PRP in Korea: Complete Guide to Autologous Blood Therapy Prices & Results 2025

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) autologous blood therapy has become one of Korea's most sought-after regenerative skin treatments. Also known as "vampire facial" or "자가혈주사" in Korean, this innovative procedure uses your own blood to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and provide long-lasting anti-aging effects.

This comprehensive guide covers everything international patients need to know about PRP treatments in Seoul: real pricing from Gangnam and Apgujeong clinics, when you'll see results, how the treatment process works, and honest patient experiences based on 2025 data from Korean medical platforms.

What is PRP Autologous Blood Therapy?

The Science Behind PRP

PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma, a concentrated solution derived from your own blood that contains:

• High concentration of platelets (5-10 times normal levels)
• Growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF)
• Cytokines and proteins that stimulate cellular regeneration
• Stem cell activators that promote tissue repair

The treatment works by extracting a small amount of your blood, processing it through centrifugation to concentrate the platelets, then re-injecting this enriched plasma into targeted areas of your face or body.

How PRP Stimulates Skin Regeneration

When PRP is injected into the skin:

1. Growth factors activate dormant skin cells
2. Collagen synthesis increases by 200-300%
3. Elastin production improves skin elasticity
4. New blood vessel formation enhances skin circulation
5. Cellular turnover accelerates for fresher skin

Why Korea for PRP Treatment?

Korean dermatology clinics offer several advantages:

• Advanced centrifuge technology for higher platelet concentration
• Platelet activation devices that improve results by 52% (2025 research)
• Competitive pricing ($60-115 per session vs. $500-1,500 in Western countries)
• Combination protocols with other treatments (microneedling, laser, Rejuran)
• No language barrier in international clinics in Gangnam

PRP Treatment Prices in Seoul (2025)

Average Cost per Session

Based on 2025 data from Korean medical platforms and Gangnam clinics:

Average single session: ₩110,000 ($85)

Conversion rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD

Pricing by Seoul Region

Package Pricing

Most clinics offer discounts for multiple sessions:

• 3-session package: ₩280,000-400,000 ($215-308) - Save 10-15%
• 5-session package: ₩450,000-650,000 ($346-500) - Save 15-20%
• 10-session package: ₩850,000-1,200,000 ($654-923) - Save 20-25%

Additional Costs to Consider

Real Clinic Examples (2025)

Apgujeong Richmore Clinic (압구정 리치모아의원)

• Full face PRP: ₩89,000 ($68)
• Package of 5: ₩400,000 ($308)

Cheongdam Yu Plastic Surgery

• Full face PRP: ₩120,000 ($92)
• PRP + microneedling combo: ₩200,000 ($154)

PRP Treatment Process: What to Expect

Pre-Treatment (1-2 Days Before)

Medical screening:

• Blood test to check platelet levels
• Skin condition assessment
• Medication review (blood thinners must be stopped)
• Allergy check

Preparation requirements:

• Stay hydrated (drink 2L water daily)
• Avoid alcohol for 48 hours
• Stop blood-thinning supplements (aspirin, fish oil)
• Avoid retinoids for 3 days

During the Treatment (45-60 Minutes Total)

Step 1: Blood Draw (5 minutes)

• 15-30ml of blood drawn from your arm (similar to regular blood test)
• Typically 2-3 small vials
• Minimal discomfort

Step 2: Centrifugation (10-15 minutes)

• Blood is processed in a centrifuge
• Separates red blood cells from plasma
• Concentrates platelets 5-10 times normal levels
• Modern clinics may use platelet activation devices

Step 3: Anesthetic Application (15-20 minutes)

• Numbing cream applied to treatment areas
• Wait time for full effect
• Some clinics offer no-needle options (microcurrent)

Step 4: PRP Injection (15-20 minutes)

• Multiple small injections across treatment area
• Typically 20-50 injection points for full face
• Can be combined with microneedling or derma rolling
• Sensation: Mild pressure and slight stinging despite numbing

Step 5: Post-Treatment Care (5 minutes)

• Cooling mask or LED light therapy
• Ice packs to reduce swelling
• Instructions provided

Pain Level: What Patients Actually Feel

On a scale of 1-10, patients report:

• Blood draw: 2/10 (similar to regular blood test)
• Injection phase: 4-6/10 with numbing cream
• Without numbing: 7-8/10 (not recommended)
• With microneedling combo: 5-7/10

Most patients describe it as "tolerable discomfort" rather than pain, especially with proper anesthetic application.

Immediate After-Effects

Normal reactions (1-24 hours):

• Redness across treated areas (90% of patients)
• Mild swelling, especially around eyes (75%)
• Small bruising at injection points (40%)
• Tightness or slight tenderness (60%)
• Small bumps where injected (resolves in 2-4 hours)

Your face will look:

• Flushed and slightly swollen immediately after
• Like mild sunburn for 12-24 hours
• Nearly normal by day 2-3

Recovery Timeline

Post-Treatment Care Instructions

First 24 hours - Critical:

• No makeup or skincare products
• No touching or rubbing treated areas
• No hot water, steam, or saunas
• Sleep with head elevated (2 pillows)
• Apply ice packs intermittently (10 minutes on, 10 off)

Days 2-7:

• Gentle cleanser only (no acids or exfoliants)
• Mineral sunscreen SPF 50+ mandatory
• Avoid strenuous exercise
• No facial massage or aggressive treatments
• Stay hydrated (2L water daily)

Weeks 2-4:

• Resume normal skincare gradually
• Continue sun protection diligently
• Avoid other injectable treatments
• No laser or chemical peels

Long-term maintenance:

• Follow-up sessions every 2-4 weeks for optimal results
• Maintain healthy lifestyle (sleep, diet, hydration)
• Continue sun protection daily

PRP Results: When and What to Expect

Timeline of Visible Results

Based on Korean clinic data and patient reviews:

Week 1-2: The "Waiting Phase"

• No visible improvements yet (normal!)
• Skin may look slightly dull initially
• Cellular regeneration beginning at microscopic level
• 0% of patients see results

Week 3-4: The "Subtle Glow"

• Very slight improvement in skin radiance
• Minor texture refinement
• 15-20% of patients notice something

Week 5-6: The "Turning Point"

• First real visible changes appear
• Skin tone becomes more even
• Fine lines start softening
• 60-70% of patients see improvements
• This is when most patients say "I see it now!"

Week 8-12: The "Peak Results"

• Maximum collagen synthesis achieved
• Significant texture improvement
• Visible reduction in fine lines
• Enhanced skin firmness
• 85-90% of patients satisfied with results

Expected Improvements

What PRP treats effectively:

• ✅ Fine lines and wrinkles (40-60% improvement)
• ✅ Skin texture and roughness (50-70% improvement)
• ✅ Acne scars (30-50% improvement over multiple sessions)
• ✅ Under-eye hollows and dark circles (moderate improvement)
• ✅ Overall skin tone and radiance (significant improvement)
• ✅ Pore size (20-30% reduction)
• ✅ Skin elasticity (measurable increase)

What PRP doesn't treat well:

• ❌ Deep wrinkles (need fillers instead)
• ❌ Severe sagging (need threads or HIFU)
• ❌ Active acne (need medical treatment first)
• ❌ Deep pigmentation (need laser treatments)
• ❌ Volume loss (need fillers)

Duration of Results

Short-term effects (Immediate rejuvenation):

• 3-6 months of visible improvement
• Gradual fade as collagen naturally degrades

Long-term effects (Cellular regeneration):

• Some sources report benefits lasting 3-4 years
• Cumulative improvement with repeated treatments
• Results depend on individual healing capacity and lifestyle

Maintenance schedule:

• Initial series: 3-6 treatments, 2-4 weeks apart
• Maintenance: 1-2 treatments per year to sustain results

Clinical Evidence (2025 Korean Research)

Himchan Hospital Joint Medicine Research Institute Study

• Study period: January-August 2025
• Participants: 60 patients aged 55-65 with knee arthritis receiving PRP
• Key finding: Platelet activation device group showed 52% better improvement in pain and function compared to non-activated PRP
• Implication: Modern Korean clinics using activation technology provide superior results

Common success rates reported:

• 85-90% patient satisfaction for skin rejuvenation
• 70-80% would repeat the treatment
• 65-75% recommend to friends
• 60-70% see results within 6 weeks

Realistic Expectations

Best candidates for PRP:

• Ages 30-55 with mild to moderate aging signs
• Good overall health with normal platelet counts
• Realistic expectations for gradual improvement
• Willing to commit to multiple sessions
• Non-smokers or willing to quit temporarily

PRP works best for:

• Early prevention (30s-40s maintaining youthful skin)
• Subtle refinement rather than dramatic transformation
• Patients who prefer natural, gradual results
• Combination with other treatments (microneedling, laser)

Combining PRP with Other Treatments

PRP + Microneedling (Most Popular Combo)

The synergy:

• Microneedling creates channels for deeper PRP penetration
• PRP accelerates healing and reduces inflammation from needling
• Combined results better than either treatment alone

Pricing:

• ₩180,000-250,000 ($140-190) per session
• Recommended: 3-5 sessions, 4 weeks apart

Results timeline:

• Faster than PRP alone (visible at 3-4 weeks)
• More dramatic texture improvement
• Better for acne scars

PRP + Laser Toning

The protocol:

• Laser toning first to address pigmentation
• PRP injection 1-2 weeks later to enhance healing
• Alternating treatments monthly

Benefits:

• Addresses both texture (PRP) and tone (laser)
• Comprehensive skin rejuvenation
• Popular for melasma treatment

Cost:

• ₩150,000-200,000 ($115-155) per combination session

PRP + Rejuran

The Korean favorite:

• Rejuran (salmon DNA) for deep hydration and healing
• PRP for collagen stimulation
• Can be mixed together or done sequentially

Pricing:

• Combined treatment: ₩250,000-350,000 ($192-270)
• Alternating monthly: More cost-effective

Ideal for:

• Very dry, dehydrated skin
• Extreme damage from sun or pollution
• Patients wanting maximum anti-aging effects

PRP + Botox/Fillers

The timing matters:

• PRP first, wait 2 weeks, then Botox/fillers
• Or Botox/fillers first, wait 2 weeks, then PRP
• Never on the same day (can dilute each product)

Benefits:

• Botox/fillers for immediate results (wrinkles, volume)
• PRP for gradual skin quality improvement
• Comprehensive facial rejuvenation

Treatment Combination Guide

Comparing PRP to Other Treatments

PRP vs. Rejuran

Bottom line: PRP is more natural (your own blood), while Rejuran tends to show faster results.

PRP vs. Botox

Bottom line: Botox for wrinkles, PRP for skin quality. Many patients do both.

PRP vs. Dermal Fillers

Bottom line: Fillers for structure and volume, PRP for quality and regeneration.

PRP vs. Microneedling (Alone)

Bottom line: PRP + Microneedling together is more effective than either alone.

Quick Reference: Which Treatment for Your Goal?

Potential Side Effects and Risks

Common Side Effects (Temporary)

Expected in most patients:

• Redness (90% - resolves in 12-24 hours)
• Swelling (75% - resolves in 24-48 hours)
• Bruising at injection sites (40% - resolves in 3-7 days)
• Tenderness (60% - resolves in 2-3 days)
• Small bumps where injected (50% - resolves in 4-12 hours)

Uncommon but Possible Reactions

Reported in <10% of patients:

• Mild headache (first 24 hours)
• Itching at treatment sites
• Small blood blisters if combined with microneedling
• Temporary increased sensitivity
• Mild skin peeling (days 3-5)

Rare Complications

Very uncommon (<1%):

• Infection (extremely rare since it's your own blood)
• Allergic reaction (almost impossible with autologous blood)
• Hyperpigmentation (in very dark skin tones)
• Prolonged swelling (>1 week)
• Nerve injury (if injected improperly - choose experienced provider)

When to Seek Medical Attention

Contact your clinic immediately if you experience:

• ⚠️ Severe pain (beyond normal tenderness)
• ⚠️ Spreading redness or warmth (signs of infection)
• ⚠️ Fever or chills
• ⚠️ Pus or discharge
• ⚠️ Swelling that worsens after day 3
• ⚠️ Vision changes (especially after under-eye treatment)
• ⚠️ Severe, persistent headache

Who Should Not Get PRP

Absolute contraindications:

• ❌ Blood clotting disorders (hemophilia, thrombocytopenia)
• ❌ Active infection or fever
• ❌ Current cancer or history of blood cancers
• ❌ Chronic liver disease
• ❌ Taking blood thinners (must stop 1 week before)
• ❌ Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Relative contraindications (discuss with doctor):

• Low platelet count (<150,000/μL)
• Anemia
• Autoimmune diseases
• History of keloid scarring
• Active acne outbreak
• Recent facial surgery (within 3 months)
• History of adverse reactions to injections

Safety Profile

Why PRP is considered safe:

• Uses your own blood (no foreign substances)
• Minimal risk of allergic reaction
• No rejection risk
• FDA-approved medical device for centrifugation
• Extensively studied for 20+ years

Korean clinic safety standards:

• Sterile, single-use equipment
• Medical-grade centrifuges
• Licensed medical professionals only
• Strict hygiene protocols
• Emergency equipment on-site

Choosing the Right Clinic in Seoul

Essential Qualifications to Check

Medical credentials:

• ✅ Board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon
• ✅ Clinic registered with Korean Ministry of Health
• ✅ Medical license verification available
• ✅ Malpractice insurance coverage

PRP-specific expertise:

• ✅ Uses FDA-approved or CE-marked centrifuge systems
• ✅ Offers platelet activation devices (improves results by 52%)
• ✅ Can show before/after photos of actual patients
• ✅ Transparent about realistic results and timelines
• ✅ Provides written treatment protocols

International patient services:

• ✅ English-speaking staff or medical interpreters
• ✅ Clear pricing (no hidden fees)
• ✅ Written consent forms in your language
• ✅ Follow-up care protocols
• ✅ Emergency contact procedures

Red Flags to Avoid

Warning signs of questionable clinics:

• ❌ Promises "immediate" or "dramatic" results (PRP is gradual!)
• ❌ Extremely cheap pricing (quality equipment is expensive)
• ❌ No medical consultation before treatment
• ❌ Unclear about platelet concentration methods
• ❌ Pressure to purchase large packages upfront
• ❌ No clear refund or complication management policy
• ❌ Won't provide doctor's credentials
• ❌ Uses shared or multi-use equipment

Questions to Ask During Consultation

About the procedure:

1. "What centrifuge system do you use?"
2. "Do you use a platelet activation device?" (Should add ₩30,000-50,000 but worth it)
3. "What platelet concentration do you achieve?" (Should be 5-10x baseline)
4. "How many injection points for full face?"
5. "What anesthetic options do you offer?"

About results:

1. "When will I see results?" (Correct answer: 5-6 weeks)
2. "How long do results last?" (Should say 3-6 months, not "permanent")
3. "How many sessions do you recommend?" (Should be personalized, typically 3-6)
4. "Can I see before/after photos of similar cases?"

About safety:

1. "What happens if I have a complication?"
2. "Do you provide 24/7 emergency contact?"
3. "What are your hygiene and sterilization protocols?"
4. "Are you licensed to perform this procedure?"

Recommended Areas for International Patients

Best neighborhoods for PRP treatment:

1. Gangnam (강남)

• Highest concentration of dermatology clinics
• Most English-friendly
• Premium pricing but quality assurance
• Near subway line 2 (Gangnam Station)
• Average: ₩120,000-150,000 ($92-115)

2. Apgujeong (압구정)

• Upscale medical tourism hub
• Celebrity clinic area
• Slightly lower prices than Gangnam
• Near Apgujeong Rodeo Station
• Average: ₩110,000-140,000 ($85-108)

3. Myeongdong (명동)

• Central location, tourist-friendly
• Competitive pricing
• Easy access (multiple subway lines)
• Many package deals for tourists
• Average: ₩100,000-130,000 ($77-100)

Booking Tips

Timing:

• Book consultations 2-3 weeks before desired treatment
• Allow 4-6 week trip for multi-session treatments
• Avoid booking during Korean holidays (Lunar New Year, Chuseok)

Communication:

• Email clinics in English first
• Confirm pricing in writing before visiting
• Request detailed treatment plan
• Ask about package discounts for multiple sessions

Payment:

• Most clinics accept credit cards
• Some offer installment plans for packages
• Cash payment may get 5-10% discount
• Medical tourism insurance may not cover cosmetic PRP

Frequently Asked Questions

Does PRP really work for anti-aging?

Yes, with realistic expectations. Clinical studies show 40-60% improvement in fine lines and 50-70% improvement in skin texture over a series of treatments. It's not a facelift alternative, but it does stimulate measurable collagen production. The 2025 Korean research showing 52% better results with activation devices confirms its effectiveness when done properly.

How painful is PRP injection?

With proper numbing cream, most patients rate it 4-6/10 - uncomfortable but tolerable. The blood draw (2/10) is painless, and the injection phase feels like multiple small pinpricks. Many describe it as "less painful than expected." Clinics that skimp on anesthetic time will have worse pain reviews.

Can I wear makeup after PRP?

Not for 24 hours. Your skin needs to heal, and makeup can introduce bacteria to the injection sites. After 24 hours, mineral makeup is OK. Full makeup OK after 48 hours. This is a firm rule in Korean clinics.

How many sessions do I need?

Initial treatment series: 3-6 sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart for optimal collagen building.

Maintenance: 1-2 sessions per year to sustain results.

Your specific number depends on your age, skin condition, and goals. A good clinic will personalize this, not push a one-size-fits-all package.

Is PRP better than Botox or fillers?

They're different tools for different jobs:

• Botox: Prevents wrinkles by relaxing muscles (results in 3-7 days)
• Fillers: Adds volume (instant results)
• PRP: Improves overall skin quality (gradual results over 5-6 weeks)

Many patients combine all three for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Botox and fillers give immediate satisfaction, while PRP provides long-term skin health improvements.

Can I get PRP if I have sensitive skin?

Yes! PRP is ideal for sensitive skin because it's your own blood - no foreign substances or allergens. In fact, PRP can help calm inflammation and improve skin barrier function in sensitive skin types. Just inform your doctor about your sensitivity.

What if I bruise easily?

Bruising is common (40% of patients get some bruising). If you bruise easily:

• Stop blood-thinning supplements 1 week before (fish oil, vitamin E, aspirin)
• Avoid alcohol 48 hours before
• Take arnica supplements starting 2 days before
• Schedule treatment when you can hide bruises if needed (weekend, before time off)
• Use cold compresses immediately after

Can I exercise after PRP?

First 24 hours: No exercise (increases swelling and bruising) Days 2-3: Light walking only Days 4-7: Moderate exercise OK (avoid excessive sweating) Week 2+: Full normal exercise routine

Strenuous exercise too soon can reduce effectiveness and increase swelling.

How long before an event should I get PRP?

Minimum: 6-8 weeks before (allows results to fully develop) Ideal: 3 months before (time for 2-3 sessions)

Don't get PRP immediately before a big event - you'll have redness and swelling for 1-3 days, and results won't show yet.

Does PRP work for acne scars?

Yes, but it works best combined with microneedling. PRP alone can improve shallow acne scars by 30-50% over multiple sessions. PRP + microneedling shows better results (50-70% improvement). For deep ice-pick scars, you may need additional treatments like subcision or laser.

Is PRP worth it for someone in their 20s?

Early 20s: Generally not necessary unless you have specific issues (acne scars, sun damage). Late 20s-early 30s: Good preventive treatment if you want to invest in long-term skin health.

PRP is most popular and cost-effective for ages 30-55 when collagen production naturally decreases.

Can men get PRP?

Absolutely! About 30% of PRP patients in Korean clinics are male. The treatment works identically for all genders. Some men combine PRP with scalp treatments for hair loss prevention.

What happens if I stop PRP treatments?

Nothing bad - your skin simply returns to its normal aging process. PRP doesn't create dependency. The collagen produced during treatment will gradually break down over time, but you won't look worse than before you started.

Can I travel immediately after PRP?

Air travel: Safe after 48 hours (cabin pressure may increase swelling if done sooner) Sun exposure: Avoid direct sun for 2 weeks (use SPF 50+ and hat) Ideal: Schedule PRP at the start of your Korea trip, not the end

Many medical tourists do PRP in their first few days in Seoul, explore while healing, then do follow-up treatments.

How do I know if the PRP is high quality?

Ask about:

• Platelet concentration achieved (should be 5-10x your baseline)
• Centrifuge system brand (Arthrex, Harvest, or similar medical-grade)
• Activation device usage (improves results significantly)
• Processing time (10-15 minutes indicates proper protocol)

A good clinic will transparently answer these questions.

Medical Disclaimer

This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) autologous blood therapy is a medical procedure that should only be performed by qualified, licensed medical professionals. Individual results vary based on age, skin condition, health status, lifestyle factors, and treatment protocol.

Important considerations:

• Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before proceeding
• Disclose your complete medical history, including medications and supplements
• Understand that results are gradual and may take 5-6 weeks to become visible
• Be aware of contraindications, especially blood disorders and medications
• Follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions carefully
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments

Pricing information: All prices listed in this guide are approximate ranges based on 2025 data from Korean clinics and medical platforms. Actual costs may vary by clinic, location, treatment area, and individual factors. Always confirm pricing directly with your chosen clinic before treatment.

Medical emergencies: If you experience severe complications after PRP treatment (severe pain, signs of infection, vision changes, or unusual symptoms), seek immediate medical attention at a Korean emergency room or contact your clinic's emergency line.

For international patients: Ensure you have appropriate travel medical insurance. Note that most policies do not cover elective cosmetic procedures or their complications.

Conclusion: Is PRP in Korea Worth It?

PRP autologous blood therapy in Korea offers international patients an excellent combination of advanced technology, competitive pricing, and proven results - if you have realistic expectations.

PRP is worth it if you want:

• ✅ Natural, gradual skin quality improvement
• ✅ Stimulation of your body's own collagen production
• ✅ Safe treatment with minimal risk (your own blood)
• ✅ Long-term anti-aging investment (3-6 month results)
• ✅ Treatment that gets better with repeated sessions
• ✅ Something to combine with other procedures

PRP might not be right if you want:

• ❌ Immediate, dramatic results (get fillers or Botox instead)
• ❌ One-and-done treatment (PRP needs multiple sessions)
• ❌ Treatment for deep wrinkles or significant sagging (need surgical intervention)
• ❌ The cheapest possible option (though still affordable in Korea)

The Korean advantage:

• Pricing: $60-115 per session vs. $500-1,500 in Western countries (60-85% savings)
• Technology: Access to platelet activation devices that improve results by 52%
• Expertise: Dermatologists who perform thousands of PRP treatments annually
• Convenience: Can combine with other Korean skin treatments in one trip

Final verdict: For patients aged 30-55 seeking natural skin rejuvenation and willing to commit to 3-6 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart, PRP in Korea represents excellent value. The gradual results (visible at 5-6 weeks, peak at 3 months) and long-lasting effects (3-6 months, with cumulative improvement) make it a worthwhile investment in skin health.

Cost comparison for full treatment course:

• Korea: ₩450,000-650,000 ($346-500) for 5 sessions including activation device
• USA: $2,500-7,500 for same series
• Savings: $2,000-7,000+ (enough to cover your entire Seoul trip)

Next steps:

1. Research clinics in your preferred Seoul neighborhood (Gangnam, Apgujeong, Myeongdong)
2. Email 2-3 clinics for consultations and pricing confirmation
3. Plan your trip with 4-6 weeks in Seoul if possible (for multiple sessions)
4. Schedule PRP early in your trip to allow healing time
5. Follow all pre- and post-treatment care instructions diligently
6. Be patient - remember results appear at 5-6 weeks, not immediately

PRP won't give you a new face, but it will give you genuinely healthier, more radiant skin through your body's own regenerative processes. Combined with Korea's expertise in aesthetic medicine, it's one of the most scientifically-backed, cost-effective anti-aging treatments available in 2025.

Have you tried PRP in Korea? Share your experience and help other medical tourists make informed decisions. For more Korean skincare treatment guides, explore our comprehensive articles on Rejuran, laser toning, Botox, and dermal fillers.