How do I know if a clinic offers free consultations?

[bellazen]

I saw someone else mention this in another thread and figured I would ask. I assumed they were all paid, like you had to pay some sort of fee to get in touch with the doctor which is why I have not actually done one yet. I have only reached out via e-mail to a few clinics. Is it true that some clinics offer free consultations? And if so, how do you find out about this? 

[smolcat22]

Locate the International Patient Services page on their website. Most clinics have these if they work with foreigners. 

These are usually done on WhatsApp, Zoom, or KakaoTalk. All are free and easy to use apps. 

Keep in mind it may be free upfront but once you book an appointment, they might tack on a charge for it which will be included with your surgery. 

[mariemarie]

You can do a search on their website or ask AI to compile the information for you if you are not sure. I believe @smolcat22is correct, most offer free virtual ones. 

[Gelsomino]

Every site I have been on in terms of clinics in Korea has stated they have free video call consultations. Now there could be some stipulations to this, I don't know. Maybe if you require a more thorough evaluation then it would require you to pay? I have not looked that deep into it. 

[diannab63]

Outside of budgeting for the surgery itself... I would plan to have a credit card or backup funds for extra costs that could come up.

For things like hotel stays, shopping, etc. 

[cocopeach]

On 9/26/2026 at 11:09 AM, smolcat22 said:

Locate the International Patient Services page on their website. Most clinics have these if they work with foreigners. 

Curious... where is this normally found? I was trying to look into this on a few clinics myself and I can't seem to find a page like this. Maybe it is called something else?

[pinkdaisyz]

I have not found a clinic online that doesn't! The key is that they offer them online via video chat. If you have to actually go in or want to, that is usually when they charge but they only charge you if you get the surgery, they just add it to the final bill. I know this can be confusing for a lot of people.

Also do not expect a free online consultation to be as personal and in depth. Expect maybe 15 to 20 minutes tops. If you want something that is a bit more detailed and personal, you will likely have to pay or find a very high end clinic.