What Is Needed to Become a Plastic Surgeon?

A plastic surgeon is a medical doctor who performs surgical operations to repair or change the appearance of parts of a person's body. To enter the field, prospective plastic surgeons must meet certain educational and licensing requirements.

Types of Undergraduate Education

The first step for becoming a plastic surgeon is obtaining a bachelor's degree. The most common majors for undergraduates who wish to become physicians are biology and inorganic or organic chemistry.

Identification: Professional Education

After receiving a bachelor's degree, students must then attend a medical school program followed by a two-year plastic surgery residency, which is approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada or the American Dental Association.

Features

Medical school combines classroom instruction with clinical, hands-on practice. The courses of study for plastic surgeons includes anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology and medical ethics.

Time Frame

Bachelor's degrees typically require four years to complete, while medical school takes an additional four years. The minimum length of time required for a plastic surgery residency is two years, according to the American College of Surgeons.

Licensing Considerations

In addition to the proper education, plastic surgeons must pass a state licensing exam to become a surgeon. Before working independently as a plastic surgeon, doctors must pass a written examination given by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Industry Overview
• American Board of Plastic Surgery
• American College of Surgeons