Plastic surgery is a highly specialized field of medicine that focuses on reconstructive and cosmetic procedures to enhance or restore a person’s appearance. Becoming a plastic surgeon requires extensive education, rigorous training, and years of dedication.
In this guide, we will explore the necessary steps to become a plastic surgeon, the best degrees for this career, and potential earnings in the field.
Steps to Becoming a Plastic Surgeon
1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step to becoming a plastic surgeon is obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Aspiring plastic surgeons typically pursue a pre-medical undergraduate degree, focusing on subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy. Some of the most common majors include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Biomedical Sciences
- Health Sciences
Maintaining a high GPA is crucial, as medical school admission is highly competitive. Additionally, students should gain experience through internships, research, or volunteering in medical settings to strengthen their applications. Extracurricular activities, such as shadowing physicians or participating in medical outreach programs, can also demonstrate commitment to the field of medicine.
2. Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized exam required for medical school admission. The test evaluates knowledge in biological sciences, physical sciences, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. A strong MCAT score significantly increases the chances of getting accepted into a top medical school. Preparation for the MCAT often involves months of study, including practice exams and review courses.
3. Attend Medical School (4 Years)
After completing a bachelor’s degree and passing the MCAT, the next step is enrolling in a medical school accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) in the U.S. or a similar governing body in other countries.
Medical school typically lasts four years and is divided into two phases:
- First Two Years: Classroom-based learning covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and medical ethics. This phase builds a strong foundation in medical science and prepares students for clinical experiences.
- Last Two Years: Clinical rotations allow students to gain hands-on experience in different medical specialities, including surgery. These rotations provide exposure to patient care and the decision-making processes in various fields of medicine.
Upon completing medical school, graduates earn either a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree.
4. Pass the USMLE or COMLEX Exams
To practice medicine, graduates must pass licensing exams:
- United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) for M.D. students
- Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) for D.O. students
These exams assess knowledge and skills required for medical practice and are necessary for obtaining residency placements. They consist of multiple steps, including written tests and clinical skills evaluations. Excelling in these exams is essential for securing a competitive residency position.
5. Complete a Plastic Surgery Residency (6 Years)
After medical school, doctors must complete a plastic surgery residency, which typically lasts six years. There are two main pathways:
- Independent Pathway: Completing a general surgery residency (3-5 years) followed by a plastic surgery residency (2-3 years).
- Integrated Pathway: Directly entering a plastic surgery residency for six years after medical school.
During residency, aspiring plastic surgeons receive hands-on training in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, including:
- Facial surgery
- Breast reconstruction
- Hand surgery
- Burn repair
- Cosmetic procedures (e.g., rhinoplasty, liposuction, facelifts)
Residency programs also include research opportunities, where residents contribute to advancements in surgical techniques and patient care. The rigorous training ensures surgeons develop the skills and confidence needed to perform complex procedures.
6. Obtain Board Certification
After completing residency, surgeons can seek board certification from organizations such as:
- The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) (U.S.)
- The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
- The General Medical Council (UK)
Board certification involves passing written and oral exams and demonstrating expertise in plastic surgery. It is a mark of professional competence and is often required by employers and patients seeking qualified surgeons.
7. Consider Fellowship Training (Optional)
For further specialization, some plastic surgeons complete a fellowship in areas such as:
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Aesthetic (Cosmetic) Surgery
Fellowships typically last 1-2 years and provide advanced training in specific plastic surgery techniques. These programs are ideal for surgeons who wish to focus on niche areas of the field or pursue academic and research opportunities.
8. Obtain a Medical License and Start Practicing
After completing training, plastic surgeons must obtain a medical license from their respective country or state. They can then work in hospitals, private clinics, or open their own practice. Continuous education and professional development are essential to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.
Which Degree is Best for Becoming a Plastic Surgeon?
To become a plastic surgeon, you must complete an M.D. or D.O. degree. However, the best undergraduate degrees to prepare for medical school include:
- Biology (most common choice)
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biomedical Sciences
- Health Sciences
While no specific undergraduate degree is required, a strong background in science is essential. Additionally, students should focus on extracurricular activities, research, and internships related to medicine. These experiences not only strengthen medical school applications but also provide valuable insights into the healthcare profession.
How Much Can a Plastic Surgeon Earn?
Plastic surgery is one of the most lucrative medical specialities. The earning potential varies based on location, experience, and area of specialization.
Average Salaries by Country:
- United States: $400,000 – $800,000 per year
- United Kingdom: £100,000 – £200,000 per year
- Australia: AUD 300,000 – AUD 600,000 per year
- Canada: CAD 300,000 – CAD 500,000 per year
- Thailand: THB 3,000,000 – THB 10,000,000 per year
Factors Affecting Income:
- Experience: Senior plastic surgeons earn significantly more than entry-level surgeons.
- Specialization: Cosmetic surgeons often earn more than reconstructive surgeons due to high-demand elective procedures.
- Location: Urban areas with high demand for plastic surgery tend to have higher salaries.
- Private Practice vs. Hospital: Surgeons in private practice such as Kamol Hospital generally earn more due to direct patient billing.
Most Profitable Procedures:
- Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)
- Breast Augmentation
- Liposuction
- Facelifts
- Tummy Tucks
Cosmetic procedures are often more profitable because they are elective and typically paid out-of-pocket by patients. In contrast, reconstructive procedures may be covered by insurance but yield lower reimbursements.
The Rewards and Challenges of a Career in Plastic Surgery
Rewards:
- Financial Stability: Plastic surgery offers high earning potential, making it one of the most financially rewarding medical specialities.
- Personal Fulfillment: Surgeons have the opportunity to improve patients’ quality of life by restoring function and boosting self-confidence.
- Professional Prestige: The field is highly respected, and board-certified plastic surgeons are recognized for their expertise and skill.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: Plastic surgeons can choose to specialize in various areas, from reconstructive surgery to cosmetic enhancements.
Challenges:
- Lengthy Training: Becoming a plastic surgeon requires over a decade of education and training, which demands perseverance and dedication.
- High Stress Levels: The responsibility of performing complex procedures can be mentally and emotionally taxing.
- Competitive Field: Admission to medical school, residency programs, and fellowships is highly competitive, requiring exceptional academic and clinical performance.
- Ongoing Learning: Surgeons must stay updated with advancements in surgical techniques and technologies through continuous education.
Conclusion
Becoming a plastic surgeon is a long and challenging journey that requires extensive education and training. A strong academic foundation, medical school, and specialized surgical training are essential to entering the field. While it takes over a decade to qualify, the career is highly rewarding, both financially and professionally.
Plastic surgeons have the opportunity to change lives, restore confidence, and make a significant impact in the field of medicine. Whether focusing on reconstructive procedures or aesthetic enhancements, plastic surgeons play a vital role in improving patients’ physical and emotional well-being.
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