Before getting a dermatology treatment, ask about your diagnosis, the expected result, the number of sessions, common and serious risks, the exact product or device, aftercare, the total price including VAT and how to contact the clinic after you return home.
1. Questions About Your Diagnosis
- What is causing my concern?
- Is it a skin condition that needs medical treatment first?
- Which treatments are suitable for my skin type?
Read about the training behind a diagnosis on our board-certified dermatologist page.
2. Questions About the Treatment
- What is the exact name of the treatment, device or product?
- What result can I realistically expect, and when will I see it?
- How many sessions will I need, and how far apart?
- Who will perform the treatment?
- Are there alternatives, and how do they compare?
3. Questions About Risks
| Ask | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Which side effects are common? | You can plan for expected redness, swelling or bruising |
| Which side effects are rare but serious? | You know which symptoms need urgent contact |
| Is this treatment safe with my medications? | Some medicines affect healing and bleeding |
| What happens if a side effect occurs? | You know how the clinic will respond |
4. Questions About Cost
- Does the quote include 10% VAT?
- Are follow-up visits or touch-ups included?
- Is the price per session or for the full course?
- What is included in a package, and can I buy one session first?
The VAT refund for foreign patients on cosmetic procedures ended on December 31, 2025, so cosmetic skin treatments currently do not qualify for a tourist tax refund. If you have any questions about payment or taxes, ask the clinic before you pay.
5. Questions About Aftercare and Travel
- What should I avoid after treatment, and for how long?
- When can I wear makeup, exercise or fly?
- Will I receive written aftercare instructions?
- How do I contact the clinic after I return home?
See why patients choose us for how consultations and aftercare are handled.
FAQ
What is the most important question to ask before treatment?
Ask what the diagnosis is. The treatment should match the cause of your concern, so knowing the diagnosis helps you judge whether the plan makes sense.
Should I ask about risks even for minor treatments?
Yes. Every treatment has possible side effects. Ask which side effects are common, which are rare but serious, and what the clinic does if they happen.
How can I confirm the product or device used?
Ask for the exact product or device name in writing. For injectables, you can ask to see the sealed package before it is opened.
Should the price include follow-up visits?
Ask whether follow-up checks, touch-ups or extra sessions are included in the quote, and whether the price includes 10% VAT.
What should I ask if I am flying home soon?
Ask when it is safe to fly, how long redness or swelling usually lasts, and how to contact the clinic after you leave Korea.
APGUJEONG · GANGNAM · SEOUL
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- Medical Service Act of Korea (의료법) — explanation, consent and price disclosure.
- Value-Added Tax Act of Korea (부가가치세법) — VAT on cosmetic medical services.
- Korean Dermatological Association (대한피부과학회) — patient information on dermatology care.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Results and suitability vary by individual.
