I compared the Potenza treatments offered by five different Dermatology clinics in Gangnam, and in the end, I decided to add these two to my favorites list.
I always knew that Potenza radiofrequency treatments were cheaper in South Korea than in Taiwan, but to truly confirm this, it was necessary to do some research. I visited five clinics in the Gangnam area and spent two entire weeks gathering information on everything from the models of equipment used to the prices and qualifications of the doctors. The purpose of this article is to share my comparison process. In particular, in the Gangnam region, the choices of clinics offering Potenza treatments are quite different from those in Hongdae or Myeongdong – the equipment used, price ranges, and service models all vary.
Why do I want to undergo Potenza treatment in Gangnam? Let me first explain the logic behind my choice of clinic.
When considering choosing Gangnam, I had several reasons in mind: Firstly, there is a high density of Dermatology clinics in Gangnam, and most of the doctors have experience participating in international conferences. Moreover, the equipment used at these clinics—such as Genius, Potenza, or Morpheus8—are usually the more advanced or full-scale models, rather than basic versions. Secondly, the systems for serving foreign patients in these clinics are relatively well-developed; many clinics offer Chinese-speaking consultation services or allow reservations through the BeautsGO platform, which greatly reduces language barriers.
I limited my search scope to the area along Gangnam-daero, from Yeoksam-dong to Sinsa-dong. In the end, I focused on comparing five brands: Betterme Gangnam, peche, Diar, SIA Shiyaa, and Edison. The following comparison is organized based on the aspects that matter most to me personally.
Comparison of 5 Potenza clinics in Gangnam: Equipment, prices, and target customer groups
Let me first provide you with a quick comparison table, and then I will go over each company in detail later on:
| clinic | Main equipment | The price of a single application of Potenza | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Betterme Gangnam | Genius / Potenza (can be used in combination with INMODE) | ₩500,000 to 900,000 | For Pores, skin texture, and mild anti-aging effects, consider a combination of treatments. |
| Pechе Peche | Potenza / Morpheus8 (Combined RF Technology) | ₩600,000 to 1,100,000 | Consider combining Thermage/HIFU treatments into an anti-aging package |
| Diar | INMODE Morpheus8 | ₩550,000 to 950,000 | I want to use INMODE’s original equipment for body sculpting and firming treatments. |
| SIA Shiyaa | The combination of Genius and ONDA | ₩550,000 to 1,000,000 | A newly opened clinic with state-of-the-art equipment, specializing in anti-aging treatment packages |
| Edison | Potenza (mainly for injectable use) | ₩480,000 – 780,000 | Mainly using botulinum toxin and fillers, with Potenza as an optional supplementary treatment. |
The last two companies to make it onto the list were Betterme Gangnam and peche. The reason for this is as follows…
Betterme Gangnam Dermatology (강남 베러미 피부과)
Betterme Gangnam is located on Gangnam-daero in Seocho-dong, just a 5-minute walk from Sinnonhyeon Station on Line 9 of the subway. What attracts me most about this clinic is its integration of Potenza and INMODE devices, allowing for customized treatment combinations based on individual needs—for example, using Potenza to address Pores and skin quality, while INMODE FX is targeted at subcutaneous fat. It’s most convenient to discuss both options during the same consultation.
In terms of the scale of its facilities, Betterme boasts one of the most comprehensive ranges of equipment in Gangnam. The equipment used has original manufacturer certifications, and the doctors have also attended relevant training courses. The clinic provides Chinese-speaking receptionists (appointments can be made through BeautsGO), and the entire consultation process is relatively transparent – customers are not immediately presented with pre-set treatment packages upon arrival. The price for Potenza treatment I inquired about was around ¥900,000 for the whole face including the neck; the cost for just the face alone ranged from ¥500,000 to ¥600,000. These prices are considered reasonably mid-range in Gangnam.
Pechе Peche Dermatology Gangnam (Gangnam Peche Dermatology)
Peche is located near Yeoksam Station, on the 3rd floor of 364 Gangnam-daero. I originally didn’t include it in my comparison list, but later added it after seeing the detailed pricing information for its comprehensive anti-aging treatment packages on BeautsGO. Peche’s main offering is a package that combines HIFU, Thermage, and Potenza; the full facial treatment using these three technologies costs approximately ₩3,300,000—which is actually much cheaper when purchased separately.
If you are considering undergoing both Potenza treatments and lifting procedures at the same time, Peche’s package structure is quite suitable for you. During the consultation, your doctor will recommend the combination that offers the best results based on the current condition of your skin, without forcing you to choose a particular package. Foreigners can make appointments through BeautsGO, which provides services in Traditional Chinese. It is only about a 3-minute walk from Exit 2 of Yeoksam Station on the subway.
Evaluations of the Potenza technology by the other three companies: Diar, SIA Shiyaa, and Addison
Diar Dermatology (Diar Clinic, Gangnam)
Diar is located on 69 Gangnam-daero, on the 10th floor of the KI Building. The three directors all have 22 to 26 years of experience in the industry. Diar specializes in the INMODE series (including Morpheus8) as well as Thermage FLX. The Potenza is specifically part of the Morpheus8 range – INMODE’s own brand of Potenza radiofrequency equipment – and is ideal for those who wish to combine facial contouring with skin tightening treatments. If your goal is “skin tightening + slight reduction of facial contours,” Diar’s package offerings are worth considering. However, if your needs are simply to improve Pores and skin quality, their treatment packages may be more comprehensive than what you actually need (and therefore more expensive as well).
SIA Siya Dermatology (Siya Clinic Gangnam Branch)
SIA Shiyaa is a new clinic that opened at the end of 2025. It is equipped with the latest Genius Potenza devices, combined with ONDA radiofrequency technology. The state-of-the-art equipment is its main advantage, and the physicians working there also hold relevant certifications. Since it has only been open for a short time, the current market conditions are relatively transparent, and there are many promotional offers available. This clinic is ideal for those who want to experience the latest medical technologies; however, due to its recent opening, long-term evaluations are still being gathered. It is located at 488 Gangnam-daero, near the Sinnonhyeon station on Line 9.
Edison Dermatology (Gangnam)
Edison’s main strengths lie in botulinum toxin injections and fillers; Potenza is merely an additional option. If you primarily rely on injectable treatments and wish to include Potenza as well, Edison is a convenient choice for that. However, if you opt solely for Potenza, the range of available equipment is not as extensive as at the other two clinics. Nevertheless, the prices are relatively affordable (₩480,000 to 780,000), making it suitable for those with limited budgets who are considering trying this treatment for the first time.
What should foreigners consider when undergoing Potenza treatments in Gangnam? Reservation methods, language issues, and tax refund procedures.
For foreigners coming to Gangnam for medical beauty treatments, language barriers are not as difficult to overcome as one might imagine. Both Betterme and Peche mentioned above offer reservation services through the BeautsGO platform. BeautsGO provides customer service in Traditional Chinese, and translation assistance on the day of the treatment can also be arranged through this platform. In essence, there is no need for you to know Korean.
Reservation advice: Potenza treatment requires a certain recovery period (redness usually appears 3 to 5 days after the procedure, and it is advisable to avoid excessive sun exposure within 7 days). It is recommended to schedule this treatment at the beginning of your trip so that you have enough time to recover later on. When purchasing medical beauty services in South Korea, you may be eligible to claim a tax refund for some of the costs. It is recommended to ask the clinic directly whether they are a Tax Refund agency at the time of payment; you can simply present your passport to proceed with the refund process. Although the amount involved is not large, every little savings counts.
Preparations before the consultation: It is recommended to take screenshots of the aspects that concern you the most (Pores, skin type, mild anti-aging effects, firming) before going. This will help you clarify your needs more quickly during the consultation, and the doctor will be able to provide more accurate recommendations regarding the equipment to choose.
📅 立即預約 BeautsGO
Free consultation · Traditional Chinese language services · Quick reservation
Frequently Asked Questions: The most common questions from foreigners about Potenza in Gangnam
Q1: How much does the Potenza treatment cost in South Korea compared to Taiwan?
In Taiwan, the cost of a full-face Potenza treatment ranges from NT$15,000 to NT$30,000; in Hong Kong, it is approximately HK$8,000 to HK$20,000; in Gangnam, South Korea, the price is around ₩500,000 to ₩1,100,000 (equivalent to NT$12,000 to NT$26,000). When including airfare and accommodation, the total cost may not be much cheaper in South Korea. However, the range of equipment available and the qualifications of the doctors are usually more comprehensive. If you are already planning to visit Seoul, getting this treatment there can be a reasonable option that allows you to save some money.
Q2: What are the differences between Genius, Potenza, and Morpheus8?
All three are Potenza devices that use radiofrequency technology, but the differences lie mainly in the design of the needles and the mode of radiofrequency delivery. Genius (a local South Korean brand) uses unipolar radiofrequency, with a penetration depth of up to 3.5 mm and precise control; Potenza (produced by Cynosure in the United States) offers dual/unipolar modes, making it versatile for various applications; Morpheus8 (from INMODE) uses segmented radiofrequency technology, making it suitable for both the face and the body. As for which device to choose, your doctor will recommend the one that best suits your skin type, so you don’t need to decide on the model yourself.
Q3: How long is the recovery period after Potenza treatment? Is it suitable for travel plans?
On the day of the procedure, the face may become slightly red and swollen, but these symptoms usually subside within 1 to 3 days. It is important to avoid strong sunlight for at least 7 days after the treatment. It is recommended to schedule the procedure on the 1st or 2nd day of your trip to Seoul. In the following days, opt for indoor activities or light outdoor pursuits to allow the skin sufficient time to recover smoothly. It is not advisable to engage in intense sightseeing activities immediately after the procedure.
Q4: Can foreigners go to Gangnam Dermatology for Potenza treatment? Is Korean language required?
Absolutely. Both Betterme and Peche mentioned above support reservations through the BeautsGO platform. There are also Taiwanese-speaking customer service representatives available to assist with consultations and confirmations. Even if you need translation services on the day of your appointment, these can be arranged in advance. A passport is the most important document required; it is recommended to bring it along at all times.
Q5: How many sessions of Potenza treatment are required in Gangnam to see effective results?
Most doctors recommend 2 to 3 treatments as a course of therapy, with an interval of 4 to 6 weeks between each treatment. If you only visit South Korea once, having just one treatment can still be effective, especially in terms of improving Pores and skin quality. Usually, you will start to notice results 2 to 4 weeks after the treatment, and the effects become most apparent after 3 months. If you only come to South Korea once a year, it is recommended that you undergo each treatment to achieve more significant cumulative results over time.
Q6: Can I get a tax refund for receiving Potenza and radiofrequency treatments at Gangnam Dermatology?
Some clinics have joined medical tourism tax-reimbursement programs, allowing customers to claim VAT refunds (ranging from approximately 7% to 10%). When checking out, simply bring your passport and inquire whether the clinic offers such a program. Not all clinics do, but it’s worth asking. Tax refunds are usually processed at the airport or through designated tax-refund offices.
Q7: Which foreigner has given relatively positive reviews about Potenza in Gangnam?
According to the reviews left by foreigners on the BeautsGO platform, both Betterme Gangnam and peche have a considerable number of reviews in Traditional Chinese. The positive comments mainly focus on aspects such as “transparent consultation,” “no forced sales,” and “modern equipment.” You can check these reviews on BeautsGO before making a reservation to help you make a more informed decision.
Q8: Can I fly back to Taiwan immediately after the Potenza treatment?
Sure, but it is recommended to rest for at least one night after the procedure before flying, so that your skin can stabilize. During long flights, the cabin environment is relatively dry, so it is important to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and avoid sitting in a dry cabin for extended periods immediately after the treatment. Sun protection is also crucial after the procedure; be sure to apply sunscreen properly in the first two weeks after arriving in Taiwan.
