A bit frustrated with trying to find a surgeon

[JoJoBeans]

I have been looking for a doctor to get some work done for over a year. I have checked locally as well as a few different countries (including Korea) and I just find the whole progress frustrating and overwhelming. I have been in contact with a few Korean clinics and one of them has not responded back to me in almost 2 weeks, another responded right away but they seem to be pushing my questions around and not answering anything, and another just never responded at all. 

How am I mean to find a doctor and schedule something from another country when it is this complicated to just get a response and more information? 

[diannaw]

It can be a challenge if you are not sure what to do, who to to contact, or what to ask. I find the Discord group tied to this forum can be super helpful with this! I know I was a bit lost myself when planning my second trip and surgery. 

That being said, it helps to meet doctors and go to clinics in person. This can mean planning a longer stay or multiple trips. 

[kpopkelly]

On 4/11/2026 at 10:40 AM, diannaw said:

I find the Discord group tied to this forum can be super helpful with this! I know I was a bit lost myself when planning my second trip and surgery. 

This.

Also some information about what you asked:

• I would say most clinics at this point offer free online consultations. These are done via Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime. They will likely request medication information and photos and then talk about what your goals are for your surgery and this can all be done before traveling.
• As for scheduling, you may have to pay a consultation fee which will be added to your total surgery cost so reserve the time/date of your surgery. This may or may not include a deposit to avoid last minute cancellations from people abroad. 
• Once you have a date set, you will get a basic quote for estimated costs (which can end up being more or less post surgery depending on various things), sign forms, and you may need to get medical clearance from a local doctor which includes blood work and a physical exam a week or two out from surgery.
• Most clinics require you to stay in the destination for at least two weeks post-surgery to ensure proper recovery and attend follow-up appointments, and some offer all-inclusive packages to simplify the process making it easy for people traveling from far away nations.