Nevus of Ota Treatment in Seoul | Laser Cost & Sessions

Nevus of Ota explained

Nevus of Ota is a benign condition where pigment cells (melanocytes) sit deep in the dermis, which makes the skin look blue, gray or brown. It usually affects one side of the face along the nerve area around the eye and can also tint the white of the eye. It is more common in people of Asian descent and often appears at birth or around puberty.

How Nevus of Ota works

Because the pigment is deep, lasers that reach the dermis are used, mainly Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064nm, Q-switched alexandrite or ruby, and picosecond lasers. The short pulses shatter the pigment, and immune cells remove it over the following weeks. Spacing sessions 2–3 months apart gives the body time to clear the pigment and reduces side effects.

Who Nevus of Ota is for

Confirmed nevus of Ota on the face
People willing to commit to a long series of sessions
Children and adults, as advised by a dermatologist
Those wanting to combine treatment with longer stays or repeat visits
People who want an established laser approach

Who should avoid Nevus of Ota

Undiagnosed pigment, which should be checked by a dermatologist first
Pregnant people, who should usually wait
Recent tanning or sunburn
Pigment in the white of the eye, which lasers cannot treat
Those expecting results in one or two visits

What happens at the appointment

Dermatologist consultation to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions
Photos and a plan for laser type and number of sessions
Numbing cream for about 30 minutes
Laser pulses over the pigmented area with eye protection
Healing ointment, sunscreen and follow-up booking in 2–3 months

Aftercare and flying home

Apply healing ointment as directed until crusts fall off
Do not pick at scabs
Use SPF 50 sunscreen daily and wear a hat
Avoid makeup on open or crusted areas
Keep to the 2–3 month interval between sessions

Side effects and risks

Redness, swelling and pinpoint bleeding after treatment
Crusting for 3–10 days
Temporary darkening of the treated skin
Lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation) in some cases
Rarely, scarring or incomplete clearance

How much does Nevus of Ota cost in Seoul?

₩100,000–₩400,000 (about US$75–300) — The price per session depends on the size of the area, the laser used (pico usually costs more than Q-switched) and whether a dermatologist performs it. Since 5–10 sessions are needed, the total cost matters more than one session. Prices here are estimates.

Why get Nevus of Ota in Korea?

Nevus of Ota is relatively common in Korea, so dermatologists in Seoul treat it often and pigment lasers are widely available. Costs are usually much lower than in Western countries, which matters for a long series.

Frequently asked questions

How much does nevus of Ota treatment cost in Seoul?

Laser treatment for nevus of Ota usually costs about ₩100,000–₩400,000 per session in Seoul (roughly US$75–300). The total depends on the number of sessions needed.

Does nevus of Ota laser treatment hurt?

It feels like sharp snapping on the skin. Numbing cream makes it tolerable for most adults.

How many sessions does nevus of Ota need?

Most people need 5–10 sessions, spaced 2–3 months apart. Darker or larger patches may need more.

What is the downtime, and can I fly after treatment?

Expect redness and small crusts for 3–10 days. Flying is fine, but keep the area clean and protected from sun.

Is laser treatment for nevus of Ota safe?

Q-switched and pico lasers are well established for nevus of Ota. Risks include temporary darkening, lightening and, rarely, scarring, so choose a dermatologist.

Should I see a dermatologist rather than a cosmetic clinic?

Yes, it is best to have a dermatologist confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment. This is especially important for children or if the pigment is near the eye.

Nevus of Ota in Seoul