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This question is about what a plastic surgeon does.
What degree do you need to be a plastic surgeon?
You need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college and a medical degree to become a plastic surgeon. There are additional steps after earning these degrees that must be completed before someone can practice as a plastic surgeon.
Like most physician positions, you must hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study such as biology, chemistry, or mathematics. Upon earning a degree, candidates must pass the MCAT entrance exam for medical schools. A four-year degree as a D.O or M.D. will allow you to apply for a medical license.
The USMLE is a licensing exam for M.D.s, while the USMLE and COMLEX exams are required for D.O.s.
Once licensed, a three-year residency must be completed. Here, you will be exposed to a variety of areas of plastic surgery. Additionally, some residents then enroll in a fellowship lasting approximately one year to further learn one specialized area within the field of plastic surgery.
Finally, most licensed and practicing plastic surgeons apply for board certification. Typically certification involves hours of experience coupled with both oral and written exams.
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