Forehead & Temple Filler in Korea: Achieve a Smooth Round Forehead
In Korean beauty culture, a smooth, round, and full forehead is considered one of the most attractive facial features. Unlike Western aesthetics that often focus on cheekbones and jawline, Korean beauty standards place great emphasis on a convex, egg-shaped forehead profile. This has made forehead and temple filler one of the most sought-after treatments at Seoul dermatology clinics.
Why Koreans Love the Round Forehead
The "dome forehead" (볼록 이마) is deeply rooted in Korean beauty ideals. A smooth, rounded forehead is associated with youth, elegance, and facial harmony. Many Korean celebrities are known for their perfectly curved foreheads, driving demand for this treatment among both locals and international visitors.
Signs You Might Benefit from Forehead Filler
- Flat or concave forehead profile
- Visible brow bone protrusion
- Hollow or sunken temples
- Fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead
- Asymmetry between forehead sides
- Loss of volume due to aging
Treatment Options for Forehead Augmentation
1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
The most common and reversible option. HA fillers like Juvederm Voluma, Restylane SubQ, or Belotero Volume are injected in small amounts across the forehead to create a smooth, rounded contour.
- Duration: 12–18 months
- Reversible: Yes (with hyaluronidase)
- Amount needed: 3–8cc typically
- Price: ₩400,000–₩1,200,000 ($310–$920)
2. Radiesse (Calcium Hydroxylapatite)
A semi-permanent filler that provides excellent structure and also stimulates collagen production. Radiesse is particularly well-suited for forehead augmentation due to its firm consistency.
- Duration: 12–24 months
- Reversible: No
- Amount needed: 2–5cc typically
- Price: ₩500,000–₩1,000,000 ($385–$770)
3. Ellansé (PCL Filler)
A collagen-stimulating filler that provides both immediate volume and long-term collagen regeneration. Available in different formulations lasting 1–4 years.
- Duration: 1–4 years depending on type
- Reversible: No
- Amount needed: 2–5cc
- Price: ₩600,000–₩1,500,000 ($460–$1,150)
4. Fat Grafting (자가지방이식)
For those seeking a more permanent solution, autologous fat transfer involves harvesting fat from another body area (usually abdomen or thighs) and injecting it into the forehead.
- Duration: Semi-permanent (60–70% survival rate)
- Reversible: No
- Recovery: 1–2 weeks of swelling
- Price: ₩1,500,000–₩3,000,000 ($1,150–$2,310)
The Procedure: What to Expect
Step 1: Consultation (15–20 minutes)
Your doctor will analyze your forehead shape from multiple angles, discuss your goals, and recommend the best filler type and amount. Many Korean clinics use 3D facial scanning technology for precise planning.
Step 2: Preparation (10 minutes)
Numbing cream is applied to the forehead area. Some clinics also use dental nerve blocks for additional comfort.
Step 3: Injection (20–40 minutes)
Using either a needle or blunt cannula technique, the doctor carefully injects filler across the forehead in layers. The cannula technique is preferred by most Korean doctors as it:
- Reduces bruising significantly
- Allows even distribution
- Minimizes risk of vascular complications
- Creates a smoother result
Step 4: Molding (5–10 minutes)
The doctor manually shapes and smooths the filler to achieve the desired round contour.
Step 5: Assessment
You'll sit up to check the result from various angles. Minor adjustments can be made immediately.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Swelling: Mild to moderate swelling for 3–7 days
- Bruising: Minimal with cannula technique, possible small bruises for 5–7 days
- Pain: Mild tenderness for 1–3 days
- Return to normal: Most activities can be resumed immediately
- Full results: Visible at 2 weeks once swelling resolves
Post-Treatment Tips
- Avoid touching or pressing the forehead for 24 hours
- Sleep on your back for the first 3 nights
- Avoid intense exercise for 48 hours
- Skip saunas, steam rooms, and hot yoga for 1 week
- Avoid wearing tight hats or headbands for 1 week
Price Comparison: Korea vs Other Countries
| Treatment | Korea | USA | UK |
|---|---|---|---|
| HA Filler (per cc) | $100–$150 | $600–$800 | $400–$600 |
| Radiesse (per cc) | $130–$200 | $700–$900 | $500–$700 |
| Ellansé (per cc) | $150–$250 | N/A (not FDA approved) | $400–$600 |
| Fat Grafting | $1,150–$2,310 | $3,000–$6,000 | $2,500–$5,000 |
For a typical forehead treatment requiring 4–6cc of HA filler, you'd pay approximately $400–$900 in Korea compared to $2,400–$4,800 in the USA.
Temple Filler: The Perfect Complement
Temple hollowing is a common aging concern that often accompanies a flat forehead. Sunken temples can make you look tired or gaunt. Korean clinics frequently combine forehead and temple filler for a harmonious result.
Temple Filler Details
- Amount: 1–3cc per side
- Best fillers: Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, Radiesse
- Price: ₩300,000–₩600,000 ($230–$460) per side
- Duration: 12–18 months for HA, longer for Radiesse
Choosing the Right Clinic in Korea
When selecting a clinic for forehead filler, prioritize:
- Doctor experience — Look for dermatologists who specialize in facial contouring
- Before/after photos — Review the clinic's portfolio of forehead augmentation cases
- Technique — Prefer clinics that use cannula technique for safety
- Filler quality — Ensure they use genuine, KFDA-approved products
- English support — Many Gangnam and Sinsa-dong clinics have bilingual coordinators
Frequently Asked Questions
Does forehead filler hurt?
With proper numbing cream and technique, most patients rate the discomfort as 2–3 out of 10. The cannula technique is particularly comfortable.
Can forehead filler look unnatural?
In skilled hands, the result should look completely natural. Korean doctors are renowned for subtle, natural-looking augmentation. The key is choosing an experienced injector and using the right amount.
How much filler do I need?
Most patients need 3–8cc of HA filler for the forehead. Those with very flat foreheads may need more. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate amount during consultation.
Can I combine forehead filler with other treatments?
Yes! Popular combinations include:
- Forehead filler + temple filler (complete upper face rejuvenation)
- Forehead filler + Botox (smooth wrinkles + add volume)
- Forehead filler + nose filler (balanced profile enhancement)
What if I don't like the results?
If you chose HA filler, it can be dissolved with hyaluronidase enzyme within minutes. This is one of the biggest advantages of hyaluronic acid-based fillers.
Final Thoughts
Forehead filler is a quick, relatively comfortable procedure that can dramatically improve your facial profile. With Korean clinics offering this treatment at a fraction of Western prices and with world-class expertise in facial aesthetics, it's an excellent addition to your Seoul beauty itinerary.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Results vary by individual. Always consult with a qualified dermatologist before undergoing any filler treatment. Choose only licensed clinics with experienced practitioners.