Which department should I see for enlarged pores?

Name: Which department should I see for enlarged pores?
Creator: Which Department
Published: 2026-09-17

2026-09-17 · Neutral information that names no hospital, doctor or region. No rankings, recommendations or reviews.

Short answer

Dermatology(피부과) is generally the first department to see for enlarged pores, as dermatologists specialize in skin structure and conditions affecting pore appearance. In some cases, if enlarged pores are associated with underlying hormonal or systemic issues, a dermatologist may coordinate care with other specialists.

Which department

1Dermatology (피부과)
Dermatologists are trained in the diagnosis and management of all conditions related to skin texture, sebaceous gland activity, and structural changes — all of which are directly relevant to enlarged pores. They can evaluate factors such as sebum production, skin elasticity, and sun damage that commonly contribute to visible pore size. — First / second line: A primary-care dermatology clinic (의원) is generally the appropriate first stop for enlarged pore concerns, as this is a non-emergency cosmetic and skin-health issue. Referral to a hospital-based dermatology department (2차 병원) is typically needed only when the concern is complex or associated with another skin condition requiring advanced evaluation.
2Plastic Surgery / Aesthetic Medicine (성형외과)
Plastic surgery departments sometimes see patients whose enlarged pore concerns overlap with broader skin aging or facial texture issues, particularly when the patient is also considering structural skin treatments. This department tends to approach skin concerns from a reconstructive and aesthetic standpoint. — First / second line: Patients generally visit a plastic surgery clinic as a first stop only when their primary concern is cosmetic in nature and they have already received a dermatological evaluation. A dermatologist referral or self-referral to an aesthetic-focused clinic is both common in the Korean healthcare setting.
3Internal Medicine (내과) — if hormonal/systemic cause is suspected
When enlarged pores occur alongside symptoms suggesting hormonal imbalance — such as oily skin, acne, irregular menstruation, or unexplained weight changes — an internist or endocrinologist may be involved to evaluate any systemic underlying causes. This is not the usual first step for pore concerns alone. — First / second line: Internal medicine is generally not the first department to visit for enlarged pores on their own. A dermatologist will typically initiate evaluation and refer to internal medicine if a systemic or hormonal cause is suspected based on the overall clinical picture.

Go to the ER / call 119 if

If any of the following applies, do not choose a department — go to an emergency room or call 119 (Korea's emergency number).

Sudden onset of widespread skin thickening, redness, or hardening that appears rapidly across the face or body alongside enlarged pores.
Enlarged pores accompanied by painful, rapidly spreading skin inflammation, swelling, or warmth that could suggest a deep skin infection.
Appearance of unusual skin lesions — such as rapidly changing growths, ulcers, or discoloration — alongside changes in pore structure.
Severe facial swelling or difficulty breathing associated with any skin change — do not select a department, go directly to the emergency room or call 119.
High fever combined with skin changes across the face or body — treat as an emergency and seek immediate care rather than scheduling a routine clinic visit.

Before your visit

Note approximately when you first noticed a change in pore appearance and whether it has been gradual or sudden.
Take clear, well-lit close-up photos of the affected skin area in natural lighting before your visit, as pore appearance can vary throughout the day.
Prepare a list of all skincare products, cosmetics, and topical treatments you currently use, including how long you have been using each.
Write down any medications or supplements you are currently taking, as some can affect sebum production and skin texture.
Think about any associated symptoms — such as oiliness, acne, redness, or sensitivity — and when they tend to be worse (morning, after exercise, certain seasons).
If you have had any previous skin evaluations, laser treatments, or procedures, bring documentation or note the approximate dates and types.

General principles

Enlarged pores are primarily a skin-structural concern involving the sebaceous (oil-producing) glands, hair follicle openings, and the surrounding skin elasticity. Because these elements fall within the scope of dermatology, Dermatology(피부과) is generally recognized as the appropriate first point of contact in the Korean medical system for this type of concern.

In the Korean healthcare system, patients generally start at a primary-level clinic (의원) for skin concerns like enlarged pores. If the evaluating dermatologist determines that the issue is associated with a more complex skin condition or requires equipment available only at a larger facility, they may issue a referral letter (진료의뢰서) to a secondary or tertiary hospital dermatology department.

Pore appearance can be influenced by a range of factors including genetics, age-related changes in skin elasticity, sebum production levels, cumulative sun exposure, and skincare habits. A dermatologist will generally consider the full picture of these contributing factors during evaluation, which is why a thorough medical and lifestyle history is helpful to bring to the appointment.

Enlarged pores are generally not covered under Korean national health insurance (건강보험) when the concern is purely cosmetic — consultations and any associated evaluations for non-medical skin concerns are typically charged at non-covered rates. However, if enlarged pores are associated with a diagnosable skin condition such as acne or seborrheic dermatitis, insurance coverage may apply in part. It is advisable to clarify billing with the clinic before your appointment.

FAQ

Should I go to a dermatology clinic (의원) or a hospital dermatology department for enlarged pores?

Generally, a primary-level dermatology clinic (피부과 의원) is sufficient as a starting point for enlarged pore concerns, as these clinics are equipped to evaluate common skin texture issues. A hospital-level dermatology department is typically visited when a referral is issued or when the concern is linked to a more complex condition. Your consulting dermatologist can guide you on whether a referral is appropriate.

Can enlarged pores be confused with another skin condition that requires a different department?

Enlarged pores can sometimes look similar to conditions such as open comedones (a form of acne), milia, or early signs of rosacea, all of which still fall primarily under Dermatology(피부과). If the skin change is accompanied by systemic symptoms — such as hormonal signs or widespread rash — the dermatologist may involve other departments. A proper evaluation is the best way to clarify what you are experiencing.

What kinds of evaluations does a dermatologist generally perform for enlarged pores?

Dermatologists typically begin with a visual skin examination and may use a dermatoscope or skin analysis device to assess pore structure, sebum levels, and skin texture in more detail — the specific tools used vary by clinic. Some clinics offer computerized skin analysis as part of the evaluation process. Any decision about further tests or treatment approaches would be made by the dermatologist based on your individual skin assessment.

Does the approach to enlarged pores differ for teenagers versus older adults?

In teenagers, enlarged pores are often associated with increased sebum production during puberty and may overlap with acne-related concerns, which a dermatologist can assess together. In older adults, reduced skin elasticity is often a contributing factor, and the dermatologist will generally take age-related skin changes into account during evaluation. In both cases, Dermatology(피부과) is the appropriate first department to consult, though the clinical context and considerations will differ.

Find a clinic (external directories)

External directories for finding a clinic by region once you know the department (public data, no rankings or recommendations).

This page is general medical information and does not replace diagnosis, treatment or choosing a clinic. Consult a doctor for any symptom. In an emergency, go to the ER or call 119 immediately.