While South Korea is often times cited as the go-to surgery destination in Asia (the abundance of "medical vacation" brochures at the airport is a bit of a giveaway), China also offers a plethora of minor cosmetic tune ups, usually at considerably reduced prices. Of course, when it involves surgery, price shouldn't be the main factor – so be sure to thoroughly research your doctor, medical facility, and procedure beforehand. In the meantime, here's a rundown of some minor cosmetic procedures available in China.

1) Laser Hair Removal (激光脱毛)

How it works: The high heat of a concentrated laser beams is aimed toward the unwanted hair. The heat is absorbed by pigment contained within the hair follicle, damaging the follicle and causing the hair to fall out. After multiple treatments, unwanted hair is usually either completely gone or drastically reduced.

What to expect: Depending on the area you're getting done, expect to be in the office for anywhere from one to three hours. A numbing lotion is applied to your skin where the laser will penetrate. While the laser is scanning the skin, most people report experiencing minor pain that is commonly described as a pinching or flicking sensation. For 24 hours after the session, avoid exercise, sun tanning, or swimming. And in case this doesn't go without saying – don't wax or use depilatory creams after laser treatment.

Good candidates: Those with dark, coarse hair and lighter skin require fewer treatments and usually see the best results. Those with blonde, red, or grey hairs usually don't get as good results. Dark colored skin may completely rule you out from getting laser treatment, so check with your doctor first. If you have a tan, you'll have to wait until it fades completely before getting the procedure done. Those with certain skin conditions or who are on certain medications are also disqualified from treatment, so check with your doctor.

Results: Long lasting or permanent hair removal; if hair does grow back, it's usually much less and finer.

Risks: Intense pain; red or white bumps on the skin; scabs; ingrown hairs; burns to the skin; dark or light splotches on the skin.

Cost in China: 400-1,000 RMB per session, depending on the area being treated. (vs. $150-$800 USD in the States, depending on the area being treated)

2) Teeth Whitening (牙齿美白)

How it works: Teeth yellow can become stained through years of tartar buildup, eating, and drinking beverages like tea, soda, coffee, etc. Teeth whitening products usually contain a chemical called carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide to bleach away stains and discoloration.

What to expect: The whitening process usually takes two to three sessions. Your dentist will make a mold of your mouth to create a kind of mouth guard, which will then be filled with the whitening solution and inserted into your mouth for about one hour. The whitening solution is then activated via heat or light. After your required number of sessions, you will be given a whitening solution to apply at home for two to four weeks, thirty to sixty minutes at a time.

Good candidates: Those with stained or yellow, but otherwise healthy, teeth.

Results: Whitened teeth can last for around five years, depending on your drinking and eating habits.

Risks: Chemical burns; increased risk of sensitivity to hot and/or cold.

Cost in China: Around 2,000 RMB (vs. $600-$1,200 USD in the States)

3) Varicose ("Spider") Vein Removal (静脉区张切除术)

How it works: Varicose (or "spider") veins are enlarged, sometimes twisted veins caused by abnormal blood flow. They are flat and normally become more prominent with age. The appearance of these veins is reduced through the high heat of a concentrated laser beam that is attracted to the dark pigment of the vein. The heat causes the veins to collapse, which in turn cause the color to disappear.

What to expect: It is likely that several laser treatment sessions will be needed to achieve the best results. A numbing lotion will be applied before the laser beam is directed toward the skin. If laser treatment is done on the legs, you must wear compression stockings for a few days after the treatment to avoid blood clotting and quicken healing time. It is recommended you don't wear high heels, as they have been shown to increase the number of spider veins. Laser treatment is most effective on facial spider veins or small patches on the legs. After the laser treatment, expect the veins to bruise and turn red before disappearing.

Good candidates: Laser treatment works best on lighter skin. Non-smokers, those who aren't prone to keloid scars, and those who have only superficial spider veins usually see the best results. Those who are on certain medications are disqualified from laser treatment, so check with your doctor.

Results: The reduction or complete disappearance of spider veins.

Risks: Burns on the skin; scarring; dark or light splotches on the skin; redness; tenderness; bruising; dry, flaking skin

Cost: From 2,000-8,000 RMB, depending on the area treated. (vs. around $400 USD in the States, depending on area size and depth)

4) LASIK Eye Surgery (激光眼科手术)

How it works: To correct impaired vision, the surgeon adjusts the laser for your particular prescription via computer. A thin flap is then cut in the top of your cornea and folded back. The laser removes some corneal tissue and the flap is put back in place. It's recommended that you choose a doctor who has been performing LASIK for no less than three years and who has done at least 500 procedures during that time.

What to expect: The entire out-patient procedure takes about one hour. The surgeon will place anesthetic drops in your eyes, adjust your face under the laser and place an eyelid speculum in your eye to hold open your eyelids. You will focus on a target light while the laser is reshaping your cornea. Afterwards, your vision will be a bit blurry for about 24 hours – it's recommended that you go home and sleep as much as possible. Most people feel some discomfort for a day or two afterwards that is commonly described as sandy or itchy.

Good candidates: Any type of eye condition disqualifies you from LASIK – this includes glaucoma, cataracts, infections, dry eye, etc. Your prescription must have remained the same for at least one year before the LASIK procedure to confirm that your sight is not still changing. Pregnant or nursing women cannot receive LASIK, as hormonal levels actually affect the shape of your eye. You must not have autoimmune or degenerative diseases and must be at least 21 years old.

Results: Improved vision to the point where contacts and/or glasses should no longer be needed.

Risks: Dry eyes; under- or over-correction; astigmatism (uneven corneal tissue); double vision, glares, or halos; infection; excess tears; swelling.

Cost: 5,000-10,000 RMB, depending on the amount of work needed (vs. $500-$2,000 USD per eye in the States, depending on amount of work needed)

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Keywords: minor cosmetic procedures in China surgery in China minor operations in China LASIK in China laser hair removal in China