Although many universities offer pre-med Bachelor of Science degrees geared toward becoming a medical doctor, there are many cases that a generic Bachelor of Science degree and an adequate MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) score are enough to gain acceptance to medical school. Undergraduate students aiming to proceed to medical school after their graduations prioritize such specific courses as biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics and biotechnology. To help gain practical experience in the medical field, many students also volunteer at local hospitals and clinics.
After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree and passing the MCAT, acceptance to medical school requires approximately four years of medical schooling. Expertise in the field of plastic surgery requires rigid studies and training in biology, anatomy and surgical and cosmetic procedures. Medical courses include pathology, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, chemotherapy and anesthetics. Medical students are also required to have extensive exposure to immediate care during medical emergencies, shock, blood replacement and wound treatments and healing.
After earning a medical-doctor degree, a plastic surgeon needs to pursue residencies and fellowships. He visits a variety of health care facilities including hospitals and clinics to learn an overview of the special skills needed in the field, while gaining hands-on experience as a medical doctor. The path a plastic surgeon typically undertakes includes a residency in urology, neurosurgery, orthopedic or otolaryngology for about three to four years, then another residency for plastic surgery that usually lasts another two to three years. For their residency as plastic surgeons, their priority training involves special education in anatomy, reconstructive surgery, tissue transplantation and wound management.
Passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is required before officially becoming a plastic surgeon. The doctor must be licensed in the specific state or territory of practice. Many plastic surgeons also gain board certification from the American Board of Medical Specialists (ABMS). Although this is not required for the medical practice, additional legitimacy from being certified is essential for recognition and credibility, especially with patients looking for doctors. Like all medical doctors, a plastic surgeon is required to take continued-education courses to ensure maintenance of licensure and renewal of certification.