Seoul, South Korea is enjoying a new flood of plastic surgery business. In contrast to plastic surgery in the United States, anti-aging is not a factor. Rather, young Chinese people travel to Seoul for plastic surgery to ensure their future success in love and in work.

If you think things are tough in the States since the recession, think again. According to the March 1, Christian Science Monitor, “Life competition is so stiff in Korea and China, people who want to survive come to Korea for plastic surgery.” In 2010, a consulting firm estimates that the number of Chinese clients leaped nearly fivefold from the year before.

In China, Fan Bingbing and Angelababy (who achieved her own look with plastic surgery) are the actresses who currently set the bar for beauty. They have big eyes, high-bridged noses and small faces. Su Hong, a vivacious student from Beijing, was visiting Seoul primarily to fix her square jaw line, which will cost her about $4,500. She says a more oval face will get her “a better job, a nicer boyfriend, and a reflection in the mirror that I will like more.” Her mother, who also hates her own jaw, will pay for Su Hong’s operation.

A medical industry consultant says it will take about five to 10 years for plastic surgery techniques in China to equal the aesthetic skills demonstrated in Korea. Further, the accidental death of a young Chinese singer under a Chinese plastic surgeon’s knife in November 2010 has worked to decrease faith in Chinese plastic surgeons.

If you opt to travel to another country to undergo cosmetic procedures, make sure your doctor has board certification, performs the procedure in an accredited facility and that a reputable doctor will be available for necessary follow-up care. It is wise to schedule a consultation in your home area with a board-certified plastic surgeon from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery so you can get more information and make an informed decision.