Our Surgical Philosophy
- VIP International Plastic Surgery Center Chief Surgeon Dr. Myung Ju Lee
Childhood
I was born and raised in a small neighborhood in the countryside in South Korea. In my town, many carpenters built traditional Korean wooden houses. Surrounded by these craftsmen, I spent my childhood observing their work and began making my own wooden toys with their guidance.
I was deeply amazed by how carpenters constructed elaborate wooden structures without screws, relying only on precisely shaped pieces that fit perfectly together. The construction site became my playground. From those early years, I cultivated a natural sense of structure and sculpting ability, which later became the foundation of my delicate plastic surgery techniques.
Artistic Mind
As I grew older and considered my career path, I dreamed of pursuing a profession that combined medicine with art. Reconstructive and plastic surgery perfectly matched my passion. I devoted myself to intensive study and training in both Korea and the United States.
In 2001, I returned to Korea and opened a private clinic in the heart of Gangnam, the most famous plastic surgery district in Korea. Over the years, I have collaborated with many distinguished doctors, researchers, and university professors from around the world.
I have realized that academic diplomas and professional certifications prove knowledge and experience — but they cannot measure true artistic insight. An artistic mind is an innate gift that cannot be simply learned from textbooks. It is essential for creating balanced, harmonious, naturally beautiful facial and body proportions.
Successful plastic surgery requires more than medical skill. It demands perfectionism, refined hand technique, rich experience, profound medical knowledge, careful attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility — combined with genuine artistic sensibility to turn aesthetic ideals into real, natural results.
Inspiration
I have always been inspired by Le Corbusier, the father of modern architecture. His architectural philosophy and five points of design made me rethink the fundamental principles of plastic surgery.
I often pondered what truly makes an excellent plastic surgery result. Eventually, I realized plastic surgery and architecture share the same core philosophy: both require a solid, well-built foundation. No matter how beautiful the exterior design is, a weak foundation will eventually collapse.
Well-Structured Surgical Foundation
My surgical philosophy is built on prioritizing solid foundational structure, safe design, and long-term stability over superficial changes. Every surgery is approached like an architectural project — establishing a strong base first, then creating balanced aesthetic harmony.
Although this approach requires more time, effort, and precision, I believe every patient deserves surgery performed with strict principles, complete safety, and genuine artistic consideration. VIP promises premium surgical experiences and patient-centered service to every guest.
For a full overview of our clinic values, surgical principles, and medical philosophy, you may download our official VIP Clinic Profile below.
Download the VIP Plastic Surgery Clinic Information (PDF)