Plastic Surgeon Career Path: College Education Requirements Explained

Aspiring plastic surgeons need to complete a bachelor's degree, medical school, a residency programme, board certification, and a cosmetic surgery fellowship in their desired field. This typically takes 14 years or more, with the bachelor's degree and medical degree taking around eight years on average. After graduating, aspiring plastic surgeons will need to complete a residency programme, get certified, and (if desired) complete fellowship training for the cosmetic procedures they want to specialise in.

Undergraduate degree: four years of study in biology, physical science or a related field

Aspiring plastic surgeons need to complete four years of undergraduate education, usually in the form of a bachelor's degree in biology, physical science, or a related field. This is a crucial step in fulfilling the prerequisite coursework required for admission into medical school. While there is no specific major necessary for medical school applications, degrees in biology, chemistry, or pre-medicine are often pursued to ensure that all the necessary prerequisites are met.

During these four years of undergraduate study, students can expect to take advanced science and math classes to prepare for the rigorous coursework that lies ahead in medical school. Additionally, since plastic surgery demands a well-developed aesthetic sense, some students may choose to supplement their science-heavy curriculum with art courses.

A bachelor's degree in a relevant field serves as a solid foundation for aspiring plastic surgeons, providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue their medical ambitions. It is important to note that, in addition to completing the undergraduate degree, students must also pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and obtain a letter of recommendation to strengthen their medical school applications.

While the undergraduate degree is a significant milestone, it is just the beginning of the lengthy journey towards becoming a licensed plastic surgeon. After completing their bachelor's degree, students will typically spend another four years in medical school, earning either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. This medical school education combines classroom instruction with clinical rotations, providing a well-rounded foundation for future plastic surgeons.

Medical school: four years of classroom instruction and clinical rotations

Aspiring plastic surgeons need to complete four years of undergraduate education to obtain a bachelor's degree. This is usually in a hard science such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry or physical science, or a related field.

After this, they need to attend medical school, which typically lasts four years. During this time, students will combine classroom instruction with clinical rotations in various areas of medicine.

In the classroom, students will learn about the rigorous coursework required for a career in medicine. This includes advanced science and math classes, as well as art courses to develop an aesthetic sense.

Clinical rotations will give students hands-on experience in different areas of medicine, allowing them to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations. They will learn how to work up a patient, establish a treatment plan, and discuss surgical and non-surgical options.

After completing medical school, aspiring plastic surgeons will need to complete a residency program, get certified, and (if desired) undertake fellowship training in their chosen plastic surgery specialism.

Plastic surgery residency: six years of training in integrated plastic surgery

To become a plastic surgeon, you'll need to complete a bachelor's degree, medical school, a plastic surgery residency, board certification, and a cosmetic surgery fellowship in your desired plastic surgery field. This process can take 14 years or more.

The first step is to complete a bachelor's degree, which takes four years. Aspiring plastic surgeons often pursue degrees in biology, chemistry, or pre-medicine to fulfil prerequisite coursework before medical school.

The second step is to attend medical school, which typically lasts four years. During this time, you'll combine classroom instruction with clinical rotations in various areas of medicine.

The third step is to complete a plastic surgery residency program, which lasts six years. During this time, you'll gain hands-on experience in plastic surgery and further develop your skills.

The fourth step is to obtain board certification. This demonstrates that you have met the required standards and are qualified to practise plastic surgery independently.

Finally, you may choose to complete a cosmetic surgery fellowship in your desired plastic surgery field. This additional training allows you to specialise in specific cosmetic procedures and further enhance your skills.

While the path to becoming a plastic surgeon is lengthy, the interest in the field and the average annual salary of $300k to $600k often make all the schooling worth it.

Board certification: become certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery

Aspiring plastic surgeons need to complete a bachelor's degree, medical school, residencies, board certification, and a cosmetic surgery fellowship in their desired plastic surgery field. Earning a bachelor's degree and a medical degree will take around eight years, on average. After this time, aspiring plastic surgeons will need to complete a plastic surgery residency program, get certified, and (if desired) complete some fellowship training for the cosmetic procedures they want to specialise in.

Board certification is a crucial step in the process of becoming a plastic surgeon. To become a licensed plastic surgeon, one must obtain board certification from either the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery. This certification serves as a testament to one's expertise and qualifications in the field of plastic surgery.

The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is the primary certifying body for plastic surgeons in the United States. It is responsible for establishing and maintaining the highest standards of training, education, and ethical practice for plastic surgeons. The ABPS offers board certification to surgeons who have successfully completed an accredited residency program in plastic surgery and have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the field.

On the other hand, the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery (AOBS) is the certifying body specifically for osteopathic physicians specialising in surgery. Osteopathic medicine focuses on the body's natural tendency to heal itself and emphasises treating the whole person. The AOBS offers board certification to osteopathic physicians who have completed an accredited residency program in surgery and have met the rigorous standards set by the board.

By obtaining board certification from either the ABPS or the AOBS, plastic surgeons can assure patients and the medical community that they have received extensive training, possess specialised knowledge, and adhere to the highest standards of ethical practice in their field. This certification is a mark of distinction that enhances their credibility and demonstrates their commitment to providing safe and effective surgical care.

In summary, board certification is an essential milestone in the journey towards becoming a licensed plastic surgeon. It serves as a guarantee of the surgeon's proficiency, expertise, and adherence to ethical standards. By attaining certification from either the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery, plastic surgeons can establish themselves as qualified professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care within their specialty.

Fellowship training: optional one-year program in a cosmetic surgery specialty

To become a plastic surgeon, you'll need to complete a bachelor's degree, medical school, plastic surgery residencies, board certification, and a cosmetic surgery fellowship in your desired plastic surgery field.

Earning a bachelor's degree and a medical degree will take around eight years, on average. After this time, aspiring plastic surgeons will need to complete a plastic surgery residency program, get certified, and (if desired) complete some fellowship training for the cosmetic procedures they want to specialise in.

Fellowship training is an optional one-year program in a cosmetic surgery specialty. It is a chance for aspiring plastic surgeons to gain more experience and knowledge in a specific area of plastic surgery. This could include areas such as breast reconstruction, facial plastic surgery, or body contouring. During this year, fellows will work closely with experienced surgeons and gain hands-on experience in their chosen specialty. They may also have the opportunity to conduct research and publish their work in peer-reviewed journals.

Although it is not required, fellowship training can be highly beneficial for those who wish to specialise in a particular area of plastic surgery. It can provide a competitive edge when applying for jobs and may even lead to higher salaries. Additionally, it can help fellows develop a strong professional network and establish themselves in their field of choice.

Fellows will also have the opportunity to further develop their technical skills and refine their surgical techniques. They may be exposed to more complex cases and learn how to manage surgical complications. This additional year of training can also help fellows build their confidence and become more comfortable with the surgical procedures they will be performing.

Overall, while fellowship training is not mandatory, it can be a valuable investment for those who wish to enhance their knowledge, skills, and career prospects in the field of plastic surgery.

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