Plastic Surgeon Job Description

A plastic surgeon is an individual who performs cosmetic procedures on patients who are interested in altering the way they look for both medical and cosmetic reasons. In this article, we will provide you with a general overview of a plastic surgeon's job description. 

Description

These physicians specialize in the reconstruction and repair of patient bodies that suffer from a wide array of deformities, including fused fingers, cleft lip and burned skin. Additionally, they work with individuals looking for personal satisfaction by way of altering various body areas, such as the eyes, nose, breasts or lips. Some plastic surgeons choose to focus their practice on sub-specialties, while others offer a wide range of procedures. Sub-specialties include cranio-maxillofacial surgery (bone repair in the skull or face) or microvascular surgery (tissue taken from one body area for use in another area). 

Duties

Surgeons will typically meet with prospective patients to go over their reasoning behind wanting the surgery and various medical conditions. They will then obtain and look over the medical history of the patient to help determine which procedure is best suited for them, while also checking for pre-existing health issues and allergies. Additionally, these physicians will examine their patients to help assert that no surgical risks are at stake. In some cases, sedatives may be administered pre-operation. These physicians also perform reconstructive procedures in order to alter the shape, appearance or size of various body parts. 

Education

8 years of post-secondary education is the minimum requirement. In most cases, it takes roughly 4 years to complete an undergraduate degree. The class load includes courses in physics, chemistry, social sciences, math and biology. Students are encouraged to take part in volunteer work at clinics and hospitals in order to obtain a bit of real world experience. Students will place a focus on lab work and classroom instruction in classes such as pharmacology, biochemistry, medical ethics and anatomy. They are always overseen by a supervisor when working with patients in medical settings, such as hospitals and clinics during the final 2 years of med school. Prospective surgeons must also complete a minimum of 5 years of added residency training in order to acquire real-life surgical and medical experience. 

Licensure

Every state across the US requires cosmetic surgeons to acquire a practice licensure. The licensing exam is offered by the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). Physicians are required to graduate from an accredited medical school prior to signing up for the exam. Additionally, physicians in the field must obtain board certification in order to practice. 

Considerations

Physicians in the plastic surgery field often spend the majority of their work time, standing. In addition, physicians will generally spend a fair amount of time traveling back and forth between their office and hospitals or clinics, providing post-operative care and meeting with patients. 

If you are interested in a career in this line of work, rest assured that you've got a long road ahead. But if you stick to your guns and make it through, the rewards can be quite bountiful indeed.