Is getting facial treatments in Gangnam most feared for turning you into a “plastic face”? LIOL Dermatology’s in-depth test: How 3D diagnosis plus consultations with two doctors help achieve a natural, youthful look
On this trip to Seoul, I scheduled my cosmetic procedures in the Cheongdam area of Gangnam. The reason is quite practical: although this place has a luxurious vibe, it does have plenty of high-end clinics, all equipped with top-notch facilities and staffed by doctors with impressive backgrounds. Many people ask me about “LIOL Dermatology in South Korea.” After visiting their clinic on the 11th floor of 138 Isanda-ro, my conclusion is that it’s not one of those chain stores focused on low-cost group deals—it’s rather a clinic where the doctor takes the time to thoroughly assess your face before deciding whether treatment is necessary. In this article, I’ll share my actual experience and observations with you.
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LIOL Dermatology in South K orea (리올의원) 11th Floor, 138 D
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Why did I choose LIOL among all the clinics in Gangnam?
To be honest, there are so many Dermatology clinics in Gangnam that it’s overwhelming. The reason I chose LIOL this time was mainly due to three factors: first, they emphasize 3D dermatological diagnosis—no hasty conclusions based just on a quick glance by the clinic director; second, both Cho Hyun-dae and Lee Joo-hyun serve as representative directors, and having both male and female directors isn’t common in clinics; third, there are numerous online reviews praising their commitment to avoiding unnecessary treatments and not pushing expensive package deals, which is crucial for those worried about ending up with an over-enhanced appearance.
The appointment was set for Thursday afternoon. Exit No. 3 at the Apgujeong Rodeo station, walk along Isudamsan-ro for about 5 minutes, then take the elevator in Building 138 straight to the 11th floor. My first impression upon entering was that the space wasn’t large, but it was very quiet—no crowded chaos like in a typical lobby. The receptionist took me straight to a private waiting area, which immediately helped me relax.
Reference price range for 2026 (subject to consultation with the director)
LIOL doesn’t publish a complete price list on its official website. The following are the reference prices I gathered from the doctor’s page on BeautsGO and local South Korea platforms. It’s important to note that this clinic follows a system where consultations are conducted by the chief physician in person, and prices may vary based on 3D diagnosis results and personalized treatment plans. It’s recommended to schedule a consultation first before making a decision.
| Project | Reference Price (KRW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reservation fee | 50,000 | Refundable for canceled appointments on the same day; no refund otherwise |
| sleep anesthesia | 220,000 | Monitored by an anesthesiologist with spontaneous breathing |
| Second Generation Ulthrea | Quotation based on quantity and scope | Add extra copies based on 3D diagnosis |
| American Version of 5th Generation Thermage FLX | Quotation based on quantity and scope | The director personally adjusts the energy parameters. |
| Juvelook Natural Botox + Filler | Quotation based on dosage and treatment area | Focused on youthful facial support |
| Customized Asce+ Exosomes Management | Quotation based on the plan | On-site formulation to reduce redness and Pores |
| Special Filling (Elf Ears / Shoulders / Brow Bones) | Quotation based on treatment area and number of centum cores | Dr. Zhao Xian’s Signature Procedures |
*The prices listed above are reference rates from the platform and local sources, not fixed quotes from LIOL. The final price will be determined based on a personalized plan formulated after a consultation with the two attending physicians.
Experience it in person: 3D diagnosis → in-person consultation with the director → treatment
The entire process, from scheduling the appointment to leaving, takes about 2.5 hours. The first step isn’t to meet with the director right away, but rather to undergo a 3D skin imaging scan. This device captures detailed IPCHEA-style data of the face, including information on areas of depression, muscle patterns, deep-seated spots, and regions where Collagen has been lost. Once the report is ready, the director will review the data with you and explain which areas lack sufficient bone support, which have sagging fat pads, and which actually don’t require any treatment.
This time, I mainly wanted to address my Nasolabial Fold Correction and mild sagging in the cheeks. After reviewing the 3D report, Dr. Zhao’s first words were, “Your issue isn’t sagging per se, but rather a lack of support in this area.” Instead of immediately recommending high-dose Fillers, he suggested starting with small amounts applied in multiple spots combined with Juvelook, a collagen-stimulating gel, before reassessing whether further treatment is needed after three months. This “reduce first, then add” approach is completely different from the pushy tactics I encountered at other clinics I’ve been to.
Two directors, two areas of expertise
Dr. Cho Hyun is a graduate of Hanyang University School of Medicine. She has previously served as the director at the Gangnam branch of Muse Clinic and at Pladen Plastic Surgery. She specializes in using energy-based devices and performing precise injections, especially for complex fillings that require meticulous attention to layering—such as ear reshaping, shoulder contouring, and brow bone enhancement. Dr. Lee Joo-hyun, on the other hand, graduated from Korea University and Chungnam National University School of Medicine. She has also held positions as a director at Muse’s Gangnam branch and at Pladen. Her approach focuses more on a feminine perspective, emphasizing that “a youthful appearance is more important than just filling effects.” She enjoys a good reputation for her skillful layered Filler injections and precise Thermage treatments.
The advantage of having two directors is that it allows both masculine contours and feminine delicacy to be properly understood. If you come as a couple or spouse pair, each can meet with their respective director for a consultation, which makes the aesthetic discussion much smoother.
Dr. Zhao Xian, Chief Physician
Dr. Lee Joo-hyun
Focus Point 1｜3D Scientific Diagnosis: It’s Not “I Think You Should Get an Injection”
This is LIOL’s biggest differentiator. While many clinics start giving quotes right after just a 5-minute in-person consultation, here you first have to take 3D imaging scans, after which the director uses the data to explain things to you. For someone like me who is wary of being pushed into unnecessary treatments, this approach of relying on data builds much more trust. The downside is that the whole process takes longer—it’s recommended to schedule at least 2 hours.
Focus Point 2｜Dual Director System: Catering to Both Men’s and Women’s Aesthetic Needs
Both Dr. Zhao Xianda and Dr. Li Zhouxian are actual practicing directors, not just nominal titles. Dr. Zhao specializes in contouring and energy-based treatments, while Dr. Li excels in precision injections and anti-aging treatments. When making an appointment, you can specify which director you’d like to consult based on your needs, but slots are limited during peak times, so it’s best to book 2–3 weeks in advance.
Focus Point 3｜Private space for one person + Strict reservation system
All treatment rooms and administrative offices in the clinic are private, single-use spaces that aren’t shared with strangers. During your scheduled appointment, the entire clinic focuses solely on you—this is standard at high-end clinics in Gangnam, but not many actually deliver it. For those who value privacy and want some quiet time to rest after their facial treatment, this feature is a real plus.
Focus Point 4｜One-on-one consultation with the clinic director to avoid overtreatment
Many people online say that Dr. Zhao is like a “lightning rod” — he will outright advise against any procedure that isn’t suitable for you. I had a similar experience during my own consultation: he would have me laugh, talk, and make facial expressions to ensure that everything looks natural in real life before recommending a treatment plan. This commitment to “dynamic beauty” is exactly what helps prevent plastic-looking results. If you’re easily influenced by sales pitches, the doctor here will help you hold back.
Focus Point 5｜Closed on Sundays; be mindful of lunch break hours
The business hours are from 10:00 to 20:00 from Monday to Friday, with a lunch break from 13:00 to 14:00; on Saturdays, it’s open from 10:00 to 17:00 without a lunch break. The clinic is closed on Sundays and public holidays. If you arrive in Seoul only on the weekend, appointments can only be made on Saturday. Additionally, please note in advance if you need translation services in Chinese. Although there are staff who speak Chinese on site, they’re not available around the clock, so it’s recommended to confirm the translation arrangement when making your appointment.
The Truth: Who Is LIOL Right For? And Who Is It Not Right For?
Ideal for those who seek a natural, youthful look, want to avoid unwanted sales pitches, and value personalized consultations by the clinic director as well as privacy. Especially suitable for people over 30 who want anti-aging treatments but are concerned about looking stiff—here, the 3D diagnosis and minimalist aesthetic approach will give you greater peace of mind.
Not suitable for those who are looking for the lowest group purchase prices, want immediate treatment on the same day, or have a very limited budget. LIOL adheres to the philosophy that better quality comes at a higher price—its rates won’t be the lowest in Gangnam, and appointments need to be scheduled in advance.
More real-world reviews on medical aesthetics in South Korea
If you’re still comparing clinics in different cities or price ranges, you can check out these articles I’ve written:
- Hands-on review of Busan BASE Dermatology: In-person consultation by the director, just 3 minutes from Centum City station, specializes in addressing skin concerns related to texture, tone, and overall appearance
- Hands-on review of Busan’s Lizon Dermatology: just 1-2 minutes from Seomyeon Station, a chain brand with transparent and affordable reference prices
- Seongsu NEW LINE Dermatology Test Results: 5-minute treatment at Seongsu clinics, single-physician system, combined use of radiofrequency and HIFU
Want to book or learn more about medical aesthetics in South Korea?
Add WeChat at xycheng2204 for one-on-one assistance in confirming the hospital, time, and price.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on the author’s personal experiences and compiled from publicly available online information, intended solely for reference and not as medical advice. All cosmetic procedures carry risks; please discuss your options thoroughly with a doctor before proceeding to ensure they are suitable for your health condition. Prices and operating hours may change, so please refer to the official announcements at the clinic.
