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Would you recommend a career in Plastic Surgery?
I’m considering going into medicine, but I don’t know what specialty is right for me. I would like a career where I can tackle important problems and make people’s lives better. What do you guys think? Would this be the right specialty? I’m trying to figure out which one is right for me. #doctor #medicine #healthcare #career #career-choice
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5 answers
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Dennis’s Answer
Hello, although I have no personal knowledge in this field, hopefully the following will help
Career Profile
Plastic Surgeon Job Description
Plastic surgeons are medical doctors who perform surgeries to reconstruct damaged or malformed features and/or alter and shape various parts of the human body such as the face, ears, torso and hands. For example, if a person wants to change the profile of their nose, or need liposuction, they will seek the help of a plastic surgeon. In this instance, the plastic surgeon may be known more specifically as a cosmetic surgeon since any potential surgery will be performed for aesthetic purposes.
Plastic Surgeon Requirements
Plastic surgeons must be focused and be in good physical condition as they sometimes have to remain standing for many hours at a time when performing complex operations. Surgeons must also have good hand-eye condition and a steady hand with strong attention to detail. It is also important to possess strong communication skills since surgeons need to work in surgical teams and demonstrate empathy with their patients. Finally, surgeons need to be dedicated as the profession demands constant continuing education in addition to the years of initial educational preparation.
Career Profile
Plastic Surgeon Job Description
Plastic surgeons are medical doctors who perform surgeries to reconstruct damaged or malformed features and/or alter and shape various parts of the human body such as the face, ears, torso and hands. For example, if a person wants to change the profile of their nose, or need liposuction, they will seek the help of a plastic surgeon. In this instance, the plastic surgeon may be known more specifically as a cosmetic surgeon since any potential surgery will be performed for aesthetic purposes.
Plastic Surgeon Requirements
Plastic surgeons must be focused and be in good physical condition as they sometimes have to remain standing for many hours at a time when performing complex operations. Surgeons must also have good hand-eye condition and a steady hand with strong attention to detail. It is also important to possess strong communication skills since surgeons need to work in surgical teams and demonstrate empathy with their patients. Finally, surgeons need to be dedicated as the profession demands constant continuing education in addition to the years of initial educational preparation.
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Plastics is a great field. You can get there by doing a general surgery 5 year residency after medical school + a 3 year plastics fellowship (total 8 years) or an integrated plastics residency after medical school (6 years). Great quality of life and does not involve a large amount of call unless you see it out (hand or face call). Compensation can be very generous. Patients are typically friendly and appreciative.
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Yes. Despite the long training path which can be 6-8 years after medical school, plastic surgery can be a very rewarding career. They perform a variety of procedures and generally have a better lifestyle than the average physician.
Updated
Blake’s Answer
Hey Shawn,
I would recommend shadowing a doctors office or surgery clinic to see what you like and what you might be doing day to day.
Thanks,
Blake
I would recommend shadowing a doctors office or surgery clinic to see what you like and what you might be doing day to day.
Thanks,
Blake
Updated
Estelle’s Answer
Plastic surgery is a great specialty. The best way to determine your interest would be to shadow plastic surgeons. During medical school you will have the opportunity to do plastics rotations during your 3rd & 4th years. Plastic surgery is a competitive specialty. You will need to be in the top of your class in med school.