“How long does surgery take?” and “When can I leave Korea?” are different questions. A useful itinerary separates the operation, immediate recovery and later appointments. General time tables can start a conversation, but the hospital must confirm the schedule for the procedure you will actually receive. Use confirmed appointments rather than a social-media estimate when planning your stay.
Clarify what the quoted duration includes
Ask whether an estimate refers only to operating time or also preparation, anaesthesia and recovery-room observation. Request the proposed arrival and discharge arrangements separately. If more than one procedure is planned, ask for a combined schedule rather than adding the advertised times yourself. Keep provisional and confirmed timings clearly marked.
List every area that needs a review
For eyelid, nose, facial, breast or liposuction surgery, ask the hospital which wound sites need a check. If a plan includes an additional site, such as a tissue-harvest location, include it in the review list. This question helps avoid treating a single stitch-removal appointment as the whole follow-up plan.
Get stitch instructions for the actual closure
Ask whether stitches require removal, who will assess them and whether different sites have different instructions. Record the surgeon’s proposed dates, not a number copied from another case. Also ask about any dressings or supports that need professional review. The final answer belongs in the discharge instructions, where it can be updated if the plan changes.
Allow the schedule to change after assessment
Check transport, accommodation and ticket flexibility before making a non-changeable booking. Ask what happens if a review is moved or an extra visit is needed, and who communicates the change. Stitch removal, fitness to travel and return to work should remain separate items; do not assume that completing one automatically confirms the others.
Consultation checklist
- Separate arrival, operating time, observation and discharge.
- List each wound site and its planned review.
- Confirm removal or dressing appointments with the hospital.
- Keep travel advice and follow-up dates distinct.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a fixed stitch-removal day for every surgery?
Ask for instructions for each site and closure. One generic date is not a personal treatment plan.
If the operation is short, can I travel soon afterwards?
The operating time does not establish travel readiness. Obtain the treating team’s advice and planned reviews.
What if my flight changes?
Inform the hospital before skipping a review. Ask for a revised plan or an agreed clinical handover rather than rearranging care independently.
Related reading
This guide helps prepare questions. Your treating clinician must confirm the procedure, suitability and personal care instructions.