To become a surgery doctor, it usually takes around 12 -15 years of education and training. Here is a general breakdown of the timeline:
1. Undergraduate education: 4 years
- Earn a bachelor's degree, typically in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics.
2. Medical school: 4 years
- Complete a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree program.
3. Residency: 5-7 years
- Choose a surgical specialty and complete an accredited residency program. This involves extensive hands-on training in the specialty, working under the supervision of experienced surgeons.
4. Fellowship: 1-2 years (optional)
- For further specialization, some surgeons may choose to complete a fellowship in a specific subspecialty of surgery, such as pediatric surgery or plastic surgery.
After completing all of these steps, you will have earned the necessary qualifications to practice as a surgery doctor. Depending on the specific specialty and fellowship chosen, the total time may vary.