Day-by-Day Recovery Guide: Your First 10 Days After Plastic Surgery in Korea (What International Patients Can Expect)

koreanplasticsurge
5 days ago
2 min read

Introduction: Why the First 10 Days Matter

Plastic surgery in Korea is safe, advanced, and affordable. But what happens after the procedure is just as important as the surgery itself. The first 10 days of recovery determine how well you heal and how natural your results look.

This guide will walk you through day-by-day expectations so you can plan your stay in Korea with confidence.

plastic surgery recovery korea

Day 1: Surgery Day

Surgery duration: usually 1–6 hours, depending on procedure.
After surgery: you’ll rest in a recovery room under monitoring.
Common side effects: swelling, bruising, mild discomfort.
Most patients return to their hotel the same day or after one night in the clinic.

👉 Tip: Arrange for a friend or translator to accompany you.

Day 2–3: Initial Swelling and Rest

Swelling and bruising are most visible now.
Clinics provide cold packs, pain medication, and swelling treatments.
Light walking helps with circulation.
Avoid salty foods and alcohol, which worsen swelling.

👉 Expect to stay indoors and rest.

Day 4–5: First Check-Up

You’ll usually return to the clinic for a follow-up exam.
For eyelid surgery: possible stitch removal.
For rhinoplasty: nasal splints may remain in place.
Swelling starts to decrease gradually.

👉 Patients often feel well enough to do light shopping or sightseeing nearby.

Day 6–7: Stitches Removal & Visible Improvement

Most stitches are removed by day 5–7.
Swelling decreases, bruising starts fading.
You may begin aftercare treatments like laser therapy or lymphatic massage.
Patients often feel comfortable going outside with sunglasses or light makeup.

Day 8–10: Recovery Progress

By the end of the first 10 days, you’ll notice a significant improvement.
Remaining swelling is mild and usually only visible to you.
Many patients feel confident enough to return home or back to work.
Clinics provide final instructions for continued aftercare.

What to Avoid During the First 10 Days

Heavy exercise or lifting
Saunas, spas, and swimming
Smoking or drinking alcohol
Sleeping face-down (for facial procedures)

After 10 Days: Long-Term Healing

Swelling continues to improve over the next 2–3 weeks.
Final results take 3–6 months, depending on the procedure.
Online consultations are available once you return home.

Why Plan 10–14 Days in Korea?

Most international patients schedule 10–14 days in Korea to allow for:

Surgery
Follow-up visits
Stitches removal
Early recovery before flying home

This timeline ensures you’re safe to travel and comfortable on your return journey.

How KoreanPlasticSurgery.info Helps You Recover

We support your entire journey, not just the surgery:

Connect you with clinics that provide comprehensive aftercare packages
Ensure multilingual support during follow-ups
Help with recovery-friendly hotels and services
Offer 24/7 support for patient concerns

👉 With us, your recovery in Korea is smooth, safe, and stress-free.

Conclusion: Healing Day by Day

The first 10 days after plastic surgery are crucial for proper healing. By following your clinic’s instructions and planning your trip around this timeline, you’ll set yourself up for beautiful, natural results.

👉 Ready to start your journey in Korea?