Recovery & Follow-Up in Korea

Recovery is an important part of medical treatment. International patients should allow enough time after a procedure or surgery for recovery, follow-up examinations, and unexpected changes in the treatment schedule before leaving Korea.

Recovery requirements vary according to the procedure and individual medical condition.

BEFORE LEAVING THE HOSPITAL

Make sure you understand the medical team's instructions regarding:

• Medication
• Wound care when applicable
• Eating and drinking
• Physical activity
• Bathing or showering
• Follow-up appointments
• Warning signs
• Emergency contact information

Ask for clarification if any instructions are unclear.

FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS

Some treatments require one or more follow-up visits after discharge.

These appointments may be needed to:

• Check recovery
• Review test results
• Examine the treatment area
• Adjust medication
• Remove sutures when applicable
• Evaluate complications
• Plan continued care

Do not schedule your departure before required follow-up unless this has been discussed with the medical team.

RECOVERY ACCOMMODATION

For significant procedures, consider staying somewhere that provides convenient access to the treating hospital.

Think about:

Distance to Hospital → Transportation → Mobility → Meals → Rest → Companion Assistance

The appropriate arrangements depend on the patient's condition.

MEDICATION AFTER TREATMENT

Take prescribed medication according to the instructions provided.

Before leaving the hospital, confirm:

Medicine → Dose → Frequency → Duration → Important Precautions

If you expect to leave Korea while still taking medication, ask whether you will have an appropriate supply and what information you should take home.

FLYING AFTER TREATMENT

The appropriate time to fly after surgery or other medical treatment depends on the procedure and individual condition.

There is no single waiting period that applies to every patient.

Ask the treating medical professional when air travel is appropriate for your specific situation.

WARNING SIGNS

The medical team should explain which symptoms require medical attention.

If unexpected or worsening symptoms occur, contact the treating institution or seek appropriate medical care.

For a potentially life-threatening emergency in Korea:

Call 119

BEFORE YOUR FINAL FOLLOW-UP

Before leaving Korea, consider asking:

• Is my recovery progressing as expected?
• Do I need additional treatment?
• When can normal activities resume?
• When is it appropriate to fly?
• What follow-up is required at home?
• Which medical records should I take with me?