Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Aesthetic Treatment · Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

Why aesthetic treatment is usually postponed

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not included in the clinical studies used to approve aesthetic products and devices. That means there is little reliable evidence about safety for the baby, and in medicine the absence of evidence leads to caution for elective treatment. There is no urgency in aesthetic care: waiting a few months carries almost no downside, while an unexpected reaction at this time would be difficult to manage — some medicines used to treat complications are themselves avoided in pregnancy where possible.

Pregnancy also changes the body in ways that affect results. Fluid retention, hormonal pigment changes (such as melasma, 기미) and shifts in facial fat can make it hard to judge what a face needs. A plan made during pregnancy may not suit the face a few months after birth.

What is generally postponed

• Injectables: Botox and Skin Botox, soft and structural filler, Radiesse, and skin or collagen boosters such as Rejuran, GOURI and Re2O.
• Regenerative injections: exosome and autologous exosome treatments.
• Thread lifting and double-chin liposuction.
• Energy devices: Ultherapy Prime, Thermage, Softwave, ONDA and Potenza.
• Lasers: Helios toning and CO2 laser, including treatment for pigmentation that appeared in pregnancy, which sometimes fades on its own afterwards.

Breastfeeding: the same caution, with individual discussion

Whether a product passes into breast milk, and in what amount, is not well studied for most aesthetic treatments. Elective procedures are therefore usually deferred until breastfeeding ends. If you are breastfeeding and considering treatment, raise it at consultation; Dr. Byun Jeik will explain which options he would postpone and why. Medicines that might be needed to manage a complication are another reason for caution.

If you are planning a pregnancy

• Tell the doctor at consultation, even if it is only a plan.
• Consider timing: treatments whose effects develop over months, such as collagen stimulation or staged lifting, may be better started at a time when you can complete them.
• If you discover you are pregnant after treatment, let both your obstetric doctor and the clinic know which treatment you had and when.

Safe ways to look after skin in the meantime

1. Daily sun protection — the most effective step against pregnancy-related pigmentation.
2. Gentle, fragrance-light skincare with a good moisturiser for dryness.
3. Check active ingredients such as retinoids with your obstetric doctor or pharmacist.
4. Sleep, hydration and patience — many skin changes settle after birth.

Planning for after

Many women find the post-pregnancy period brings different concerns — volume loss in the mid-face, tired-looking eyes, dull or pigmented skin, or changes after weight loss. Doje's guiding idea, that care needs change as time passes, applies here. When you are ready, a 1:1 consultation can set out a staged plan, often beginning with skin quality and moving to lifting or structure only as far as needed. Programs such as the Eye Program or Mid-Face Program are designed around these patterns.

Cost and booking

You are welcome to book a consultation to plan ahead. Treatment is quoted after the consultation; Korean non-covered (비급여) aesthetic fees are set per plan, and a written quote is available.

Frequently asked questions

Can I have Botox while pregnant?

Botox is generally postponed during pregnancy because safety data are limited.

Is filler safe while breastfeeding?

Elective filler is usually deferred while breastfeeding because there is little evidence on safety; discuss your situation at consultation.

Can I have laser for pregnancy melasma?

Laser treatment is usually postponed until after pregnancy, and some pregnancy pigmentation fades on its own afterwards; sun protection helps meanwhile.

What if I had treatment before I knew I was pregnant?

Tell your obstetric doctor and the clinic which treatment you had and when, so they can advise you.

Should I mention that I am trying to conceive?

Yes. It helps the doctor time treatments appropriately.

When can I plan treatment after pregnancy?

Timing is individual; Dr. Byun Jeik can plan a staged approach in a 1:1 consultation once you are ready.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Who should postpone treatment
• Safety and side effects
• Melasma
• Skin recovery care
• Ageing in your 30s
• The consultation process

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.