How long does a consultation take?
Quick answer: Usually about 15–30 minutes. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, the consultation covers your goals, medical history, a skin assessment by a licensed doctor and a clear plan with prices, all in English. If you go ahead with treatment the same day, allow extra time for numbing and the procedure itself: about 1–2 hours in total for most treatments, and longer for lifting such as Thermage FLX or Ulthera.
- Consultation: Usually 15–30 minutes
- Language: English
- With same-day treatment: Allow about 1–2 hours in total
- Lifting with numbing: Allow longer; numbing alone can take 30–40 minutes
- What to bring: Photo ID, medication list, past treatment details and travel dates
- Booking: Recommended in advance; walk-ins depend on availability
The detailed answer
A consultation is where your doctor learns what you want and checks what is realistic and safe. Most take 15–30 minutes. A simple request, such as one area of Botox, may be quicker; a plan combining lifting, injectables and lasers takes longer, because there is more to explain and more options to weigh.
What happens during a consultation
- Your goals: what bothers you, what you have tried and how long you are in Seoul.
- Medical history: medications, allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding, recent treatments and skin conditions.
- Skin assessment: the doctor examines skin quality, laxity, pigment or muscle activity.
- Plan and price: recommended treatments, doses or shots, expected downtime and an itemized price.
- Questions: time to ask anything before you decide.
The doctor may also tell you that a treatment is not needed, or that a different option suits your goals better. A consultation is a conversation, not a commitment, so you can take time to decide.
Our guide to questions to ask at your consultation helps you use the time well, and your first visit to a Korean skin clinic explains how clinics in Seoul typically work.
Planning your total visit time
| Visit type | Typical total time |
|---|---|
| Consultation only | About 15–30 minutes, plus check-in |
| Botox or a quick laser | About 45–60 minutes |
| Skin boosters with numbing | About 1–1.5 hours |
| Lifting such as Thermage FLX or Ulthera Prime | About 1.5–2.5 hours |
These are general estimates; your doctor will confirm timing for your plan.
What we recommend
Bring photo ID, a list of medications and supplements, details of previous treatments and your travel dates. Do not plan a tight connection straight after your appointment. If you are considering injectables, skip alcohol the night before; if you are considering lasers, ask whether to pause retinol a few days ahead. Read how to prepare for your appointment, see how it works for the full visit process and browse our FAQ for more answers. Booking ahead helps you get the time you want; see do I need to book in advance? Then book a consultation.
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Tell us your concerns and your travel dates. A doctor examines your skin in person, explains your options in English, and confirms the plan and price before anything is done.
FAQ
Related questions
Straight answers from our medical team. Still unsure? Ask a doctor or browse all patient questions .
Can I have treatment on the same day as my consultation?
Often yes, if the doctor agrees it is suitable and there is time in the schedule. Some treatments need preparation or a different day, which your doctor will explain.
Is the consultation in English?
Yes. See English consultations at Dernia.
What should I bring?
Photo ID such as your passport, a list of medications and supplements, details of previous cosmetic treatments and your travel dates.
Should I stop retinol before my appointment?
For lasers and microneedling, usually yes, for a few days. See should I stop retinol before treatment?
Keep exploring
Related treatments, prices and guides
Your visit
- How it works — from booking to aftercare
- International patients — planning a visit from abroad
- Medical team — who treats you
- Location and directions — getting to Myeongdong
Guides
- First visit to a Korean skin clinic — what to expect
- Questions to ask at your consultation — a checklist
- How to prepare for your appointment — before you arrive
Related questions
- Do you offer consultations in English? — language and clarity
- Do I need to book in advance? — booking tips
- What currency are prices in? — KRW and VAT
Plan your visit to Dernia Clinic Myeongdong
English consultations, clear prices in Korean won and treatment plans built around your time in Seoul. Tell us your dates and we will suggest a schedule that fits.
Individual results vary. Suitability, dosage and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor at your consultation. Prices are in Korean won (KRW) and exclude 10% VAT. Medical disclaimer