Botox in Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

What is Botox?

"Botox" is widely used as a general name for botulinum toxin type A injections (보톡스 in Korean). In very small, purified doses, the toxin temporarily blocks the signal from nerve to muscle in the area where it is injected. The muscle relaxes, and lines that form when that muscle contracts, called dynamic lines, soften.

That distinction matters. Botox is effective for lines caused by movement: the vertical "11" lines between the brows, horizontal forehead lines and crow's feet at the outer eyes. It does not fill hollows or lift sagging tissue. Static lines that remain when your face is completely relaxed may improve partly, but often need other approaches such as skin boosters, energy devices or filler.

How Doje Clinic approaches Botox

Good Botox is less about the product and more about anatomy and judgement. Dr. Byun Jeik, a surgery specialist trained at Seoul National University Hospital, assesses how your muscles actually move before deciding where and how much to inject.

• Expression-first – doses are chosen to soften lines while keeping a natural, expressive face, avoiding a frozen look.
• Balance – forehead and brow muscles work against each other; treating one without considering the other can lower or distort the brows.
• Context – if forehead lines are caused by unconsciously lifting heavy brows, relaxing the forehead too much can make the eyes feel heavier; lifting options may be discussed instead.
• Part of a plan – Botox is often combined with filler, skin care or lifting rather than used to solve every concern.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

• Suits dynamic lines on the forehead, between the brows and around the eyes.
• Suits people who want prevention as lines first start to linger after expression.
• Suits masseter contouring for a square-looking jaw (see Jaw Botox).
• Not a solution for sagging, volume loss or deep static creases on its own.
• Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with certain neuromuscular disorders, with infection at the injection site, or with some medications reviewed at consultation.

What to expect, step by step

1. Consultation: you are asked to frown, raise your brows and smile so muscle patterns can be seen.
2. Plan: injection points and dose for each area are decided, with your preference for natural movement in mind.
3. Preparation: cleansing; numbing cream or ice if preferred.
4. Injection: a few small injections with a very fine needle.
5. Review: results can be assessed around two weeks, when the effect is typically at its peak.

Recovery and aftercare

Most people return to normal activities immediately. Small bumps at injection points usually flatten within minutes to an hour; pinpoint bruises can occur. For the rest of the day avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area, lying flat for a few hours, saunas and strenuous exercise. Effects build over several days. Rarely, a brow or eyelid may feel heavy for a short time; contact the clinic if you notice anything unusual. See our Botox aftercare guide for details.

Cost

The fee depends on the areas treated and the amount needed for your muscle strength. It is quoted after the 1:1 consultation; ask for a written quote. Korean non-covered (비급여) aesthetic fees are set per plan.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Botox take to work?

The effect typically begins within a few days and reaches its peak around two weeks after treatment.

How long does Botox last?

Usually a few months, though duration varies with the area, dose and individual metabolism.

Will I look frozen?

Doje doses Botox to soften lines while keeping natural expression; preferences are discussed beforehand.

Can Botox lift sagging skin?

No. Botox relaxes muscles; sagging is usually addressed with threads or energy devices.

Is there downtime?

Minimal. Small bumps settle quickly, and pinpoint bruises may occasionally appear.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Skin Botox
• Jaw (Masseter) Botox
• Botox vs Filler
• Frown Lines
• Forehead Lines
• Crow's Feet
• Botox Aftercare

Medical information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis. Suitability, risks and the final plan are confirmed in a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik. Last updated 17 October 2026.