Flap surgery cost in Korea

Flap surgery (periodontal flap surgery) is a common periodontal procedure used to treat moderate to advanced gum disease. It involves lifting the gum tissue to access and clean root surfaces and reduce deep periodontal pockets. Below is a clear, clinic-ready overview of the flap surgery cost in Korea that you can publish on your dental website.



What Is Flap Surgery?

Flap surgery is performed to manage periodontal (gum) disease when deep “pockets” form between the teeth and gums. The dentist or periodontist gently lifts the gum tissue to:

• Remove bacteria, tartar, and diseased tissue from root surfaces
• Smooth bone irregularities
• Reduce pocket depths to promote better gum attachment

Flap surgery can help stop the progression of periodontal disease and prevent tooth loss.

Typical Flap Surgery Cost in Korea

In Korea, the cost of flap surgery generally ranges from:

KRW 500,000 to KRW 1,000,000+ per quadrant

A quadrant refers to one-fourth of the mouth (upper right, upper left, lower right, or lower left). Depending on the severity of disease and number of quadrants treated, total costs can vary widely.

What Is Included in the Fee

Most clinics include:

• Clinical periodontal evaluation
• Local anesthesia
• Lifting of gum tissue (flap)
• Cleaning of root surfaces and removal of infected tissues
• Smoothing of bone if needed
• Suturing (stitches)
• Post-operative care instructions

Confirm during consultation whether diagnostic imaging (X-rays) and postoperative follow-ups are included in the quoted price.

Factors That Affect Flap Surgery Cost

Severity of Periodontal Disease

More advanced disease with deeper pockets and bone loss generally requires more time and surgical precision, increasing the cost.

Number of Quadrants Treated

Treating multiple quadrants in one or more sessions multiplies the overall cost. For example:

• 1 quadrant: KRW 500,000 – KRW 1,000,000+
• 2 quadrants: KRW 1,000,000 – KRW 2,000,000+
• Full mouth (4 quadrants): KRW 2,000,000 – KRW 4,000,000+

Use of Materials

Use of adjunctive materials such as bone grafts, membranes, or growth factors may increase the cost if needed for regeneration.

Imaging and Diagnostic Tests

Dental X-rays or advanced imaging may be recommended to assess bone loss and plan surgery, and may be billed separately if not included.

Clinic Location and Specialist Experience

Periodontists and clinics in major metropolitan areas such as Seoul may charge higher fees due to expertise and overhead.

Insurance and Payment in Korea

• Flap surgery is generally considered non-insured dental treatment, so patients typically pay out of pocket.
• Some diagnostic elements (e.g., basic X-rays) may be partially covered by national health insurance depending on age and policy.
• Private dental insurance plans may provide partial reimbursement depending on coverage.
• Foreign patients usually pay standard private clinic rates.

Number of Visits Required

Flap surgery typically involves:

1. Periodontal evaluation and treatment planning
2. Surgical visit for flap procedure
3. Follow-up visit(s) for healing evaluation and suture removal

Depending on the severity of disease and number of quadrants treated, multiple appointments may be scheduled.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

After flap surgery, patients are usually advised to:

• Follow prescribed oral hygiene instructions
• Use gentle rinses or medicated mouthwash
• Manage discomfort with prescribed pain medication
• Attend follow-up visits to monitor healing

Final Thoughts on Flap Surgery Cost in Korea

The flap surgery cost in Korea typically ranges from KRW 500,000 to KRW 1,000,000+ per quadrant, depending on disease severity, number of quadrants treated, and any additional materials or imaging required. A periodontal consultation will give the most accurate plan and cost estimate tailored to your individual needs.