How do I know if somewhere is legit?

[DeeDee]

I've only recently started looking at places to check out in Korea but given how astroturfed most of the internet is I can only really parse what's on Reddit and maybe Unni and pick something that sounds real. I'm apprehensive about this as what I am looking at seems rather daunting. What I'm looking for is not limited to the following but some things I'm considering:

*V-line

*Double jaw surgery (sounds particularly unpleasant)

*forehead contouring

*rhinoplasty

*chin shortening (part of v-line?)

*zygomatic restructuring

I've looked at jk, jw, banobagi, wonjin, AB, Nana and a few others that I've eliminated for various reasons. I'm intrigued by the price points compared to the US but definitely hesitant. I'd love to hear some reviews about these clinics. What are things you look for to determine if a place is legit? Is there any way to know if a place is more likely to do ghost docs? Thanks!

[OppaStatus]

Totally get what you mean. The Korean plastic surgery scene is full of noise, especially with all the paid reviews, astroturfing, and recycled blog content. It’s smart that you’re approaching this cautiously.

For double jaw and v-line work, the most important thing is making sure the actual surgeon doing your case is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial specialist, not just a general plastic surgeon. A lot of clinics have one face doctor doing consultations, but someone else steps in on surgery day (ghost doc situation). The best way to avoid this is to ask directly who will be performing your surgery and request the doctor’s full name and credentials in writing. Also, ask if they’ll be present during all parts of the operation.

More legit OMFS surgeons would be places like EverM, TFD, and EU. Out of these though I have seen the best results come from Dr. Yoon at EverM.

From the list you mentioned (JK, JW, Banobagi, Wonjin, AB, Nana), all are well-known but heavily marketed. Some of them have strong in-house content teams, which can create the illusion of credibility. Doesn’t always mean they’re bad, but it does mean you need to look deeper than the surface.

For zygoma, chin, and jaw surgeries, check if the clinic offers 3D CT scans and surgical simulations, it’s a good sign they take planning seriously. Also, avoid anywhere that tries to push multiple surgeries in one go without a clear reason.

Happy to share more if you narrow down which procedures you’re leaning toward or if you want names of surgeons that are known in the local expat or agency circuit. There are legit ones, but they don’t always have the flashiest Instagrams.