Among the numerous cosmetic clinics in Seoul, South Korea, Cheongdam-dong has long been synonymous with high-end medical aesthetics. This area is home to many top-tier dermatology and plastic surgery practices. In recent years, the Personal Dermatology Cheongdam Branch has gained rapid popularity for its excellent service, transparent pricing, and tangible results, making it a top choice for many who seek beauty treatments in Korea. This article provides detailed information on the clinic’s location, popular services, customer reviews, and cost estimates to help you decide whether it’s worth visiting.
Basic Information about Personal Dermatology Cheongdam Branch
Clinic Location and Transportation
The Personal Dermatology Cheongdam Branch is situated in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, right next to the famous Galleria Department Store and Apgujeong Rodaeo Street, offering excellent accessibility. The main transportation options are as follows:
- From Metro Bundang Line · Cheongdam Station, exit 8: It takes about 5 minutes on foot. You can use Galleria Department Store as a landmark to find your way easily.
- From Metro Line 3 · Apgujeong Station, exit 4: It takes approximately 10 minutes on foot, making it convenient for passengers taking Line 3.
- From Incheon Airport: Take the airport train to Seoul Station and then transfer to the Bundang Line. The total travel time is around 1 hour to reach Cheongdam Station.
- By Car: There are underground parking lots near the clinic, including the Cheongdam Building parking lot (free for the first 2 hours) and the Galleria Department Store parking lot, making it very convenient to drive there.
Opening Hours and Appointment Process
The clinic is open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday through Friday, and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays and Korean public holidays. It is recommended to make reservations in advance via the official WeChat account or by phone. The waiting time is shortest from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Wednesday through Friday. The clinic provides Chinese-speaking services, ensuring no language barriers.
A detailed analysis of Personal Dermatology’s popular treatments at Cheongdam-dong branch.
Personal Dermatology focuses on a dual approach: “precise contour shaping” and “anti-aging repair.” The most popular treatments include these three core services, which can also be combined into the “Quick Anti-Aging Package” for excellent value.
1. Ultra-Fine Tightening (Advanced Ultrasound Knife)
Ultra-Fine Tightening is Personal Dermatology’s flagship anti-aging treatment. It uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology to precisely target the SMAS fascia layer (at a depth of 4.5 mm) and the dermis (at a depth of 3 mm), resulting in more significant lifting effects. Compared to standard ultrasound knives, Personal Dermatology’s advanced probe distributes energy more evenly, reducing energy gaps and enhancing overall results.
Suitable for: People over 30 years old who experience facial sagging, deepening nasolabial folds, or drooping eye corners.
Approximate cost: Basic full-face treatment costs around 1.16 million Korean won (about 5,800 RMB); additional options for the neck or forehead are priced sep
arately. Results: Visible improvements appear 2–3 months after treatment, with effects lasting 12–18 months.
2. Onda Lipolysis and Sculpting
ONDA is a non-invasive microwave lipolysis technique that has gained popularity in Korean dermatology in recent years. Developed by the Italian company DEKA, it works by precisely targeting subcutaneous fat cells with microwaves, causing them to break down and die while gently heating the dermis to stimulate collagen regeneration, achieving both fat reduction and skin tightening.
At Personal Dermatology, Onda is often used to address issues such as baby fat on the face, blurred jawlines, and double chins. The entire treatment is painless, with only a mild warming sensation. There is no need for a recovery period, so patients can leave immediately after the procedure, making it ideal for travelers with tight schedules.
Target audience: People whose facial contours are unclear due to localized fat, or those with excess fat around the jawline and neck.
Reference price: Approximately 690,000 Korean won per session (about 3,450 RMB), with discounts available on packages. Effect durati
on: Results become visible gradually within 1–3 months, and the effects last for more than 6 months per session.
3. Botulinum toxin injections (for face slimming/wrinkle removal)
The botulinum toxin products used at Personal Dermatology are all officially certified by the Korean FDA. Their main applications include:
- Masseter muscle botulinum toxin (for face slimming): Improves square or broad faces caused by overdeveloped masseter muscles, helping to create a V-shaped face contour.
- Removal of dynamic wrinkles: Forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, smile lines, etc.
- Eyebrow lift injections: Improve sagging eyebrow tips in a non-surgical manner, achieving natural results.
- Neck wrinkles (chicken neck): Botulinum toxin injections can help reduce horizontal neck lines.
Reference price: 100 units of masseter muscle botulinum toxin cost approximately 119,000 Korean won (about 595 RMB); wrinkle removal areas are charged based on location.
Effect duration: Full results appear 7–14 days after injection and last for 4–6 months; it is recommended to get a booster every six months.
“Get Slimmer in One Day” combo package
Personal Dermatology’s popular package is the “One-Day Tightening Kit”: Ultrasound (1.16 million KRW) + ONDA (690,000 KRW) + Botox (119,000 KRW), with a total cost of approximately 1.969 million KRW (about 9,845 RMB). This combination saves around 480,000 KRW (about 2,400 RMB) compared to buying the treatments individually. One visit addresses three major needs: anti-aging, contouring, and wrinkle removal, making it extremely efficient.
Real customer reviews: What is the experience like at Personal Dermatology?
First consultation experience
According to many people who have undergone treatments in Korea, the first consultation process at Personal Dermatology’s Cheongdam branch is very thorough. Staff at the front desk greet customers in Chinese or English and assign bilingual consultants to accompany them throughout the process. Before the consultation, doctors use a VISIA skin analysis device to conduct a detailed assessment of the skin, including eight parameters such as collagen density, pigment distribution, and pore condition. This allows doctors to tailor the most suitable treatment plan based on each patient’s specific skin conditions, rather than recommending the most expensive packages indiscriminately.
Many reviewers have reported that there is no aggressive sales pressure or “tourist pricing” at Personal Dermatology. The quotes are clear and transparent, and it is important to confirm whether the prices include tax (10% VAT is added to medical and cosmetic services in Korea) to avoid any misunderstandings at checkout.
Experience during the treatment
Taking the “One-Day Tightening Kit” as an example, the entire treatment takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, including pre-treatment assessments, waiting for local anesthesia to take effect, and post-treatment care:
- Ultrasound treatment (about 60 minutes): This is performed after applying local anesthesia, and the intensity can be adjusted according to individual tolerance. Most people describe it as feeling like having their skin stretched by an elastic band, with a slight stinging sensation that is still within an acceptable range.
- ONDA fat dissolution treatment (about 30 minutes): The entire process is completely painless, and you can even use your phone while it is underway, making it a very comfortable experience.
- Botox injection (about 15 minutes): The needle sensation is very mild, similar to a mosquito bite. The psychological stress during the procedure far outweighs any physical discomfort.
- Post-treatment care (about 30 minutes): Immediately after the procedure, a cold compress and a soothing mask are applied. The nurse will provide detailed instructions for at-home care, including dietary recommendations, hygiene tips, and sun protection measures.
Effect tracking
The treatment results at Personal Dermatology are generally well-reviewed as follows:
- 1 week after the procedure: There may be slight swelling after the ultrasound treatment, but the contours of the jawline begin to become visible; ONDA and Botox require no recovery period.
- 1 month after the procedure: The facial contours become more distinct, the V-shaped effect starts to appear, the skin’s firmness improves, and makeup adheres better.
- 3 months after the procedure: The effects of the ultrasound treatment reach their peak; the nasolabial folds are reduced, and the elevation at the ends of the eyebrows is noticeable; the results of Onda lipolysis remain stable, and the clarity of the jawline continues to improve.
Summary of fees at Personal Dermatology’s Cheongdam-dong branch for 2026
The following are the latest reference fees for 2026 (all prices are before tax; please confirm whether an additional 10% VAT is required at checkout):
- Ultra-firming treatment for the whole face: Approximately 1.16 million Korean won (about 5,800 RMB)
- ONDA lipolysis: Approximately 690,000 Korean won (about 3,450 RMB)
- Botulinum toxin for muscle tightening (100 units): Approximately 119,000 Korean won (about 595 RMB)
- “Get Toned in One Day” package (three treatments combined): Approximately 1.969 million Korean won (about 9,845 RMB)
- Other anti-wrinkle injections (depending on the area): Prices range from 50,000 to 150,000 Korean won
Compared to similar treatments in mainland China, receiving treatment in South Korea can save approximately 30% to 40% on costs. Moreover, all products used are genuine and of high quality.
Important notes before and after visiting a clinic in South Korea
Preoperative preparations
- Stop using irritating skin care ingredients such as retinol, fruit acids, or salicylic acid at least 1 week before the treatment.
- Avoid drinking alcohol 48 hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of bruising and swelling afterwards.
- If you are taking aspirin or other anticoagulant medications, please inform your doctor in advance.
- Just go there with your natural face on; no special preparations are needed.
Postoperative Care
- For 24 hours after the procedure, gently wash your face with warm water; avoid hot water or vigorous rubbing.
- For one month after the procedure, strictly avoid sun exposure—make sure to use SPF50+ sunscreen before going out.
- For three days after the procedure, refrain from intense exercise, saunas, and prolonged exposure to hot environments.
- Within 4 hours after the botulinum toxin injection, stay upright and avoid lying down or pressing on the injection site.
- It is recommended to pause phototherapy treatments such as radiofrequency and lasers for one month after the procedure to allow your skin to fully recover.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does the Personal Dermatology clinic in Cheongtan-dong offer services in Chinese?
Yes. The clinic has bilingual consultants who can communicate in both Chinese and Korean throughout the entire process, from consultation and treatment to post-operative guidance—so there are no language barriers at all. Additionally, you can leave messages in Chinese when making appointments via WeChat.
Q2: Is the ultrasound treatment very painful? Do I need to get an anesthetic in advance?
At Personal Dermatology, a topical anesthetic cream is applied before the ultrasound treatment, and the procedure begins after about 30 minutes. Most clients find the pain to be within an acceptable range, describing it as similar to the sensation of a rubber band snapping. The intensity of the treatment can be adjusted by the doctor according to individual tolerance, so there’s no need to worry too much.
Q3: If I book a one-day treatment, how long do I need to stay in Korea before returning home?
Neither ONDA nor botulinum toxin treatments require a recovery period, so you can leave immediately after the procedure. After the ultrasound treatment, there may be slight redness or swelling, but these usually subside within 24–48 hours. Therefore, it is recommended to stay for at least 1–2 days after the treatment before taking a long-distance flight to avoid additional stress on your skin due to cabin pressure.
Q4: How can I make an appointment at Personal Dermatology’s Cheongdam-dong branch?
You can make an appointment in the following ways: ① Directly message the clinic’s official Chinese WeChat account; ② Use Korean beauty platforms like BeautsGO to book online, as some offer special discounts; ③ Call the clinic’s Chinese service hotline. It is highly recommended to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance, as popular weekend and holiday schedules tend to fill up quickly.
Q5: Can I get a tax refund for medical treatments in Korea?
Korean medical and cosmetic treatments (including dermatology services) generally do not qualify for regular shopping tax refunds. However, some hospitals offer “medical tourism tax refund” programs for foreign visitors. It is advisable to inquire with the clinic in advance whether such a program is available. Please keep all receipts when leaving the country in case you need to process a tax refund.
Overall: Is Personal Dermatology’s Cheongdam-dong branch worth visiting?
Overall, the Personal Dermatology clinic in Cheongdam-dong boasts the following key advantages: its excellent location (just a 5-minute walk from Cheongdam Station), a comprehensive range of services covering anti-aging, body shaping, and wrinkle removal, transparent pricing without any excessive markups for tourists, competent Chinese-speaking staff, and highly cost-effective package deals. Whether you are new to Korean cosmetic treatments or a repeat customer looking for a regular clinic, the Personal Dermatology clinic in Cheongdam-dong is definitely worth considering.
Of course, the results of any medical cosmetic procedure can vary from person to person. It is recommended that you undergo a face-to-face consultation with a professional before deciding on any treatment. By thoroughly discussing your skin condition, health status, and treatment goals, you can develop a plan that is best suited to you and proceed with peace of mind.
