You’ve decided to explore the world of cosmetic surgery. You may have been inspired by an episode of Grey’s Anatomy, or you might just be a fixer at heart. The road ahead is exciting and challenging, no matter what your motivation. Article source!

First, prepare yourself for the long road of medical school. Lectures, labs and late-night runs to the coffee shop are all part of four years of medical school. From anatomy to biochemistry, you’ll learn it all. It’s overwhelming, but necessary.

It’s now time to start your residency after medical school. Here is where it all begins. A residency in general surgery typically lasts for five years. Imagine long hours, sleepless night, and learning as you go. Keep your eye on the prize, plastic surgery.

After completing your general surgery residency training, you will then receive a specialized plastic surgery training. Usually, this takes two to three additional years. This is where you can hone in on your reconstructive and cosmetic skills. You will be sculpting with more than clay. You’ll also be working on living tissue.

Board certification is not easy to achieve. The first step is to pass written exams, which test your knowledge in all areas of cosmetic surgery. This is like studying for finals again, but with steroids.

The oral exam is next. This is probably the most nerve-racking experience you will ever have. Imagine seasoned surgeons grilling your case studies as you sweat bullets to not mess up.

Wait! There’s more! You need to have a logbook that documents every procedure performed during the training period, down to each stitch and suture.

Never forget to continue your education, either. Medicine never stops! Staying updated on the latest techniques is essential if you wish to maintain your credentials over time.

Attending conferences and keeping up with industry standards can also help.

Fellowships are also an option, but they offer a deeper dive into sub-specialties such as craniofacial surgery or hand surgery. They can help you stand out from your peers and add another feather to your cap!

Yes, becoming board certified is not a walk in the park. It’s a marathon that requires stamina, dedication and resilience with humour sprinkled along the way!