Treatment guide · Skin Conditions

Sebaceous Hyperplasia in Seoul

Small, quick laser or electrocautery treatment to flatten yellowish oil-gland bumps.

Ask the clinic for: 피지선 증식증

Sebaceous Hyperplasia explained

Sebaceous hyperplasia is a common, benign enlargement of the skin's oil glands. It shows up as soft, yellowish or skin-coloured bumps a few millimetres wide, often with a tiny dent in the centre. It is more common with age, oily skin and sun damage.

How Sebaceous Hyperplasia works

A doctor uses a CO2 laser or a fine electrocautery needle to vaporise or flatten the enlarged gland tissue at the surface. This leaves a tiny scab that falls off in about a week. Because some bumps can look like early basal cell carcinoma, a doctor should examine them first. People with many bumps may also be offered prescription treatment, such as low-dose isotretinoin, which needs a doctor's consultation and prescription in Korea.

Who Sebaceous Hyperplasia is for

• A few to several yellowish bumps on the face
• Bumps that have been checked by a doctor
• People who can plan a week for small scabs
• Oily skin with enlarged glands on the forehead or nose

Who should avoid Sebaceous Hyperplasia

• Bumps that bleed, grow quickly or have not been examined
• Active infection or cold sores in the area
• Pregnancy, if prescription medicine is considered
• People prone to keloid scars without doctor advice
• Visitors flying out within 1–2 days who want no visible scabs

What happens at the appointment

1. Doctor examines each bump, sometimes with a dermatoscope
2. Numbing cream applied for 20–30 minutes
3. Each bump treated with CO2 laser or electrocautery
4. Healing ointment or a small patch placed on each spot
5. Aftercare and sun protection explained

Aftercare and flying home

• Keep spots clean and apply the ointment given
• Use hydrocolloid patches if the clinic recommends them
• Do not pick the scabs; let them fall off
• Avoid saunas and swimming for several days
• Use sunscreen daily to lower the risk of dark marks

Side effects and risks

• Redness and small scabs for 5–7 days
• Temporary pink or dark marks for weeks
• Small dents or scars if treatment is too deep
• New bumps forming over time in other areas

How much does Sebaceous Hyperplasia cost in Seoul?

₩10,000–₩50,000 per bump (about US$8–40 per bump) — Clinics usually charge per bump, by number of bumps, or by face area. Doctor consultation, numbing and any prescription medicine can add to the cost. Prices are estimates and vary with promotions.

Why get Sebaceous Hyperplasia in Korea?

Small-lesion removal with CO2 laser is a routine, high-volume service in Seoul dermatology clinics, and per-lesion prices are often lower than abroad. Many visitors combine it with other spot removal in one visit.

Frequently asked questions

How much does sebaceous hyperplasia removal cost in Seoul?

Expect about ₩10,000–₩50,000 per bump, or roughly ₩100,000–₩300,000 to treat an area. Price depends on the number and size of bumps.

Does sebaceous hyperplasia removal hurt?

With numbing cream it usually feels like brief stinging or heat. Most people find it easy to tolerate.

Will sebaceous hyperplasia come back?

Treated bumps rarely return, but new ones can appear over time because the tendency remains. Some people need a touch-up later.

How long is recovery, and when can I fly?

Small scabs last about 5–7 days. Flying is safe the next day, but plan treatment early in your trip if you want the scabs gone before you leave.

Is sebaceous hyperplasia dangerous?

No, it is benign. But some bumps look like basal cell carcinoma, so a doctor should examine them before removal.

Can I squeeze sebaceous hyperplasia at home?

No. These bumps are enlarged glands, not trapped oil, so squeezing does not remove them and can cause scars or infection.

Where to get it in Seoul

Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.