Plastic Surgery Medical Doctor Education Board Certified United States

Doctors have to meet many "requirements" (things that must be done) before they can "practice" (work as doctors) in the United States. They have to complete a certain amount of general education, general medical education, and education in their "specialty" (an area of specialization, or the type of medicine a doctor focuses on). Doctors also have to complete a "residency" (a period of time where a new doctor works under the close supervision of another, more experienced doctor).

Many "boards" (professional organizations) "certify" (officially say that someone has met specific requirements) that someone has met published standards in particular specialties. These are usually a combination of education and experience, as well as an exam. When the doctor has been certified by a board, we say that he or she is "board certified." Certification usually lasts only a few years, so the doctors must recertify. This may require courses for "continuing education" (education after one has already earned the degree) and additional exams.

The American Board of Medical Specialties helps 24 different boards develop standards for different medical specialties. One of them, the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certifies plastic surgeons in the United States. If you want to find a good plastic surgeon, ABPS can help you find a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area. Most people agree that working with a board-certified plastic surgeon - or any other type of medical professional - is a good idea. If you don't select a board-certified doctor, you "run the risk" (accept the chance that something bad might happen) of selecting a doctor who doesn't have enough experience or education to correctly perform the surgery or procedure you need.