Botox · Apgujeong, Seoul
Trapezius Botox in Apgujeong & Cheongdam, Gangnam, Seoul
Relaxes the upper trapezius muscle to soften a bulky, high shoulder line and give the neck a longer look.
Quick answer
Every Botox plan at Oaro Dermatology Clinic begins with a 1:1 examination by a board-certified dermatologist, so the toxin, dose and injection points are set for your muscles rather than a template. Meet our doctors or see all injectables.
At a glance
| Procedure time | About 10–20 minutes |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Usually not needed; numbing cream or ice on request |
| Results start | Muscle relaxes in 1–2 weeks; visible slimming over 4–8 weeks |
| Results last | About 4–6 months; repeat sessions can prolong this |
| Downtime | None to minimal; shoulders may feel tired for a few weeks |
| Sessions | One; often repeated every 4–6 months |
| Performed by | Board-certified dermatologist |
Visual guide
Your treatment on one page
This infographic sums up the treatment the way our dermatologists explain it in consultation: the muscle or gland being treated, how long it takes, when results start and how long they usually last, plus the three steps of your visit. Save it to your phone before you come in, or share it with someone planning the trip with you.
- Typical timings, downtime and number of sessions
- Who the treatment suits, in plain words
- Your visit: diagnosis, precise injections, review at 2–4 weeks
Oaro Dermatology Clinic · 8F Cheongdam Tower, 327 Dosan-daero, where Apgujeong meets Cheongdam in Gangnam, Seoul · 8 minutes on foot from Apgujeong Rodeo Station
Overview
What is trapezius Botox?
The trapezius is a large muscle across the upper back. Its upper part runs from the base of the skull and neck out to the shoulders, and when it is thick, often from posture, desk work, carrying heavy bags or training, the shoulders can look high and rounded and the neck shorter. In Korea the treatment is widely requested for a smoother, more sloping shoulder line.
Toxin injected into the upper trapezius reduces how hard the muscle works. Over the following weeks it becomes less bulky, much as the jaw slims after masseter treatment, and the curve from neck to shoulder softens. Some people also say their shoulders feel less tight, but at Oaro this is offered as a contouring treatment, and ongoing neck or shoulder pain should be assessed medically first.
How trapezius Botox works at Oaro
At Oaro Dermatology Clinic, on the 8th floor of Cheongdam Tower about 8 minutes on foot from Apgujeong Rodeo Station, a board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Chang-hyun Kim or Dr. Ji-ho Park examines your shoulders from the front, back and side. The dermatologist feels the muscle while you shrug, compares left and right, and asks about your work, sport and the bags you carry before setting the dose and injection pattern.
Because the trapezius helps lift and steady the arms, the plan balances visible slimming with everyday strength. Patients often combine shoulder contouring with calf Botox or other body contouring treatments at our Gangnam clinic.
Why patients choose Oaro for Botox
- Dose and injection points set by a board-certified dermatologist after examining your muscles
- Korean-made toxins such as Nabota and imported brands explained honestly, with units compared fairly
- Written aftercare and a review at 2–4 weeks, in person or by message
- Private 1:1 rooms in Cheongdam Tower, 8 minutes from Apgujeong Rodeo Station
- English-friendly coordination and clear, itemised pricing
Treatment goals
Common goals for trapezius Botox
A longer-looking neck
When the upper trapezius is bulky, the neck can look short from the front. As the muscle slims, more of the neck shows between jaw and shoulders, which many people notice most in photos.
A softer, sloping shoulder line
A rounded bulk between neck and shoulder can make open necklines sit awkwardly. Reducing it creates a gentler slope from neck to shoulder.
More even shoulders
Some people have one side noticeably larger, often from carrying a bag on the same shoulder. Different doses on each side can improve balance, although exact symmetry cannot be promised.
Keeping the result over time
With repeat sessions the muscle may stay smaller for longer, and some patients can then space sessions further apart. Each session is planned after a fresh review.
Your visit
What to expect
1. Consultation & diagnosis
Your dermatologist asks about neck or shoulder pain, previous injuries, sport and work habits, medical conditions and medicines, then assesses the thickness of the muscle on each side. If your concern is pain or posture rather than shape, you may be advised to see a physician or physiotherapist as well.
2. Treatment
You sit upright with relaxed shoulders while points are marked across the upper trapezius on each side. Several injections are placed into the muscle with a fine needle, usually in 10–20 minutes. Most people feel brief stings and some pressure; numbing cream or ice is available.
3. Aftercare & follow-up
You receive written aftercare and can return to normal activities the same day, avoiding heavy upper-body training. The muscle relaxes over the first weeks and visible slimming develops over 4–8 weeks. A review at 4–8 weeks, in person or by message with photos, lets your dermatologist judge the change and plan the next session.
Cost guide
Trapezius Botox cost in Seoul
The trapezius is a large muscle and needs considerably more toxin than facial areas, although Korean-made toxins keep it relatively affordable in Seoul. The ranges below are typical of Seoul clinics, not fixed prices; muscle size and the brand chosen affect the total. Units differ between brands and should not be compared directly. You will receive an itemised quote in English.
| Option | Typical range (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Trapezius (both sides), Korean-made toxin (e.g. Nabota) | ₩150,000–₩350,000 |
| Trapezius (both sides), imported toxin | ₩300,000–₩600,000 |
| Trapezius with calf Botox, Korean-made toxin | ₩300,000–₩700,000 |
Exact pricing is confirmed at consultation after examination.
Aftercare
Aftercare
- Avoid massaging or pressing on your shoulders that day, and postpone sports massage or chiropractic treatment for about 2 weeks.
- Skip heavy lifting, shoulder-focused gym work and intense exercise for 24–48 hours.
- Your shoulders may tire more easily when carrying heavy bags or reaching overhead for a few weeks; a lighter bag or a wheeled case helps.
- Mild bruising or tenderness at the points is common and usually settles within a few days; a cold pack can help.
- Contact the clinic promptly if you notice marked weakness lifting your arms, difficulty holding up your head or any trouble swallowing.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chang-hyun Kim, M.D.
Board-certified dermatologist and Representative Director of Oaro Dermatology Clinic, Cheongdam. Member of the Korean Dermatological Association, the Korean Filler Society, the Korean Society for Dermatologic Laser and the Korean Anti-Aging Society.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Will trapezius Botox make my shoulders weak?
The aim is to slim the muscle while keeping everyday strength. Some people notice temporary shoulder fatigue, a heavy feeling, or that reaching overhead or carrying heavy bags is a little harder for a few weeks. Neck ache, tenderness, bruising and headache are other possible side effects. Higher doses raise the chance of neck weakness, so if you lift heavy weights, climb or play overhead sports, mention it at consultation.
Who should avoid trapezius Botox?
Please postpone if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a skin infection on the shoulders, or are unwell. It is not suitable for people with a neuromuscular disorder such as myasthenia gravis or an allergy to toxin ingredients. Tell your dermatologist about all medicines, especially blood thinners and aminoglycoside antibiotics, and about any neck or shoulder injury, nerve problem or recent surgery in the area.
How long until I see a difference?
Trapezius Botox works gradually. The toxin relaxes the muscle within the first couple of weeks, but visible slimming builds over 4–8 weeks as the muscle becomes less bulky. The effect usually lasts about 4–6 months, so plan weddings or holidays with this in mind.
Can I have trapezius Botox while visiting Seoul?
Yes. The treatment takes around 15 minutes with no real downtime, so you can keep exploring Gangnam and the rest of Seoul the same day. Flying afterwards is generally considered fine, but use a wheeled case rather than carrying heavy luggage on your shoulders. Most of the change will appear after you return home; your dermatologist can review progress by message and plan a repeat for your next visit.
Is this a treatment for shoulder pain?
Not at our clinic between Apgujeong and Cheongdam, where trapezius Botox is offered for contouring the shoulder line. Some people find their shoulders feel less tense afterwards, but this varies. Persistent pain, headaches or numbness should be assessed by a physician, as they may need different treatment.
Explore related care
Often considered together
- Calf Botox — slims prominent calf muscles
- Neck Botox — relaxes vertical neck bands
- Masseter Botox — slims a square jaw on the same principle
- Body Contouring — more ways to refine body shape
- Botox in Korea — a complete guide for international patients
- Contact & Booking — book a consultation in Apgujeong, Seoul
Private 1:1 consultation
Plan your Botox with a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Tell us what you would like to change. We will examine the muscles involved, explain which toxin and dose suit you and give you a written plan with clear pricing. English-speaking coordinators help international patients visiting Cheongdam, Gangnam and the rest of Seoul.