In March 2025, I had the privilege of traveling to Seoul, South Korea — internationally recognised as the epicentre of aesthetic medicine and innovation. For a whole week, I trained intensively under two of the world's leading plastic surgeons through the International Fellowship in Advanced Aesthetic Science (IFAAS). This trip wasn't just about learning — it was about elevating the quality and precision of the treatments I offer at Skin & Joints in Bristol.

 

Why Korea?

South Korea is widely recognised as the global leader in medical aesthetics. The precision, natural-looking results, and emphasis on preventative treatments are unmatched — and I wanted to bring that philosophy back to my clients here in the UK.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Training with top plastic surgeon Dr. Ho Sung Choi

 

 

Intensive Hands-On Training

I completed two mini fellowships (hands-on):
1. Korean Advanced Non-Surgical Face Lifting 
2. Korean Tailored Aesthetic Injections 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Training with top plastic surgeon Dr. Han-Jin Kwon

 

 

 

 

We worked on live models and real patient cases every day. The atmosphere was collaborative, rigorous, and inspiring.

The intensive training covered:

  • Layered full-face rejuvenation protocols using threads, fillers, and toxins. We explored “layered rejuvenation” — combining neuromodulators, skin boosters, and threads for natural harmony, not just correction.
  • Advanced PDO thread techniques including jawline definition and midface lifting. We learned how to lift the mid and lower face using minimal entry points, combining different thread types (mono, cog, and screw) for bespoke lifting and collagen stimulation.
  • Melanin regulation + skin brightening techniques based on Korean protocols. Korean skin treatments focus on brightening without bleaching. I trained in multi-modal approaches for melasma and sunspots using pico lasers, topicals, and microneedling serums.
  • Blending structural contouring with soft tissue preservation
  • Live demonstrations of Ultracol — a next-gen Korean collagen stimulator I'm now bringing to my Bristol clinic.  Ultracol, a new collagen biostimulator made from PCL, now available in our Bristol clinic. The Korean techniques showed how to safely layer Ultracol with threads and HA fillers for long-term structural improvements.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Sets Korean Aesthetics Apart?

Korean treatments prioritise:

  • Natural, lifted results
  • Minimal downtime
  • Long-term collagen preservation
  • Soft-tissue harmony over volume-heavy fillers

This aligns perfectly with our ethos at Skin & Joints: treatments should enhance, never overpower.

What I'm Bringing Back to My Patients

The Korean approach is defined by:

  • Precision
  • Minimalism with maximum effect
  • Collagen preservation over volume filling
  • Subtle, natural-looking transformations


This aligns beautifully with the ethos of Skin & Joints: scientific, subtle, and completely personalised aesthetics.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Proud Achievement

I was honoured to receive two certificates of completion from IFAAS, signed by Dr. Ho Sung Choi and Dr. Han-Jin Kwon.

 

New Protocols Now Available in Clinic

As a result of this training, we now offer:

  • Advanced PDO thread lift techniques with Korean methodology
  • Ultracol collagen stimulation for long-term skin support
  • A complete melasma & pigmentation protocol using PicoSure, Korean serums, and microneedling
  • Refined facial contouring with less volume and more structure

A Moment of Cultural Beauty

Aside from the intense training, I carved out time to experience the peaceful, historic beauty of Seoul — like a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, reminding me that beauty can be timeless, subtle, and steeped in tradition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspired. Recharged. Evolved.

This trip was transformational — both personally and professionally. I've returned with new tools, deeper knowledge, and a fresh perspective that I'm excited to integrate into every treatment I perform.



Whether you're looking for a subtle refresh or a full-face rejuvenation, I now offer Korean-style aesthetic protocols that emphasise harmony, youthfulness, and longevity. If you're curious about Korean-style facelifting, pigmentation treatment, or subtle facial sculpting, I'd love to share more in a consultation.

Book your appointment at www.skinjoints.co.uk or visit us on Instagram @skinandjoints to see videos from the training and behind-the-scenes moments from my trip.