Facial Feminisation Surgery (FFS) is a life-changing set of procedures that help create softer, more feminine facial features. For many transgender women and non-binary individuals, FFS is an essential step in their journey toward feeling comfortable and confident in their own skin.
South Korea has emerged as a world-leading destination for FFS, combining exceptional surgical expertise, advanced medical technology, and significantly lower costs than Western countries. When you work with glamjet.com.au, you gain access to South Korea's top specialists along with comprehensive support that makes your entire journey smooth and stress-free.
What is Facial Feminisation Surgery?
Facial Feminisation Surgery isn't just one procedure. It's a customised combination of surgical techniques designed to soften masculine facial features and create a more feminine appearance. The specific procedures you need depend on your unique facial structure and personal goals.
Think of it like tailoring a suit: an experienced surgeon assesses your face and recommends only the procedures that will create the most natural, harmonious results for you specifically.
Common FFS procedures include:
3-Point Facial Contouring (Complete Lower Face Feminisation): A popular Korean surgical technique that transforms the entire lower face by refining three key areas simultaneously: the cheekbones, jawline, and chin. This comprehensive approach combines cheekbone reduction, jaw angle reduction (square jaw), and genioplasty (chin reshaping) in one surgery to create dramatic feminisation. By addressing all three points together, surgeons achieve balanced, harmonious facial proportions—transforming a broad, angular, masculine lower face into a soft, delicate V-shaped or oval feminine contour. This is one of the most transformative FFS procedures, particularly effective for patients with prominent facial bone structure. From 25,000,000 won (~A$26,800 AUD or USD $17,600)
V-Line Surgery: Creates a soft, feminine V-shaped facial contour by reducing the square jaw angles and reshaping the chin. The result is a delicate, tapered lower face that appears unmistakably feminine instead of angular and masculine. From 7,500,000 won for genioplasty (~A$8,000 or USD $5,300). From 9,800,000 for jaw reduction (~A$10,500 or USD $6,900)
Cheekbone Surgery: Reduces overly prominent or wide cheekbones to create a slimmer mid-face width. This narrows the face for a more delicate, feminine appearance and improves facial proportions. From 9,500,000 KRW for cheekbone reduction (~A$10,200 or USD $6,700)
Forehead Reduction: Moves the hairline forward to shorten forehead height. This creates better facial balance and a softer, more feminine upper face addressing the common masculine trait of a high, long forehead. From 9,500,000 KRW for forehead reduction (~A$10,200 or USD $6,700)
Brow Bone Reduction Type 3: The most advanced technique for eliminating prominent brow ridges. The frontal bone is carefully removed, thinned, reshaped, and reconstructed with titanium plates to create a smooth, naturally feminine forehead without any bossing or protrusion. From 9,500,000 KRW (~A$10,200 or USD 6,680)
Endotine Forehead Lift: A method to lift forehead and brow using special bio-absorbable devices (Endotine prothesis approved by FDA) that grip and elevate the brows to a more feminine position. This prevents drooping and sagging while maintaining natural-looking and semi-permanent results up to 10 years. From 9,000,000 KRW (~A$ 9,600 or USD$ 6,300)
Rhinoplasty: Refines the nose into smaller, more delicate proportions with a slight upward tip rotation characteristic of feminine noses. Reduces overall nose size while creating graceful, balanced features that harmonize with your face. Simple open rhinoplasty with implant from 6,000,000 KRW (~A$ 6,400 or USD $4,200). Open rhinoplasty with tip and long nose correction from 9,000,000 won (~A$9,700 or USD $6,300). Rhinoplasty with hump, alar reduction, tip plasty from 12,400,000 KRW (~A$13,300 or USD$8,700). Rhinoplasty with rib cartilage from $16,000,000 KRW (~A$17,200 or USD $11,200).
Upper Blepharoplasty & Double Eyelid Surgery: Creates or enhances the double eyelid crease while removing excess skin. This opens up the eyes, making them appear larger, brighter, and more feminine which is a highly desirable feature in facial feminisation. From 3,000,000 KRW (~A$ 3,220 or USD$2,100)
Fat Grafting Face With Stemcells/PRP: Enhanced fat transfer using Platelet-Rich Plasma/stemcells to add volume and create softer, more feminine facial contours in areas like the cheeks, temples, and lips with improved graft survival 5,000,000 KRW (~A$ 5,400 or USD $3,500)
Buccal Fat Removal: With patients with fuller and rounder lower cheeks, they make patients look more masculine. Feminine faces show more defined cheekbones with subtle hollowing beneath. Removing the buccal fat pads creates gentle shadowing under the cheekbones, resulting in a more sculpted, heart-shaped facial contour that appears distinctly feminine. From 3,000,000 KRW (~A$3,200 or USD $ 2,110)
Philtrum Lift: Masculine faces typically have a longer distance between the nose and upper lip (philtrum), while feminine faces feature a shorter, more delicate philtrum that creates youthful, balanced proportions. A philtrum lift (lip lift) shortens this distance by removing a small strip of skin just beneath the nose, simultaneously creating more visible upper lip and a softer, more feminine appearance that enhances overall facial harmony
Why South Korea is the Premier Destination for FFS
World-Renowned Surgical Expertise
South Korea isn't just good at cosmetic surgery. It's literally the cosmetic surgery capital of the world. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, South Korea has the highest rate of cosmetic procedures per capita globally (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2022).
Why Korea is great place for FFS surgery?
Exceptional attention to detail: Korean surgical culture emphasises precision and natural-looking results. Surgeons spend years perfecting their techniques and are known internationally for their meticulous approach.
Aesthetic sensibility: Korean beauty standards prioritise soft, harmonious facial features. Korean surgeons understand the subtle differences that create feminine versus masculine faces and have extensive experience creating natural, beautiful results.
High procedure volume: Because cosmetic surgery is so common in Korea, surgeons perform these procedures far more frequently than surgeons in most other countries. This repetition translates directly into superior skills and better outcomes. Many Korean FFS surgeons perform these specific procedures multiple times per week, accumulating experience that would take decades to achieve elsewhere.
Advanced training: Korean plastic surgeons undergo rigorous training programs and many have studied or worked internationally, combining Korean precision with global best practices.
Cost-Effectiveness Without Compromising Quality
You can receive world-class FFS at a fraction of Western costs.
Comprehensive FFS Cost Comparison (3-4 procedures):
- United States: over $100,000 - $150,000 USD
- United Kingdom: over £80,000 - £100,000
- Australia: over $70,000 - $100,000 AUD
- South Korea: over $30,000-$50,000 AUD
That's a savings of 60-75% compared to having the same procedures done in Australia or the United States, while receiving care from surgeons who are arguably more experienced in these specific procedures.
Cheaper means lower quality?
Why are Korean prices so much lower? It's not because of lower quality. It's due to:
- Lower overall operating costs in Korea
- High competition among clinics driving prices down
- Government support for medical tourism
- Streamlined, efficient healthcare systems
- Higher procedure volumes allowing clinics to operate more efficiently
The BBC and other major news outlets have documented how South Korea's medical tourism industry has made high-quality cosmetic procedures accessible to international patients at reasonable prices (BBC News, 2019).
Advanced Medical Infrastructure
South Korea has invested heavily in its medical infrastructure. The country's hospitals and clinics feature:
- State-of-the-art surgical facilities with the latest technology
- Some hospitals use advanced 3D imaging and computer-assisted surgical planning
- Modern recovery facilities designed for international patients
- Rigorous safety standards and accreditation systems
- High standards of cleanliness and infection control
The World Health Organization consistently ranks South Korea's healthcare system among the world's best for quality and accessibility (World Health Organization, 2021).
Comprehensive All-Inclusive Packages By Booking With glamjet.com.au
Many Korean clinics offer all-inclusive packages specifically designed for international patients. These typically include:
- All surgical fees: Surgeon fees, anaesthesia, operating room charges
- Hospital stay: Typically one night for monitoring after surgery
- Post-operative care: Follow-up appointments, dressing changes, suture removal
- Medications when hospitalised: Pain management and antibiotics during recovery
- Airport pickup and drop-off: Private transportation to and from the airport if your surgery is over $15,000 AUD. If your surgery is under, Glamjet offer this service at $150 AUD/trip
- Translation services: Complimentary medical interpreters who accompany you to consultation and surgery. If your surgery is over $15,000 AUD, glamjet offers this service at $75 AUD/hour.
- Accommodation assistance: Help booking recovery accommodations near the clinic
This comprehensive approach removes the stress and uncertainty of coordinating multiple aspects of medical travel yourself. To get a free quote, please fill in our consultation form: https://form.jotform.com/glamjetofficial/request-free-quotes
Common FFS Procedures Explained in Detail
Brow Bone Reduction Type III
This is often the cornerstone of FFS because the brow bone is one of the most distinctive differences between masculine and feminine faces.
The procedure: For more prominent brow bone, Glamjet's surgeon performs what's called "Type III forehead reconstruction" carefully removing a section of frontal bone, reshaping it, and securing it back in place with tiny titanium plates. This allows for more dramatic reshaping while protecting the frontal sinus cavity behind the bone. Surgical time is about 2 hours under general anaesthesia. One hospitalisation night is required. Stitches removal after 7-10 days after the surgery.
Recovery: Expect significant swelling for the first week, with most swelling subsiding within 2-3 weeks. Full results become apparent after 3-6 months once all internal healing is complete.
Impact: This procedure often creates the most dramatic feminisation effect, as the brow area significantly influences how we perceive faces.
Rhinoplasty for Feminisation
Feminine noses typically have different characteristics than masculine noses:
- More refined, smaller nasal tip
- Gentler slope from forehead to nose
- Less projection
- Narrower nasal bridge in proportion to face width
The procedure: Korean surgeons are world-renowned for rhinoplasty, performing thousands of these procedures annually. They can refine the nasal tip, reduce the bridge height, narrow the nostrils, and adjust the angle between the nose and upper lip to create a more feminine appearance. Stitches removal after 7-14 days depends on techniques and surgeons. Rib cartilage rhinoplasty takes longer to heal.
Recovery: Initial swelling subsides within 2 weeks, though final results take 6-12 months as subtle swelling resolves completely.
Vline Surgery
Square, wide jaws read as masculine, while tapered, V-shaped jaws appear more feminine.
The procedure: A long curve V-line plastic surgery is a surgical method that not
only trims the angular jawbone but also utilises a special saw for surgery to elongate and smooth the front of the jawline as much as possible without disturbing the nerve line. It combines procedures like cortical resection, buccal fat removal, and masseter muscle reduction to create a perfect V-line according to the individual's condition.By resecting from the subauricular region to the wide lateral jawbone, we create a natural jawline without a secondary angle. Cortical removal: Along with square jaw surgery, our surgeons maximise the removal of the cortical bone layer to enhance the frontal effect. Masseter muscle reduction: By using high-frequency technology, our surgeons maximise the effect by eliminating the muscles that protrude suddenly in the molar region. Deep cheek fat removal: Removing deep and large fat deposits in the deep cheek area along with square jaw surgery enhances the effectiveness.
Recovery:
Surgery takes 1 hour. No hospitalisation required. Return to daily life 5-7 days later. Expect 2 weeks of significant facial swelling. You'll need to eat soft foods for a few weeks. Most swelling resolves within 6-8 weeks, with final results visible after 3-6 months.
Note: Korean surgeons have particular expertise in jaw reduction procedures, as these are among the most commonly requested cosmetic surgeries in Korea.
Cheekbone Reduction
Wide and protruding zygomatic bones are one of the factors that make the face appear broader. By identifying the protruding area of the zygomatic bone at a 45-degree angle, the Lateral Zygoma Reduction Surgery moves the protruding zygoma forward to the ideal point where the anterior zygoma should have volume. This results in a smaller face and a more defined appearance due to the fuller anterior zygoma. Prominent and angular zygomatic lines can give a rough and fierce appearance. Precisely identifying the most voluminous part of the lateral zygomatic bone and performing reduction, the zygoma is gently rotated forward. This not only creates a slender and smaller
face line but also contributes to a charming and softened expression.
The procedure: Surgeons carefully reduce the zygomatic arch (cheekbone) through incisions inside the mouth or hairline to create softer facial contours. Surgery time is about 1 hour under general anaesthesia. Stitches removal are done after 2 weeks.
Recovery: Similar to jaw reduction, expect 2-3 weeks of noticeable swelling with continued improvement over 3-6 months.
Brow Lift
Feminine eyebrows sit higher on the forehead with a more pronounced arch compared to masculine eyebrows.
The procedure: Surgeons elevate the eyebrow position through small incisions in the hairline or endoscopic techniques. This opens up the eye area and creates a more feminine appearance.
Recovery: 1-2 weeks for visible recovery, with residual subtle swelling resolving over 2-3 months.
What to Expect: The Complete FFS Journey Timeline
Phase 1: Research and Initial Consultation (6-9 months before surgery)
Fill in consultation form: Fill in our consultation form here: https://form.jotform.com/glamjetofficial/request-free-quotes . Provide photos of your face from multiple angles according to our photo guide, your medical history, and describe your goals and concerns.
Get quotes: Glamjet.com.au can help you connect with the best surgeons in South Korea based on our experiences with specific expertise in facial feminisation, not just general cosmetic surgery. We will provide to you before-and-after photos, patient reviews, and credentials. We also explain the entire process and travel planning.
Virtual consultation: Most clinics in South Korea do not offer video consultations. Surgeons will give you treatment plans based on their professional opinions based on the assessment photos and medical information provided suggest which procedures would create the most natural and harmonious results. You will have a video consultation with glamjet team to discuss your plan. Limited video consultations are available with Nana Plastic Surgery when you book with glamjet.com.au. We can only provide this if you pay a deposit.
Receive your treatment plan: Glamjet will send you a detailed surgical plan including recommended procedures, timeline, costs, and what's included in your package prepared by the hospital and clinic.
Pay deposit to secure surgery dates: to book surgery dates, you'll need to pay 10-30% surgery deposits.
Apply for early release of super for life-changing transformation: we work with Access My Super to help you apply and stream line approval process. Access My Super will guide you on everything. You'll have to attend some tele-health consultations. We will need to submit treatment plan and surgeon's note from surgeon in South Korea, deposit payment receipt. Then you'll have to sign some documents. Our surgeons will need to sign as well. Usually you may get approval after 1 month. Then you have to call and email your super fund, it may take 2 weeks -1 months for your super to release fund.
If you are applying for other payment plans: we will help you with paperwork once you paid surgery deposit fee.
Book travel and accommodation: Arrange flights and accommodation for your recovery period. Most FFS patients need 2-3 weeks in Korea depending on the extent of their procedures. Glamjet.com.au can book for you or you can book yourself. We have partner rates at some hotels in Gangnam.
Check your travel documents: your passport must be valid for more than 6 months.
Where GlamJet adds tremendous values: Instead of researching dozens of clinics yourself, potentially communicating with language barriers, and trying to assess surgeon qualifications, we connect you directly with Korea's leading FFS specialists. We've already vetted these surgeons, reviewed their experience with international patients, and confirmed their expertise in facial feminisation specifically.
Phase 2: Planning and Preparation (3 months before surgery)
Prepare for recovery: Arrange time off work (typically 3-4 weeks minimum), organise someone to help you during early recovery if possible, and prepare your home for recovery before leaving.
For clients prone to keloid scar: Stop taking collagen supplements 1 month before
Stop blood thinning medication & vitamin (omega 3): 1 week before surgery.
Call your bank and inform about travel plans: surgery fees must be received before surgery can starts. Hospitals and clinics will not accept payments later. Please arrange payments well in advance to prevent your surgery dates being cancelled. The next availability maybe one to two months later. Then your trip would be a waste.
Phase 3: Arrival and Pre-Operative Appointments
Airport pickup: Our driver meets you at the airport and send you to your accommodation.
Settle in and rest: Overcome jet lag and prepare mentally for surgery. Buy some water, pumpkin juice, and soft food (porridges and juices) for next couple of days.
Pre-operative consultation: Meet your surgeon in person for health assessment, CT scan/Xray, confirm surgery plan, and to mark surgical areas. This is your opportunity to ask any last-minute questions and ensure you're completely comfortable with the plan. You must arrive for consultation on time. It's usually two days before surgery date. In case you are sick or unfit for surgery, your surgery will be cancelled. Complete any final medical checks required before surgery. Glamjet provides: translation services for appointments (complimentarily for booking over $15,000 AUD or $75 AUD/hour if your booking is under $15,000 AUD) and online support to answer questions and ensure you feel comfortable and prepared.
Phase 4: Surgery Day (Day 0)
Admission: Arrive at the hospital or clinic for surgery preparation and health assessment.
Surgery: Comprehensive FFS typically takes 4-8 hours depending on how many procedures you're having. You'll be under general anaesthesia and won't feel anything.
Recovery room: After surgery, you'll spend time in the recovery room where medical staff monitor you closely as you wake up from anaesthesia.
Overnight stay: Most patients stay overnight for monitoring. You'll have significant swelling, bandaging, and likely drains to remove excess fluid.
Phase 5: Early Recovery (Days 1-3)
Hospital discharge: Usually the day after surgery, once the medical team confirms you're stable and ready.
Rest and initial recovery: Expect to spend most of this time resting in your accommodation in the first 3 days except when you visit our partnered hospitals for post-operative care. You'll have significant facial swelling, bruising, and discomfort managed with pain medication.
Pain medication: to avoid drug abuse. Our doctors cannot give you names of medication online. They will give you appropriate one based on your condition and level of pain after surgery. They can change types of medication to manage pain and help you feel comfortable.
First follow-up: Return to the clinic for dressing changes, drain removal (if applicable), and the surgeon to check your initial healing.
Focus on: Following all post-operative instructions precisely, keeping your head elevated, applying cold compresses as directed, staying hydrated, and taking prescribed medications.
Post-op services: each hospital and clinics will have different programs for post-op care. By booking with glamjet.com.au, we'll help you get the best after-care. If you book a comprehensive package with us, we usually offer hyperbaric chamber, healite, hairwash, Iv drip, deep cleansing or hydrating skin treatment. For packages over 40,000,000 KRW, you'll get unlimited healite sessions and up to 3 sessions of medical grade hyperbaric chamber.
GlamJet support: Your translator accompanies you to all follow-up appointments. We check on you regularly, help coordinate any needs, and serve as your liaison with the medical team.
Phase 6: Continued Recovery (day 3-10)
Suture removal: Non-dissolvable sutures are typically removed between days 5-11 depending on the specific procedures and your healing progress.
Second follow-up: Check-ins with your surgeon to monitor healing, address any concerns, and ensure everything is progressing normally. Usually done after your post-op care.
Continue with post-op services: each hospital and clinics will have different programs for post-op care. By booking with glamjet.com.au, we'll help you get the best after-care. If you book a comprehensive package with us, we usually offer hyperbaric chamber, healite, hairwash, Iv drip, deep cleansing or hydrating skin treatment. For packages over 40,000,000 KRW, you'll get unlimited healite sessions and up to 3 sessions of medical grade hyperbaric chamber.
Gradual improvement: Swelling decreases noticeably during this period, though you'll still be quite swollen. Bruising begins fading. You can start gentle activities but nothing strenuous.
Dietary considerations: You may still need soft foods depending on your procedures, especially if you had jaw work done.
Phase 7: Stitches removal and return home (Days 10-15)
Final in-person consultation: Your surgeon examines your healing progress and provides instructions for continued care after you return home. For complex combination of surgeries, expect to stay in Korea for 14 days after your surgery date. After stitches removal, you can fly home the next day.
Phase 8: Long-Term Healing (Months 1-6)
Continued improvement: Swelling gradually decreases over months. Most visible swelling resolves within 4-6 weeks, but subtle swelling can persist for 3-6 months.
Final results: Your final results become apparent after 6-12 months once all internal healing is complete and any residual swelling has resolved.
Follow-up care: While you're home, you can send photos and questions to your Korean surgical team through glamjet.com.au. Please send us your photos for keeping track of healing progress. Please promptly inform us of any issues or discomfort that are abnormal. We can arrange tele health consult for you with surgeon overseas.
Why Choose GlamJet for Your FFS Journey in South Korea
We Connect You with Korea's Leading FFS Specialists
Not all cosmetic surgeons have experience with facial feminisation specifically. FFS requires understanding the subtle anatomical differences between masculine and feminine faces and how to create natural, harmonious results. We work exclusively with surgeons who:
- Specialise in facial feminisation surgery specifically
- Have performed hundreds of FFS cases and hundreds to thousands procedures like rhinoplasty, jaw contouring, brow bone reduction, blepharoplasty...
- Have extensive experience with international patients
- Understand the goals and needs of transgender women
- Demonstrate consistent, natural-looking results
- Maintain high standards of patient care and ethics
Comprehensive Support Throughout Your Journey
Coordinating medical travel yourself means managing dozens of details: researching clinics, communicating across language barriers, arranging travel and accommodation, navigating a foreign city while recovering from surgery, and coordinating follow-up care. That's overwhelming when you're trying to focus on healing.
GlamJet handles everything:
Before Surgery:
- Connecting you with appropriate specialists based on your needs
- Coordinating virtual consultations
- Explaining procedures, costs, and what to expect
- Helping with travel planning and accommodation
- Providing pre-operative checklists and preparation guidance
- Answering all your questions throughout the planning process
During Your Stay:
- Airport pickup and transportation
- Professional medical translation services at all appointments
- On-ground support and coordination
- Regular check-ins to ensure you're comfortable and cared for
- Problem-solving if any issues arise
- Liaison between you and the medical team
After Surgery:
- Coordination of all follow-up appointments
- Ongoing communication with your surgical team
- Support connecting with Australian healthcare providers if needed
- Help with any questions or concerns during recovery
- Warranty and complication management if needed
This level of support is worth thousands of dollars if you were to hire translators, medical coordinators, and travel planners independently. With GlamJet, it's included in your comprehensive package.
Transparent Pricing with No Hidden Costs
When we quote you a price, it includes everything you need:
- All surgical fees
- Anaesthesia
- Operating room fees
- Hospital stay
- Post-operative care and follow-ups
- Translation services
- Airport transfers
- Coordination and support
You'll know exactly what you're paying upfront with no surprise bills or hidden costs.
Focus on Your Safety and Satisfaction
Your safety is our absolute priority. We only work with accredited facilities that meet international safety standards. We verify surgeon credentials, check patient safety records, and ensure clinics maintain appropriate protocols for international patients.
We're also committed to honest, realistic expectations. We'll never promise results that aren't achievable or recommend procedures you don't need. Our goal is your genuine satisfaction with natural-looking results that help you feel like yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does FFS cost in South Korea?
Comprehensive FFS in South Korea typically costs between $25,000 AUD-$60,000 AUD depending on which specific procedures you need and the clinic you choose. This is 60-75% less than similar procedures in Australia or the United States.
The price includes surgeon fees, anaesthesia, operating room charges, hospital stay, and routine follow-up care. All-inclusive packages with GlamJet also include translation services, airport transfers, and coordination support.
Individual procedures cost less if you only need specific treatments:
- Forehead reduction: 9,500,000 KRW for forehead reduction (~A$10,200 or USD $6,700)
- Rhinoplasty: from 12,400,000 KRW (~A$13,300 or USD$8,700) without rib cartilage and rhinoplasty with rib cartilage from $16,000,000 KRW (~A$17,200 or USD $11,200). For revision with rib cartilage, it'll start from $20,000,000 KRW -$29,000,000 KRW (from ~$ 21,600 AUD or 14,000 USD)
- Jaw reduction: from 7,500,000 won for genioplasty (~A$8,000 or USD $5,300).
- Cheekbone reduction: from 9,500,000 KRW (~A$10,200 or USD $6,700)
- Upper or lower blepharoplasty: f rom 3,000,000 KRW (~A$ 3,220 or USD$2,100)
Which country is best for FFS?
South Korea is widely considered one of the best destinations for FFS due to:
Surgical expertise: Korean surgeons perform cosmetic facial procedures more frequently than surgeons in most other countries, leading to exceptional skill levels. The emphasis on natural-looking results aligns perfectly with FFS goals.
Advanced technology: Korean clinics invest heavily in the latest surgical technology, 3D imaging, and computer-assisted planning.
Cost-effectiveness: Prices are significantly lower than Western countries without compromising quality.
Medical infrastructure: World-class hospitals and clinics with high safety standards.
Experience with international patients: The established medical tourism industry means clinics are well-equipped to serve international patients with translation services and comprehensive support.
Other countries also offer FFS, including Thailand, the United States, and various European countries. Each has advantages, but South Korea offers an exceptional combination of expertise, technology, safety, and value that's difficult to match elsewhere.
Where is the cheapest country to get FFS?
While several countries offer lower-cost FFS than Western nations, it's crucial to consider value rather than just price. The absolute cheapest options may involve significant compromises in surgeon experience, facility quality, or support services.
Countries offering affordable FFS include:
- South Korea: excellent value. High quality with the best specialists. Good medical system and premium after-care.
- Thailand: good quality, though facial surgeries are not as specialised like South Korea. The aesthetics in Korea are also softer, more feminine and natural.
- Mexico: varies significantly by clinic and surgeon
- Turkey: growing medical tourism sector with high risks. There have been news about patients waking up with kidneys being stolen.
Focusing solely on finding the cheapest option can be risky with facial surgery. Unlike procedures that can be revised relatively easily, facial bone work is largely permanent. Choosing an experienced specialist even if it costs moderately more provides better value through superior results, fewer complications, and greater satisfaction.
South Korea offers the best balance: significantly lower costs than Western countries while maintaining exceptional quality, experienced surgeons, and comprehensive support for international patients. Glamet.com.au connects you with the best specialists overseas so that you can save more than what you pay in home country without compromising on quality.
Which country has the best facial feminisation surgery?
This depends on how you define "best," but South Korea consistently ranks at the top for several reasons:
Surgeon experience: The high volume of cosmetic facial procedures in Korea means surgeons accumulate extensive experience more rapidly than counterparts elsewhere. Many Korean FFS specialists perform these procedures multiple times weekly, providing exposure to diverse facial types and challenges.
Aesthetic results: Korean surgical techniques emphasize natural-looking, harmonious results rather than obvious surgical changes. This philosophy aligns perfectly with FFS goals of creating authentic feminine features.
Technical innovation: Korea's competitive cosmetic surgery market drives continuous innovation in techniques and technology.
Safety records: Korean medical facilities maintain excellent safety standards with low complication rates. Glamjet.com.au works with hospitals that have zero incidents.
Patient satisfaction: Reviews from international FFS patients consistently highlight excellent results and positive experiences in South Korea.
The United States also has excellent FFS surgeons, particularly a few specialists who focus exclusively on transgender facial surgery. However, costs are typically 3-4 times higher than Korea for comparable or sometimes less experienced surgeons.
Thailand has developed a strong reputation for transgender surgeries and offers quality FFS, though it's generally known more for gender confirmation surgeries than facial work specifically.
Ultimately, the "best" country depends on your priorities. If you value exceptional surgical skill, advanced technology, comprehensive support, and reasonable costs, South Korea represents an outstanding choice.
Important Considerations Before Committing
Set Realistic Expectations
FFS can create significant improvements in facial feminisation, but it's important to understand what's achievable. Your results depend on your starting facial structure, which procedures you undergo, and your individual healing process.
The goal is creating a more feminine version of your own face not looking like someone else or achieving perfection. Discuss your expectations honestly with your surgeon during consultations to ensure they're realistic and achievable.
Understand the Recovery Commitment
FFS recovery requires time and patience. You'll experience:
- Significant swelling and bruising for 2-3 weeks
- Discomfort managed with pain medication
- Dietary restrictions (soft foods) for several weeks if you have jaw work
- Activity restrictions for 4-6 weeks
- Continued subtle swelling for 3-6 months
Plan for at least 3-4 weeks off work or other obligations. You'll be functional after 2-3 weeks but won't look "normal" yet. Full results take 6-12 months to develop as swelling completely resolves.
Consider Psychological Readiness
FFS is emotionally significant. While most patients experience profound positive impacts on their wellbeing and gender dysphoria, the immediate post-operative period can be challenging. You'll look worse before you look better due to swelling and bruising.
Ensure you have emotional support during recovery, realistic expectations about the timeline, and patience for the healing process. Many patients find connecting with others who've had FFS helpful for understanding what to expect emotionally.
Plan Finances Carefully
While Korean FFS is significantly cheaper than Western alternatives, it's still a substantial investment. Beyond surgical costs, budget for:
- Flights to and from Korea
- Accommodation for 2-3 weeks
- Meals and incidentals
- Time off work
- Possible additional costs if you need revision work (rare but possible)
Glamjet.com.au offers payment plans and financing options to make FFS more accessible without requiring full payment upfront. Please read our detailed blog here.
Getting Started with GlamJet
Ready to take the next step toward facial feminisation surgery in South Korea?
Step 1: Initial Inquiry
Contact GlamJet through our website at or call our team on 0402555579. We'll discuss your goals, answer initial questions, and explain our process.
Step 2: Submit Information
Please fill in our consultation form. Provide photos of your face from multiple angles, your medical history, and description of what you hope to achieve. This allows us to match you with appropriate surgeons and provide preliminary recommendations.
Step 3: Virtual Consultation
We'll arrange video consultation with you. We will show you surgeons' works and help you choose a team of experts for your transformation. You can ask questions regarding surgeons, hospitals, and surgeries.
Step 4: Receive Your Comprehensive Plan
You'll receive a detailed surgical plan including recommended procedures, timeline, complete costs, what's included, and answers to all your questions.
Step 5: Make Your Decision
To book surgery dates, you'll need to pay 10-30% deposits. Our surgeons are booked 3-9 months in advance. Please act quickly to avoid disappointments. We cannot hold any surgery dates without deposits.
Step 6: Book and Plan
Once you're ready to proceed, we'll coordinate everything: scheduling surgery, arranging travel and accommodation, preparing you for what to expect, and ensuring every detail is managed.
Final Thoughts
Facial Feminisation Surgery in South Korea represents an exceptional opportunity to work with world-class surgeons, benefit from advanced medical technology, and achieve natural, beautiful results at a fraction of Western costs.
With GlamJet, you're not just booking surgery. You're gaining a dedicated partner who handles every detail, provides comprehensive support, and ensures your journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
You deserve to feel comfortable and confident. FFS can help you achieve that, and we're here to make it happen with expertise, care, and unwavering support throughout your entire journey.
Contact GlamJet today to begin your facial feminisation journey in South Korea.
facial feminisation surgery south koreaReferences
BBC News (2019) 'South Korea's plastic surgery boom', BBC News, 2 May, available at: https://www.bbc.com/news [Accessed 15 October 2025].
International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (2022) 'ISAPS International Survey on Aesthetic/Cosmetic Procedures', International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, available at: https://www.isaps.org [Accessed 15 October 2025].
World Health Organization (2021) 'World Health Statistics 2021: Monitoring Health for the SDGs', World Health Organization, Geneva, available at: https://www.who.int [Accessed 15 October 2025].