Career Research for Becoming a Plastic Surgeon
Becoming a plastic or reconstructive surgeon requires extensive educational and practical experience in surgical settings. Medical schools generally require applicants to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Your MCAT test scores are considered.
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Types
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Plastic surgeons may perform cosmetic procedures or reconstructive surgery. The most common type of plastic and reconstructive surgery procedure for women is the chemical peel. The most common plastic and reconstructive surgery for men is skin cancer reconstructive surgery.
Cosmetic facial surgery is aesthetic in nature involving changes in the nose, eyes, chin, cheekbones, neck, and rejuvenating facial plastic surgery. Rejuvenating surgery is used to reduce and minimize aging.
Education
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Educational requirements to become a plastic surgeon include at least four years of study and graduation from an accredited medical school.
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Experience
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After graduation, plastic surgeons must serve a fellowship and residency practicing under the supervision of an accredited plastic surgeon.
Requirements
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All surgeons are required to be licensed with their respective state medical licensing boards.
Earnings
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The median annual salary for cosmetic surgeons in 2009 was $211,000. The median annual salary for plastic and reconstructive surgeons in 2009 was $319,820.
Certification
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Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons can become certified by the the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). The certification organization for cosmetic surgeons is the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS).
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References
- MySalary.com: Surgeon-Plastic Reconstructive
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: About the AAFPRS
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Member Training
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: FAQs
- StateUniversity.com: Cosmetic Surgeon Job Description
- Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): About the MCAT
Resources
- Photo Credit surgery image by Andrey Rakhmatullin from Fotolia.com