Scar Removal in Seoul, Korea
What Types of Scars Can Be Treated
Clinics in Seoul treat a wide variety of scar types, including:
- Atrophic scars (indented acne scars: icepick, boxcar, rolling)
- Hypertrophic or raised scars
- Keloid scars
- Surgical or trauma scars (flat or raised)
- Burn scars and pigmented scar areas
Common Treatment Methods at Seoul Clinics
Here are the main options you’ll find:
• Fractional / Resurfacing Lasers
High-end lasers (such as CO₂, Er:YAG, Fraxel) are used to remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen regeneration—ideal for texture, deep scars or surgical marks.
• RF Microneedling
Combines microneedling with radiofrequency to remodel scar tissue beneath the skin’s surface—less downtime than heavy lasers, suitable for many skin tones.
• Subcision, Fillers & Injectables
For depressed scars (like rolling or boxcar acne scars) doctors may perform subcision (release underlying scar bands), then inject fillers or biostimulators to smooth the surface.
• Steroid / Keloid Management
Raised or thick scars (hypertrophic/keloid) may require steroid injections, laser or other modalities to flatten and soften.
• Regenerative Therapies
Boosters such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma), exosomes or growth-factor therapies are used alongside lasers to accelerate healing and improve scar tone, color and texture.
Why Seoul Is a Leading Destination
- Advanced dermatology clinics with laser expertise and state-of-the-art equipment.
- Tailored protocols for Asian skin types and melanin-rich skin (important for scar/pigmentation risk).
- English-friendly services and international patient support in key areas (Gangnam, Apgujeong).
- Competitive pricing with high quality care. For example: laser scar removal sessions in Seoul can start around USD ≈ $300-$400 per session, depending on case complexity.
What to Expect: Procedure & Recovery
- Consultation: Skin assessment, scar mapping, selection of appropriate modality (laser/microneedle/filler)
- Treatment: May involve numbing; time varies depending on area.
- After-care:
- Redness, swelling or pinpoint bruising are common immediately afterward.
- Downtime depends on treatment intensity—some lasers require 3–7 days of visible healing.
- Sunscreen, gentle skincare and avoiding sun exposure are essential for best results and to prevent pigment changes.
- Results Timeline:
- Initial smoothing may be seen in days/weeks; deeper remodeling continues for 2–3 months with collagen growth.
- Most treatments require multiple sessions (2-6 or more) depending on scar severity.
How Much Does It Cost?
Here are ballpark figures in Seoul (as of recent data):
- Laser resurfacing for scars: ~ ₩300,000-₩700,000 per session (roughly USD $230-$530) depending on depth & device.
- RF microneedling: ~ ₩250,000-₩600,000 per session.
- Packages or combination treatments may reduce per-session cost and improve outcomes.
Is It Right for You?
You’re a good candidate if you:
- Have visible scars (from acne, surgery, trauma) and want improvement in texture, tone or appearance.
- Are willing to undergo multiple sessions and follow after-care instructions.
- Understand that complete removal of a scar may not be possible, but significant improvement is realistic.
Important to discuss if you:
- Have very deep, wide scars or scar contractures—these may require surgical revision.
- Have active skin infection, uncontrolled medical conditions, or recent sunburn—treatment may need to be delayed.
- Are extremely doubtful of downtime—some procedures will have visible healing phase.
