What Does It Mean to Be a Board-Certified Plastic surgeon?

If you’re considering plastic surgery, it’s important to know that not all surgeons are created equal. Board certification is an important credential to look for when searching for a plastic surgeon. What does it mean to be board certified? Let’s take a closer look.

Board certification is a voluntary process that surgeons can undergo to demonstrate their dedication to the field of plastic surgery. To become board certified, a surgeon first needs to achieve the following.

What Does It Take To Be Board Certified?

1. Completion of an Accredited Residency

To be accepted into a residency program, surgeons must complete a four-year undergraduate degree and then earn their medical degree (either an MD or DO). In addition, a surgeon must complete an accredited residency training program in plastic surgery.
There are only about 145 programs across the country that the American Board of Plastic Surgery accredits, so this is no small feat. During residency, surgeons learn how to perform various plastic surgery procedures and hone their skills.

2. Pass a Written and Oral Examination

After completing a residency program, surgeons must pass a comprehensive written and oral examination administered by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The written exam tests a surgeon’s knowledge of plastic surgery principles, while the oral exam assesses their ability to apply that knowledge in a clinical setting. Surgeons who pass both exams are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

3. Complete Continuing Medical Education

Once a surgeon has achieved board certification, they must maintain it by completing continuing medical education every year and passing periodic re-certification exams. Continuing medical education helps surgeons stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in plastic surgery to provide their patients with the best possible care.

Why Is Board Certification Important?

1. It Ensures the Surgeon Has the Necessary Training

When choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, you can be confident that you’re choosing a surgeon with the necessary training and skills to perform your desired procedure. Board-certified surgeons have completed rigorous residency programs and passed comprehensive exams, so you can rest assured that they are well-qualified to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

2. It Shows the Surgeon Is Committed

To become board certified, surgeons must go above and beyond what is required. They must complete an accredited residency program, pass a written and oral examination, and complete continuing medical education every year. This demonstrates a dedication to the field of plastic surgery that you can be confident in.

3. Means Surgeon Is Up-To-Date on Advancements

Because board-certified surgeons must complete continuing medical education every year, you can be confident that they are up-to-date on the latest advancements in plastic surgery. This allows them to provide you with the most current treatment options and helps ensure the best possible results.

Contact Us Today

If you’re considering plastic surgery, choose a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Dallas Homas. Board certification is an important credential that ensures the surgeon has the necessary training and skills to perform your desired procedure. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at New Image Plastic Surgery in San Antonio, TX.