Students should pursue a college preparatory curriculum while in high school. You should take courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, physiology and higher level math as well as social sciences.
Most medical school applicants have a 4-year bachelor's degree, but occasionally students who have completed 3 years may be accepted. No particular degree is required, but the degree should have a strong science background with a high GPA.
Many students take professional classes to help them prepare for the MCAT. These are offered on a non-credit basis. Study guides and practice tests are also available.
Two years of professional medical coursework follow the undergraduate degree. During this time students will study a variety of topics such as anatomy, pharmacology, microbiology and ethics.
Most MDs enter a 12-month internship after medical school. This is the point in which a doctor who wants to become a plastic surgeon would specialize. A residency in plastic surgery would follow the internship and last 2 to 7 years.
Board certification is a requirement in all states to become a licensed plastic surgeon. This is usually obtained after the residency.