Quick answer: Botox (botulinum toxin) relaxes targeted muscles to soften wrinkles and reshape areas such as the jaw. In Busan the most common areas are the forehead, frown lines, crow's feet and masseter muscles. Treatment takes 10 to 20 minutes, results appear within 3 to 7 days and last about 3 to 4 months. Typical 2026 prices range from about ₩30,000 to ₩300,000 per area.
Common treatment areas
- Forehead lines: horizontal lines from raising the brows.
- Frown lines (glabella): the "11" lines between the brows.
- Crow's feet: lines at the outer corners of the eyes.
- Jaw (masseter): slims a square lower face and reduces clenching.
- Trapezius: softens bulky shoulder muscles for a longer neck line.
- Skin Botox: very fine, shallow injections for pores and oil.
- Other areas: gummy smile, chin dimpling, calves and sweating.
Korean vs imported toxins
Korean clinics offer both domestic toxins and imported brands such as Botox (Allergan) or Xeomin. Korean products are widely used and cheaper, while imported brands cost more and some patients prefer them for perceived consistency or lower resistance risk. Ask which brand and how many units you will receive.
What to expect
- Consultation and marking of injection points.
- Optional numbing cream or ice.
- Several quick injections with a fine needle.
- Small bumps that settle within 15 to 30 minutes.
How long it lasts
Wrinkle results usually last 3 to 4 months. Masseter and trapezius treatments may last 4 to 6 months, and repeated sessions can extend results as the muscles shrink.
Side effects and safety
- Minor bruising or tenderness at injection sites.
- Mild headache for a day.
- Rarely, eyelid or brow heaviness from spread, which is temporary.
- Chewing fatigue after jaw Botox for a few weeks.
Choose a registered clinic, confirm the product and units, and tell the doctor about pregnancy, neuromuscular conditions or medications.
Aftercare
- Stay upright for 4 hours.
- Do not rub or massage treated areas that day.
- Avoid saunas, alcohol and intense exercise for 24 hours.
How many units do you need?
The dose of botulinum toxin is measured in units, and the number needed depends on the area, muscle strength and toxin brand. Small areas such as crow's feet use relatively few units, while the forehead and frown lines need a moderate dose and the masseter or trapezius muscles need the most. Men often need higher doses than women because their muscles are stronger. Ask the clinic to write down the brand and total units for each area.
Botox prices in Busan
Indicative 2026 prices in Busan range from about ₩30,000 to ₩300,000 per area. Korean-made toxins sit at the lower end, while imported brands such as Botox (Allergan) or Xeomin cost more. Jaw Botox typically costs about ₩50,000 to ₩300,000 for both sides, and sweat Botox for both underarms about ₩200,000 to ₩600,000.
Preparing for your appointment
- Avoid alcohol for a day before treatment to reduce bruising.
- If medically safe, avoid blood-thinning supplements such as fish oil or high-dose vitamin E for a few days beforehand.
- Arrive with clean skin or allow time to remove makeup.
- Bring a list of medications and any history of previous Botox and how you responded.
Botox resistance and how to reduce the risk
A small number of people develop antibodies that make Botox less effective over time. Risk factors include frequent high doses and short intervals between treatments. To reduce the risk, wait at least three months between sessions, use the lowest effective dose, and consider purified toxins if you need large areas treated regularly.
When to choose a different treatment
Botox works on lines caused by movement. Lines that remain visible at rest, volume loss and sagging respond better to fillers, skin boosters or lifting devices. Many clinics combine Botox with these treatments for a more complete result.
Planning Botox during a trip to Busan
Botox takes only 10 to 20 minutes and has minimal downtime, though you should stay upright for four hours and avoid saunas for a day. Results appear in 3 to 7 days, so treatment early in a trip lets you see the effect before you leave. Most international visitors stay in Seomyeon, the city's largest clinic district and a central subway hub, or in Haeundae and Centum City near the beach. Seomyeon is about 35 minutes from Gimhae International Airport by light rail and subway and about 12 minutes from Busan Station (KTX) on Line 1, while Haeundae is about 30 to 40 minutes further east on Line 2. Book your consultation before you arrive, share your travel dates with the clinic, and leave at least one buffer day before your flight in case you want a follow-up check.
Questions to ask at your consultation
- Which toxin brand do you use, and how many units for each area?
- Do you offer a free touch-up check after two weeks?
- Should any area be treated more conservatively for a natural look?
- Is the clinic registered with HIRA, and who will perform the treatment?
- Does the written quote include VAT, numbing cream and any follow-up visit?
- How can I contact the clinic with questions after I return home?
Frequently asked questions
When will I see results?
Usually after 3 to 7 days, with full effect at about 2 weeks.
Can I fly after Botox?
Yes, though waiting 24 hours is often advised.
How often can I repeat it?
Most doctors recommend waiting at least 3 months between sessions.
Can Botox be reversed?
There is no instant reversal, but effects wear off naturally over three to four months.
Is Botox safe for long-term use?
Decades of medical and cosmetic use show a good safety profile when given by qualified doctors at appropriate doses.
Can I combine Botox areas in one session?
Yes. Forehead, frown lines and crow's feet are often treated together, and the doctor will plan the total dose so the result looks balanced and natural.
What if one side looks different?
Minor asymmetry can be corrected with a small touch-up after about two weeks, once the toxin has fully taken effect.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Figures and prices are indicative and may change; always confirm details with a licensed physician and request a written quote before any procedure.
