How to Become a Plastic Surgeon: Training, Career Path, and Salary Guide

Plastic surgery is one of the most fascinating and competitive specialties in medicine. While many people immediately think of cosmetic procedures and Hollywood glamour, plastic surgery actually spans a wide scope of practice. From life-saving reconstructive surgeries after trauma to correcting congenital conditions, plastic surgeons play a vital role in both function and aesthetics.

The path to becoming a plastic surgeon is long, demanding, and requires years of focused training, but it is also highly rewarding. professionally, financially, and personally. This guide will walk you through every step, from your first years in college to earning board certification as a practicing plastic surgeon.

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Step 1: Begin With Your Undergraduate Degree

Your journey starts in college. Medical schools do not require a specific undergraduate major, but you must complete certain prerequisite courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and math. Many students choose pre-med tracks that align with these requirements.

Beyond coursework, strong extracurricular involvement is essential. Admissions committees want to see evidence of your commitment to healthcare, leadership, and service. Activities may include:

• Clinical exposure through internships, shadowing, or scribing
• Volunteering in healthcare or community settings
• Research experience in the sciences
• Meaningful hobbies or leadership positions in clubs

Maintaining a strong GPA is crucial, and early planning helps you tailor your academic record to the requirements of medical schools that are strong in surgical training. If you’re seeking impactful clinical exposure before applying, a pre-med internship abroad can provide hands-on experience and help you stand out in your applications.

Step 2: Apply to Medical School

Gaining admission to medical school is the next milestone. Most U.S. schools require the MCAT, a rigorous standardized exam that tests scientific knowledge and critical thinking.

Applications are processed through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) and include transcripts, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and secondary applications. Because plastic surgery is highly competitive, aim to build a well-rounded application that demonstrates academic excellence and sustained interest in surgery.

Step 3: Complete Four Years of Medical School

Medical school typically lasts four years and is divided into pre-clinical and clinical phases.

• Years 1–2 (Pre-clinical): You’ll study foundational medical sciences, anatomy, physiology, pathology, and the basics of patient care.
• Years 3–4 (Clinical): You’ll rotate through different specialties—internal medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN, psychiatry, and surgery—gaining real patient experience under supervision.

Students interested in plastic surgery should actively seek surgical electives, mentorship, and research opportunities related to reconstructive or cosmetic surgery. International medical electives can be especially valuable, offering exposure to surgical procedures and patient cases rarely encountered in Western hospitals.

Step 4: Residency and Specialization

Plastic surgery residency is among the longest and most competitive in medicine. Programs can last six years and include both general surgery and plastic surgery training.

To secure a spot, you’ll need strong USMLE scores, excellent recommendations, and evidence of surgical interest (such as research, shadowing, and electives). Networking with faculty during your clinical rotations and sub-internships is also vital for building connections.

Step 5: Board Certification and Licensing

After completing residency, aspiring plastic surgeons must pass the rigorous exams of the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). These include both written and oral components to assess medical knowledge, technical skills, and ethical judgment.

Once board certified, you are officially licensed to practice plastic surgery in the United States. Many surgeons also pursue additional fellowships in subspecialties such as hand surgery, craniofacial surgery, microsurgery, or cosmetic surgery.

Key Skills Every Plastic Surgeon Needs

Academic training is only part of the picture. Successful plastic surgeons also cultivate essential personal and professional skills:

• Precision and steady hands for detailed surgical procedures
• Strong communication to build patient trust
• Active listening to fully understand patient goals
• Creativity in both reconstructive and aesthetic cases
• Resilience to manage long hours and complex operations
  
  

Career Outlook and Salary

Plastic surgery consistently ranks among the highest-earning specialties in medicine. According to recent salary data, the average U.S. plastic surgeon earns around $368,000 annually, with higher salaries in states such as Minnesota, Nevada, and Massachusetts.

Income can vary based on subspecialty, practice setting, geographic region, and years of experience. Cosmetic surgeons in private practice often earn more, while reconstructive surgeons in academic or hospital-based positions may focus more on teaching and research.

Is Plastic Surgery Right for You?

Plastic surgery is not just about aesthetics. It is about restoring function, confidence, and quality of life. If you are detail-oriented, resilient, and passionate about combining art and science in medicine, this may be the right specialty for you.

Before committing, it’s wise to shadow practicing plastic surgeons and explore different subspecialties. International surgery electives can also help you confirm your interest by providing firsthand surgical experience in resource-limited settings.

Final Thoughts

The road to becoming a plastic surgeon can take more than a decade of study and training, but the rewards are immense. You’ll join a field that blends technical expertise with artistry, offers diverse career paths, and provides life-changing care to patients.

If you’re ready to start building your medical journey, consider a Go Elective internship in Kenya or Tanzania to gain global health exposure and hands-on experience that will strengthen your future applications.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives, Med Schools, Residency,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 12, 2025