After a 40-minute consultation, they still told me not to proceed with the lifting treatment? Director Kim Jae-lim at Cheongdam Retoo CLINIC is really something special.

When it comes to Dermatology clinics in Cheongdam, Seoul, the first thing that comes to mind isn’t some popular online clinics, but rather a voice message my friend sent me a few months ago: “I went for a consultation by myself that day, and the director talked to me for a full forty minutes. He said my current condition didn’t require any lifting treatments at all and suggested that I start with the Mirajet hydration therapy and RE:STEM stem cell treatment first, and then observe the results for three months.” I was really surprised at that time. In Gangnam, it’s actually quite rare to find a clinic that advises you against expensive treatments or instead encourages you to spend less money. This is the **Cheongdam Retoo CLINIC**.

1. What makes Cheongdam Retoo CLINIC different from an ordinary Dermatology clinic?

I later went there myself, and as soon as I entered, I felt something was different. It wasn’t the kind of atmosphere where you’re immediately approached to be sold various packages; instead, it was a quiet space with a distinct design sensibility. The receptionist spoke in a gentle and soft voice. After registering and waiting for about ten minutes, I then entered the consultation room.

Dean Kim Jae-lim conducted a very thorough consultation. First, he asked me to describe my concerns, then inquired about my daily lifestyle, sleep habits, and skincare routines. Next, he used their clinic’s exclusive HeatView thermal imaging device to examine my face, allowing him to see the ONDO distribution and tissue structure beneath my skin in real time. He said, “The oil and moisture balance on the surface of your skin is off, but the underlying structure is decent. I don’t recommend undergoing any lifting treatments at this time.”

At that time, I had in mind getting the Tittatila treatment, but he told me right away that it wasn’t necessary for now. Instead, he recommended that I first undergo a round of Tuneface MAX (their signature facial contouring treatment) combined with the RE:STEM stem cell regeneration therapy, and then we could discuss further options once my skin condition stabilized. Such an honest and straightforward approach during the consultation really put me at ease.

II. Where exactly is Cheongdam Li Tu Clinic? First Light Tower, Cheongdam-dong

The clinic is located in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, at 417 Isu-daero, 5th and 6th floors of the First Light Tower. You can exit from Exit 4 of Yapgyoingeong Rodaeo Station on the Bundang Line, then walk in the direction of the Mercedes-Benz Cheongdam Exhibition Center for approximately 500 meters to reach the clinic.

Surrounding it is Cheongdam’s prime luxury area, home to numerous flagship stores of renowned brands and high-end restaurants. Many people schedule their appointments during their shopping trips and take the opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee afterward without disrupting their original plans. The First Light Tower itself is a sophisticated commercial building; the clinic is located on the 5th and 6th floors, with direct access via elevator, so there is no possibility of getting lost.

III. What is the flagship product Tuneface MAX, and how does it differ from regular facial lifting treatments?

This is the flagship project of Cheongdam Litu. Instead of using a single type of energy, it adopts a “combinatorial” approach – adjusting the energy ratio according to each individual’s facial structure and the degree of skin laxity. When I asked the director what distinguished this approach from Thermage or Ultherapy, he said:

“Everyone has a different facial structure. If the same equipment is used to apply the same depth and number of treatments, it will be very difficult to achieve different results for different individuals. Tuneface MAX, on the other hand, adjusts the treatment plan based on your specific facial features and tissue structure after a thorough consultation – it’s nothing like a one-size-fits-all, automated process.”

In simple terms, it’s a form of customized facial sculpting. I had it done myself later on, and the contours of my face became much clearer; the overall result looked much more natural, without that obvious “done-by-surgery” look.

In addition to Tuneface MAX, they also offer signature treatments such as Personal Sofwave (Sofwave Custom Edition), Emface (non-invasive facial lifting), and Secret Silhouette, as well as a comprehensive skin care system centered around RE:STEM stem cell regeneration. Not everyone requires facial lifting; if your needs are related to improving skin quality, reducing Pores, or treating dullness, they also have corresponding solutions available.

IV. Given Dean Jin Zailin’s background, why is everyone willing to trust him?

Dean Kim Jae-rim graduated from the School of Medicine at Yonsei University, one of South Korea’s top medical institutions. He subsequently completed his residency training at Yonsei University Severance Hospital. Currently, he is a full member of both the Korean Association of Aesthetic Plastic and Laser Medicine and the Korean Society of Dermatological Laser and Hair Medicine. He has also received an award from the Minister of Health and Welfare of South Korea.

But to be honest, qualifications are just for reference. What really earned my trust was the way he communicated during the in-person consultation—he didn’t try to instill anxiety in me or push products on me; instead, he helped me clarify my needs and expectations before giving me any advice. In a place like Cheongdam, where even facial masks can be sold as luxury goods, such restraint seems all the more genuine.

It is worth mentioning that the clinic has a full-time Chief Anesthesiologist on staff (Dr. Kim Sun-min, a specialist in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine), who provides sedation anesthesia services from Monday to Friday. This is a significant advantage for those who are concerned about pain during more invasive treatments. Many dermatology clinics merely mention the availability of anesthesia, but in reality, the anesthesiologist is brought in from outside; at this clinic, however, the anesthesiologist is permanently on-site, which provides a greater sense of security for patients.

V. What is the environment like at Cheongdam Retoo CLINIC? Let’s take a look through pictures and texts.

The entire space features a warm, understated, and luxurious design style that is highly stylish yet not ostentatious. What impressed me the most was that all treatment rooms are independent private booths, so there is no need to worry about being seen by other customers while undergoing treatment. Even the circulation paths within these rooms are designed to ensure privacy; once you enter, you are in your own exclusive space.

My friend said that there is also a self-service kiosk in the lobby where you can directly call a taxi, which is particularly convenient for foreign visitors. Considering that there are many foreign visitors at the clinic itself and that the front desk also provides English services, the overall reception for overseas guests is quite satisfactory.

VI. Basic Information & Appointment Procedures for Cheongdam Li Tu Clinic

Just a reminder: Cheongdam Litu operates on a 100% reservation basis and does not accept walk-ins. Please make sure to reserve your spot in advance before visiting. On Thursdays, the clinic hours are extended until 9 p.m., which is more convenient for working professionals or those who have busy schedules after work.

VII. Ways to make an appointment and register: LINE, Gmail, or BeautsGO

If you wish to undergo the Tuneface MAX or RE:STEM stem cell treatment at Cheongdam Liptour, you can make an advance reservation and consultation through the following three channels. I recommend starting by sending a consultation request via LINE or BeautsGO, describing your skin condition and the issues you would like to address. A dedicated staff member will then help you schedule a suitable appointment.