The complete guide to becoming a plastic surgeon

People tend to have strong opinions on plastic surgery. Many whittle plastic surgery down to botched celebrities’ faces and over-the-top Botox. However, cosmetic surgeons have to undergo rigorous education and training. It can take ten years to become a fully trained plastic surgery, and that’s just the beginning. Plastic surgeons reconstruct trauma injuries, birth defects and help people to feel their most beautiful. 

Here are a few things you should know if you want to become a plastic surgeon. 

It’s a lot of hard work

Training to become a plastic surgeon involves over 100-hour weeks, constant training and overnight shifts. You need to research your field and educate yourself on the latest innovations. The best plastic surgeons stay up to date on their specialty and make an effort to learn new techniques. You need to be prepared for long working hours and even longer surgeries. 

There’s a lot more to it than surgery

Surgery is only part of the job. You will need to spend time with your patients to ease their worries and answer their questions. You will need to examine them and look out for any health concerns. You will see your patients before the surgery and after to check on their recovery. The surgical procedure is only half the battle. You need to make sure your patient is looking after their body. 

Patients don’t always like their results 

Plastic surgeons often work with patients who want to alter the look of their bodies. They might want a facelift, nose job, or cheek fillers to combat the signs of age. However, after you have completed the procedure, patients aren’t always happy with the outcome. It’s your responsibility to prepare them for the before and after outcome. You can show them pictures of other outcomes and try to ease their initial shock. Some plastic surgeons will correct the surgery for free if the patient still doesn’t like it one year later.   

Remember that you know best

You need to screen your patients to make sure they are fit for the surgery. For example, if a patient wants a larger breast size to impress their fiancé, you should spot the red flag immediately. Remember that you are the doctor, and your procedure probably won’t give them the outcome they’re looking for. You could even refer them to a psychologist in concerning cases.

Prepare yourself for everything involved with a career in plastic surgery.