-lasting (12-24 months depending on product)
- Premium pricing
- Most widely recognized globally
Restylane (Galderma, Sweden):
- Multiple product lines (Lyft, Refyne, Kysse, etc.)
- Versatile for various areas
- Proven track record
- Mid to premium pricing
Belotero (Merz, Germany):
- Very soft, integrates well with tissue
- Ideal for fine lines and tear troughs
- Natural-looking results
- Mid-range pricing
Radiesse (Merz, Germany):
- Calcium-based, not pure HA
- Immediate volume + collagen stimulation
- Longer duration (12-18 months)
- Best for deeper structural support
Korean Domestic Brands
Neuramis (Medytox, Korea):
- Most popular Korean brand
- Multiple viscosity options
- Excellent quality at lower price
- Widely trusted
Revolax (Across, Korea):
- Budget-friendly option
- Good results for price point
- Various product lines
- Growing international presence
Cleviel (Pharma Research, Korea):
- Mid-range Korean brand
- Good safety profile
- Natural-looking results
Belotero Korean editions:
- Manufactured for Korean market
- Similar to German version
- Competitive pricing
Dermal Filler Prices in Korea 2025
Filler pricing varies dramatically based on brand, quantity (measured in cc or ml), treatment area, and clinic reputation.
Average Pricing Overview
Overall average: ₩103,712 ($80) per treatment Price range: ₩85,987 - ₩118,144 ($66 - $91)
However, these averages can be misleading as pricing varies significantly by area and filler type.
Pricing by Treatment Area
Cheek Filler:
- Budget: ₩100,000 - ₩200,000 ($77 - $155) per syringe
- Mid-range: ₩200,000 - ₩350,000 ($155 - $270) per syringe
- Premium: ₩350,000 - ₩600,000 ($270 - $460) per syringe
- Average: ₩34,500 ($27) - this seems to be per area/unit pricing
- Typical need: 2-4 syringes for noticeable volume
Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines):
- Budget: ₩150,000 - ₩250,000 ($115 - $193) for both sides
- Mid-range: ₩250,000 - ₩400,000 ($193 - $310)
- Premium: ₩400,000 - ₩600,000 ($310 - $460)
- Typical need: 1-2 syringes
Lip Filler:
- Budget: ₩150,000 - ₩250,000 ($115 - $193) per syringe
- Mid-range: ₩250,000 - ₩350,000 ($193 - $270) per syringe
- Premium: ₩350,000 - ₩500,000 ($270 - $385) per syringe
- Average: ₩172,460 ($133)
- Range: ₩4,000 - ₩450,000 ($3 - $345)
- Typical need: 0.5-1.5 syringes
Under Eye (Tear Troughs):
- Budget: ₩200,000 - ₩300,000 ($155 - $230)
- Mid-range: ₩300,000 - ₩500,000 ($230 - $385)
- Premium: ₩500,000 - ₩800,000 ($385 - $615)
- High-risk area requiring expert injector
- Typical need: 0.5-1 syringe
Chin Augmentation:
- Budget: ₩200,000 - ₩350,000 ($155 - $270)
- Mid-range: ₩350,000 - ₩500,000 ($270 - $385)
- Premium: ₩500,000 - ₩700,000 ($385 - $540)
- Typical need: 1-2 syringes
Jawline Contouring:
- Budget: ₩300,000 - ₩500,000 ($230 - $385)
- Mid-range: ₩500,000 - ₩800,000 ($385 - $615)
- Premium: ₩800,000 - ₩1,200,000 ($615 - $920)
- Typical need: 2-4 syringes
Nose (Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty):
- Budget: ₩200,000 - ₩350,000 ($155 - $270)
- Mid-range: ₩350,000 - ₩500,000 ($270 - $385)
- Premium: ₩500,000 - ₩800,000 ($385 - $615)
- High-risk area
- Typical need: 0.5-1.5 syringes
Forehead:
- Budget: ₩300,000 - ₩500,000 ($230 - $385)
- Mid-range: ₩500,000 - ₩800,000 ($385 - $615)
- Premium: ₩800,000 - ₩1,200,000 ($615 - $920)
- Typical need: 2-4 syringes for volume
Temples:
- Budget: ₩250,000 - ₩400,000 ($193 - $310)
- Mid-range: ₩400,000 - ₩600,000 ($310 - $460)
- Premium: ₩600,000 - ₩900,000 ($460 - $690)
- Typical need: 2-3 syringes
Pricing by Filler Brand
Premium International Brands:
- Juvederm: ₩400,000 - ₩700,000 ($310 - $540) per syringe
- Restylane: ₩350,000 - ₩600,000 ($270 - $460) per syringe
- Belotero: ₩300,000 - ₩500,000 ($230 - $385) per syringe
Korean Brands:
- Neuramis: ₩200,000 - ₩400,000 ($155 - $310) per syringe
- Revolax: ₩150,000 - ₩300,000 ($115 - $230) per syringe
- Other Korean brands: ₩100,000 - ₩300,000 ($77 - $230) per syringe
Seoul Regional Pricing
Gangnam District:
- Korean brands: ₩250,000 - ₩400,000 ($193 - $310) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩450,000 - ₩700,000 ($345 - $540) per syringe
- Expert injectors, premium service
Apgujeong:
- Korean brands: ₩200,000 - ₩350,000 ($155 - $270) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩400,000 - ₩600,000 ($310 - $460) per syringe
- Celebrity-favorite clinics
Myeongdong:
- Korean brands: ₩180,000 - ₩320,000 ($140 - $245) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩350,000 - ₩550,000 ($270 - $425) per syringe
- Tourist-friendly, competitive
Hongdae/Sinchon:
- Korean brands: ₩150,000 - ₩280,000 ($115 - $215) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩300,000 - ₩500,000 ($230 - $385) per syringe
- Best value
What Affects Filler Pricing?
Brand and origin:
- US/European brands: Premium pricing
- Korean brands: More affordable, still high quality
- Counterfeit concerns with suspiciously low prices
Injector expertise:
- Celebrity doctors: +50-100% premium
- Board-certified specialists: Mid to high range
- General practitioners: Lower range
Clinic location:
- Gangnam: Highest prices
- Tourist areas: Mid-range
- Outer districts: Most affordable
Amount needed:
- Full face volume restoration: Multiple syringes (₩1-3 million total)
- Single area touch-up: One syringe (₩200,000-600,000)
Prices as of November 2025. Verify during consultation.
Expected Results and Timeline
Patient Satisfaction Data
Based on Korean patient surveys (13,080 filler patients):
When patients see results:
- 91% see immediate effects right after treatment
- 8% notice improvements within one week
- 1% observe results within one month
Immediate gratification: This is filler's biggest advantage—you leave the clinic with visible results.
Realistic Timeline
Immediately After (Day 1):
- Visible volume and enhancement
- Some swelling (normal, expected)
- Injection marks visible
- Results appear dramatic initially due to swelling
Days 1-3:
- Swelling peaks day 2-3
- Some bruising possible (30-40% of patients)
- Results look "overdone" temporarily
- Avoid mirror obsession—it will settle!
Days 4-7:
- Swelling significantly reduced (80-90%)
- Bruising fading
- Results looking more natural
- True outcome emerging
Weeks 2-4:
- This is your real result
- Swelling completely resolved
- Filler fully integrated with tissue
- Natural-looking enhancement
- Product has settled into final position
Months 1-6:
- Results remain stable
- Gradual softening may occur
- Some areas metabolize faster than others
- Most patients very satisfied during this period
Months 6-18:
- Gradual breakdown begins
- Speed depends on filler type, area, metabolism
- Some volume loss noticeable
- May want touch-up or repeat
Duration by Filler Type
Thin HA Fillers (lips, fine lines):
- Duration: 6-9 months
- Faster metabolism in mobile areas
Medium HA Fillers (nasolabial folds, marionette lines):
- Duration: 9-12 months
- Standard longevity
Thick HA Fillers (cheeks, chin, jawline):
- Duration: 12-18 months
- Longer-lasting structural support
Radiesse (CaHA):
- Duration: 12-18 months
- Collagen stimulation extends benefits
Sculptra (PLLA):
- Duration: 18-24 months
- Gradual, long-lasting collagen boost
Duration by Treatment Area
Fast Metabolism Areas:
- Lips: 6-9 months (constant movement)
- Around mouth: 8-10 months
- Under eyes: 9-12 months
Moderate Metabolism:
- Nasolabial folds: 10-12 months
- Cheeks: 12-15 months
- Chin: 12-15 months
Longer-Lasting Areas:
- Nose: 12-18 months (structural, less movement)
- Jawline: 12-18 months
- Temples: 12-18 months
Common Treatment Areas
Face: Volume Restoration
Cheeks (Mid-Face Volume):
- Purpose: Restore youthful fullness, lift nasolabial folds
- Amount needed: 2-4cc per side
- Results: Fuller cheeks, overall facial lift
- Duration: 12-18 months
- Popular in Korea for youthful V-line maintenance
Temples:
- Purpose: Fill hollowing, create smoother profile
- Amount needed: 2-3cc per side
- Results: Fuller, more youthful upper face
- Duration: 12-18 months
Under Eyes (Tear Troughs):
- Purpose: Reduce dark circles, smooth hollows
- Amount needed: 0.5-1cc per side
- Results: Fresher, less tired appearance
- Duration: 12-15 months
- High risk area—requires expert injector
Face: Lines and Wrinkles
Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines):
- Purpose: Soften deep lines from nose to mouth
- Amount needed: 1-2cc total
- Results: Smoother, younger appearance
- Duration: 10-12 months
- Very common treatment
Marionette Lines:
- Purpose: Reduce lines from mouth to chin
- Amount needed: 0.5-1cc per side
- Results: Less sad/angry resting appearance
- Duration: 10-12 months
Vertical Lip Lines (Smoker's Lines):
- Purpose: Smooth fine lines around mouth
- Amount needed: 0.5-1cc total
- Results: Smoother perioral area
- Duration: 8-10 months
Face: Feature Enhancement
Lips:
- Purpose: Add volume, define shape, enhance fullness
- Amount needed: 0.5-1.5cc total
- Results: Fuller, more defined lips
- Duration: 6-9 months
- Most requested by international visitors
Chin Augmentation:
- Purpose: Lengthen chin, improve profile, balance face
- Amount needed: 1-2cc
- Results: Stronger chin projection
- Duration: 12-15 months
Jawline Contouring:
- Purpose: Define jawline, create angular look
- Amount needed: 2-4cc per side
- Results: Sharper, more defined jaw
- Duration: 12-18 months
- Very popular in Korea
Non-Surgical Nose Job (Rhinoplasty):
- Purpose: Raise bridge, smooth bumps, lift tip
- Amount needed: 0.5-1.5cc
- Results: Improved nose profile
- Duration: 12-18 months
- High-risk procedure—vascular danger zone
Forehead Volumizing:
- Purpose: Round flat or hollow forehead
- Amount needed: 2-4cc
- Results: Fuller, more feminine forehead curve
- Duration: 12-18 months
Hands and Neck
Hand Rejuvenation:
- Purpose: Plump aging hands, reduce vein/tendon visibility
- Amount needed: 1-2cc per hand
- Results: Younger-looking hands
- Duration: 12-15 months
Neck Lines:
- Purpose: Smooth horizontal neck creases
- Amount needed: 1-2cc
- Results: Smoother neck
- Duration: 8-10 months
The Treatment Process
Consultation (15-30 minutes)
What happens:
- Facial analysis and aesthetic assessment
- Discussion of goals and desired outcome
- Face mapping and treatment planning
- Filler brand and amount recommendation
- Price quote (verify brand and quantity)
- Before photos
- Consent form review
Questions to ask:
- What brand and how much filler will you use?
- Can I see the sealed product before opening?
- What are the risks for my treatment area?
- How many syringes do I realistically need?
- What's your experience with this specific area?
- What's included in the price?
Red flags:
- Unwilling to show product packaging
- Pressure to treat multiple areas immediately
- Unclear about quantities
- No discussion of risks
- Promises that sound too good to be true
Treatment (30-60 minutes)
Step 1: Cleansing and Numbing (15-20 minutes)
- Makeup removal
- Antiseptic application
- Topical numbing cream applied
- Wait for anesthetic to take effect
Step 2: Marking (Optional)
- Some injectors mark injection points
- Ensures symmetry and proper placement
Step 3: Product Verification
- Reputable clinics show sealed product
- Check expiration date
- Verify brand matches what you're paying for
Step 4: Injection (10-30 minutes)
- Multiple injection points per area
- Injector may use:
- Serial puncture: Multiple small injections along line
- Linear threading: Injection while withdrawing needle
- Fanning: Multiple threads from single entry point
- Cross-hatching: Grid pattern for even distribution
- Continuous assessment and adjustment
- May massage area to distribute product
Step 5: Post-Treatment
- Ice application to reduce swelling
- Massage (if appropriate for area)
- Mirror check and final adjustments
- Post-care instructions
- After photos
Pain Level
During numbing cream application:
- No pain
During injection (with numbing):
- Pain level: 3-6/10 (mild to moderate discomfort)
- Varies by area:
- Least painful: Cheeks, chin
- Moderately painful: Nasolabial folds, lips
- Most painful: Nose, under eyes
- Described as: "Pressure," "deep ache," "stinging"
- Some fillers contain lidocaine (additional numbing)
After treatment:
- Pain level: 2-4/10 (mild to moderate tenderness)
- Soreness when touching treated area
- Manageable with over-the-counter pain relief
- Improves significantly after 24-48 hours
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post-Treatment (Hours 1-24)
What you'll experience:
- Moderate swelling (normal and expected)
- Visible bumps or lumps at injection sites
- Redness at injection points
- Tenderness to touch
- Possible bruising (30-40% of patients)
- Results look "overdone" temporarily
What to do:
- Apply ice packs (15 minutes on, 15 off)
- Sleep with head elevated
- Take Arnica (helps reduce bruising and swelling)
- Avoid touching or massaging (unless instructed)
- No makeup for 6-12 hours
Days 1-7: Peak Swelling Phase
What you'll experience:
- Swelling peaks day 2-3
- Bruising most visible days 2-5
- Some asymmetry (temporary, due to swelling)
- Lumps or bumps palpable
- Treated area feels firm
What to do:
- Continue ice application (first 48 hours)
- Gentle cleansing only
- Avoid heat exposure
- Take Arnica or bromelain supplements
- Avoid strenuous exercise (3-5 days)
- Sleep elevated
Days 7-14: Settlement Phase
What you'll experience:
- Swelling 80-90% resolved
- Bruising fading significantly
- Product settling into natural position
- True results emerging
- Most lumps softening
Minimal Downtime (with caveats)
Social downtime:
- Lips: 3-7 days (very noticeable swelling)
- Cheeks: 2-5 days (moderate swelling)
- Other areas: 1-3 days (minimal swelling)
- Bruising adds 5-10 days if it occurs
Physical restrictions:
- Avoid intense exercise: 24-48 hours
- No facial massage: 2 weeks
- No dental work: 2 weeks
- No other facial treatments: 2-4 weeks
Essential Aftercare Rules
First 24-48 hours:
- ❌ No vigorous exercise or sweating
- ❌ No alcohol (increases bruising/swelling)
- ❌ No lying flat (sleep elevated)
- ❌ No excessive heat (sauna, hot yoga, sun)
- ❌ No touching, rubbing, or massaging (unless instructed)
- ❌ No dental procedures
- ❌ No flying (controversial, some doctors recommend avoiding)
- ✓ Ice application frequently
- ✓ Arnica supplements
- ✓ Gentle with face
First 1-2 weeks:
- ❌ No aggressive facial treatments (lasers, peels, microneedling)
- ❌ No facial massage
- ❌ Avoid sleeping on face/side (sleep on back)
- ❌ No extreme facial expressions initially
- ✓ Gentle skincare only
- ✓ Attend follow-up if scheduled
First 2-4 weeks:
- ❌ Monitor for lumps, asymmetry, complications
- ❌ Don't panic about minor irregularities (give time to settle)
- ✓ Contact clinic if concerns arise
- ✓ Return for 2-week check if offered
When to Contact Your Provider Immediately
Emergency signs:
- Severe pain (beyond normal soreness)
- Skin discoloration (white, blue, or dark patches)
- Vision changes
- Severe swelling that worsens after 48 hours
- Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus)
- Asymmetry that doesn't improve
These could indicate vascular occlusion (blocked blood vessel)—a rare but serious complication requiring immediate treatment.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
Common (Expected)
- Swelling: Moderate to significant, peaks day 2-3, resolves in 1-2 weeks
- Bruising: 30-40% of patients, resolves in 5-10 days
- Tenderness: Touch sensitivity for several days
- Lumps/bumps: Palpable initially, most resolve within weeks
- Asymmetry: Temporary during swelling phase
Occasional
- Prolonged swelling: Lasting 2-4 weeks
- Visible lumps: May require massage or hyaluronidase
- Tyndall effect: Blue tint under skin (from filler placed too superficially)
- Migration: Filler moves from injection site (rare with proper technique)
- Allergic reaction: Rare with HA fillers
Rare but Serious
- Vascular occlusion: Blocked blood vessel
- Medical emergency
- Can cause tissue death
- Most common in nose, glabella, forehead
- Requires immediate hyaluronidase injection
- Blindness: Extremely rare but documented
- From filler entering blood vessel that feeds eye
- Why nose and forehead are high-risk
- Infection: Rare with sterile technique
- Nodule formation: Hard lumps requiring treatment
- Skin necrosis: Tissue death from compromised blood flow
Minimizing Risks
Choose experienced injectors:
- Board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons
- High volume of filler procedures specifically
- Knowledge of facial anatomy and vascular structures
- Portfolio of natural-looking results
Verify authentic products:
- See sealed packaging before opening
- Check holographic seals and expiration dates
- Avoid suspiciously cheap prices (counterfeit risk)
Start conservatively:
- Better to under-fill initially
- Can always add more at 2-week follow-up
- Cannot easily remove excess without dissolving
Know the risks for your specific area:
- Nose and forehead: Highest risk
- Under eyes: Medium-high risk
- Lips: Low-medium risk
- Cheeks, chin, jawline: Lower risk
Who Should Try Fillers?
Ideal Candidates
Best results for:
- Age 30-65: Optimal age range
- Volume loss concerns: Sunken cheeks, hollow temples, thin lips
- Static wrinkles: Lines present at rest
- Feature enhancement desires: Want fuller lips, defined jaw, etc.
- Realistic expectations: Understanding temporary nature and limits
- Good health: No contraindications
- Desire for immediate results: Unlike Botox's delayed onset
Specific concerns that respond well:
- Age-related volume loss
- Under-eye hollows and dark circles
- Thin or asymmetric lips
- Weak chin or undefined jawline
- Flat or hollow cheeks
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Marionette lines
- Non-surgical nose refinement
Who Should Skip or Delay Fillers
Not recommended for:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding: Safety not established
- Active skin infections: At treatment sites
- Keloid tendency: Scarring concerns
- Autoimmune disorders: Some conditions increase complications
- Bleeding disorders: Higher bruising risk
- Unrealistic expectations: Expecting permanent results or face transformation
- Body dysmorphia: Underlying psychological concerns
Delay if:
- Recent dental work planned (wait 2 weeks before/after)
- Active cold sore outbreak (especially for lip fillers)
- Recent sunburn or skin irritation
- Taking blood thinners (if medically safe to stop temporarily)
Age Considerations
Under 25:
- Usually unnecessary (natural volume still present)
- Exceptions: Lips, chin augmentation for balance
- Focus on preventative care instead
25-35:
- Early intervention can be beneficial
- Lip enhancement most common
- Subtle volume maintenance
35-50:
- Prime age for fillers
- Most visible anti-aging benefits
- Cost-effective intervention for volume loss
50+:
- Still very effective but more product typically needed
- May benefit from combining with other treatments
- Realistic about limitations (won't replace surgical lift for severe laxity)
Treatment Frequency and Maintenance
Initial Treatment
Conservative approach (recommended for first-timers):
- Start with one syringe in primary concern area
- Assess results at 2 weeks
- Add more if desired at follow-up
- Avoid over-filling initially
Aggressive approach:
- Multiple syringes in single session
- Full-face volume restoration
- Higher initial cost but potentially better overall result
Maintenance Schedule
Touch-ups:
- 2-week follow-up: Address any asymmetry, add volume if under-filled
- Many clinics include this in initial price
Repeat treatments:
- Lips: Every 6-9 months
- Nasolabial folds: Every 10-12 months
- Cheeks: Every 12-18 months
- Jawline/chin: Every 12-18 months
When to retreat:
- When volume noticeably diminished
- Don't wait for complete disappearance
- "Top-up" approach maintains results with less product
Building Volume Gradually
Strategic approach:
- Year 1: Establish base volume
- Year 2: Maintain and refine
- Year 3+: Reduce frequency as structure is maintained
Cost consideration:
- Building gradually may cost more initially
- Long-term maintenance becomes more affordable
- Prevents "rollercoaster" of very full to very deflated
Dermal Fillers vs. Other Treatments
Fillers vs. Botox
| Factor | Dermal Fillers | Botox |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Add volume, fill wrinkles | Relax muscles, prevent wrinkles |
| Best for | Static wrinkles, volume loss | Dynamic wrinkles |
| Results | Immediate | 1-2 weeks |
| Duration | 6-18 months | 3-6 months |
| Mechanism | Physical filler | Neurotoxin |
| Reversible | Yes (with hyaluronidase) | No (must wait) |
| Cost in Korea | $155-$460 per syringe | $23-$93 per area |
Often combined: Botox for prevention, fillers for restoration.
Fillers vs. Thread Lift
| Factor | Dermal Fillers | Thread Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Volume addition | Physical lifting |
| Best for | Volume loss | Sagging skin |
| Downtime | 2-7 days | 3-7 days |
| Duration | 6-18 months | 6-12 months |
| Pain | Moderate | Moderate |
| Cost | $155-$460 per syringe | $425-$1,150 full face |
Fillers vs. Fat Transfer
| Factor | Dermal Fillers | Fat Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Injectable | Surgical (lipo + injection) |
| Source | Synthetic HA | Your own fat |
| Downtime | Days | 1-2 weeks |
| Duration | 6-18 months | Permanent (surviving fat) |
| Cost | $155-$460 per syringe | $2,000-$5,000+ |
| Risks | Lower | Higher (surgery) |
Best Seoul Areas for Dermal Fillers
Gangnam District
Why choose Gangnam:
- Highest concentration of filler experts
- Access to all premium brands
- Extensive experience with international patients
- Latest injection techniques
Pricing:
- Korean brands: ₩250,000 - ₩400,000 ($193 - $310) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩450,000 - ₩700,000 ($345 - $540) per syringe
Best for: Complex procedures, high-risk areas (nose, under-eye)
Apgujeong
Why choose Apgujeong:
- Celebrity-favorite clinics
- Natural-looking results emphasis
- High-end service
- Experienced injectors
Pricing:
- Korean brands: ₩200,000 - ₩350,000 ($155 - $270) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩400,000 - ₩600,000 ($310 - $460) per syringe
Best for: Aesthetic refinement, natural enhancement
Myeongdong
Why choose Myeongdong:
- Central location for tourists
- Many English-speaking clinics
- Competitive pricing
- Good quality-to-price ratio
Pricing:
- Korean brands: ₩180,000 - ₩320,000 ($140 - $245) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩350,000 - ₩550,000 ($270 - $425) per syringe
Best for: International visitors, convenience
Hongdae/Sinchon
Why choose Hongdae:
- Most affordable pricing
- Younger clientele focus
- Trendy, approachable atmosphere
- Good value
Pricing:
- Korean brands: ₩150,000 - ₩280,000 ($115 - $215) per syringe
- Premium brands: ₩300,000 - ₩500,000 ($230 - $385) per syringe
Best for: Budget-conscious patients, lip fillers
Combining Fillers with Other Treatments
Same-Session Combinations
Fillers + Botox:
- Most popular combination
- Comprehensive facial rejuvenation
- Botox for dynamic lines, fillers for volume
- Can be done same day
Fillers + Skin Boosters (Rejuran):
- Fillers for volume
- Boosters for skin quality
- Enhanced overall result
- Usually done same session
Fillers + Laser Toning:
- Fillers for structure
- Laser for pigmentation
- Complete facial refresh
- Can be same day
Sequential Treatments
Fillers before thread lifts:
- Restore volume first
- Then add lifting if needed
- Better overall architecture
HIFU/Shurink after fillers:
- Wait 2-4 weeks
- Tightening enhances filler results
- Comprehensive approach
FAQ
Q: Do fillers hurt? A: With numbing cream, pain is moderate (3-6/10). Some areas hurt more than others (lips and nose more painful than cheeks). Brief discomfort during injection followed by soreness for a few days.
Q: Are results really immediate? A: Yes! You see volume and enhancement right away. However, initial swelling makes results look overdone. True outcome visible at 2 weeks.
Q: How long do fillers last? A: Varies by area and filler type: 6-9 months (lips), 10-12 months (nasolabial folds), 12-18 months (cheeks/chin). Gradual breakdown, not sudden disappearance.
Q: Can fillers be removed if I don't like them? A: Yes! HA fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase enzyme (takes 24-48 hours to work). This is why HA fillers are preferred over permanent options.
Q: Will fillers make me look fake? A: Only if overdone. Skilled injectors aim for natural enhancement. Start conservatively—you can always add more.
Q: Are Korean filler brands safe? A: Yes, Korean brands like Neuramis and Revolax are KFDA-approved and widely used throughout Asia. Similar safety profile to Western brands at lower cost.
Q: What's the difference between cheap and expensive fillers? A: Mainly brand (premium international vs. Korean), clinic reputation, and injector skill. Avoid extremely cheap prices (counterfeit risk).
Q: Can fillers migrate to other areas? A: Rare with proper injection technique and following aftercare. Some areas (lips) have slightly higher migration risk.
Q: How many syringes do I need? A: Varies by area and desired result. Lips: 0.5-1.5 syringes. Cheeks: 2-4 syringes per side. Nasolabial folds: 1-2 total. Consult with injector for personalized assessment.
Q: Can I fly after getting fillers? A: Controversial. Some doctors recommend avoiding flights for 24-48 hours due to pressure changes potentially increasing swelling. Others say it's fine.
Conclusion
Dermal fillers in Korea offer world-class results at prices 40-60% lower than Western countries. With costs ranging from $155 to $460 per syringe for quality Korean brands (and $310-$540 for premium international brands), Seoul has become the global destination for both subtle enhancement and dramatic facial contouring.
Korea's advantage extends beyond just pricing. With 91% of patients seeing immediate satisfying results and a cultural emphasis on natural-looking enhancement rather than obvious transformation, Korean injectors have refined filler techniques to an art form. The concentration of high-volume practitioners means even complex, high-risk procedures like under-eye or nose fillers are performed with exceptional skill and safety awareness.
Key takeaways:
- ✓ Immediate results - see volume and enhancement instantly
- ✓ Reversible - HA fillers can be dissolved if needed
- ✓ High satisfaction - 91% immediate positive results
- ✓ Versatile - treats volume loss, wrinkles, feature enhancement
- ✓ Affordable in Korea - 40-60% less than US/Europe
- ✓ Duration - 6-18 months depending on area and type
- ✓ Minimal downtime - 2-7 days for most areas
Whether you're seeking subtle lip enhancement, under-eye rejuvenation, or full-face volume restoration, Korea's filler treatments deliver exceptional results that enhance your natural beauty rather than transform it. The key is choosing experienced injectors, verifying authentic products, starting conservatively, and understanding that beautiful results take restraint and artistic skill—not just large volumes of product.
Ready to explore fillers in Korea? Schedule consultations at 2-3 clinics to compare approaches and techniques. Ask to see the sealed product packaging before injection, verify the brand and quantity being used, and review before/after photos of previous patients. Choose injectors who discuss risks honestly, recommend conservative amounts, and prioritize natural-looking outcomes over dramatic transformation. Remember: with fillers, less is often more—you can always add, but removal requires dissolving the product entirely.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about dermal filler treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. Dermal fillers involve injection of substances into facial tissues and carry risks including bruising, swelling, asymmetry, infection, vascular occlusion, tissue necrosis, and in extremely rare cases, blindness. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any filler treatment. Discuss your complete medical history, medications, allergies, aesthetic goals, and specific risks for your planned treatment areas during consultation. Results vary significantly by individual based on facial anatomy, injection technique, product choice, and practitioner expertise. Choose only licensed medical professionals who can demonstrate extensive experience with your specific treatment area and who use authentic, KFDA or FDA-approved products from verified sources.
Last Updated: November 6, 2025 Reading Time: 20 minutes
