As a leading expert in the field of plastic surgery, I am often asked about the highest certification for a plastic surgeon. In my professional opinion, the most prestigious and credible certification for a plastic surgeon is from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), which is a member board of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). This certification is recognized as the “gold standard” in medical certification and is highly sought after by plastic surgeons. The ABPS is the only member board of the ABMS that certifies plastic surgeons in full-body reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. This means that plastic surgeons who are certified by the ABPS have undergone rigorous training and have met strict requirements to be considered experts in their field.
It is important to note that the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, which is not a member of the ABMS, certifies doctors from a variety of specialties, including those with little or no training in plastic surgery procedures. As such, their certification requirements are considerably lower than those met by “true board-certified plastic surgeons.”To become certified by the ABPS, plastic surgeons must first complete a full 5-year residency in general surgery. After this, they must then complete an additional two-year fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. This extensive training ensures that they have a wealth of knowledge and practical experience in all aspects of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. It is also worth noting that both the ABPS and the American Board of Surgery (a member board of the ABMS) certify plastic surgeons.
This means that board-certified plastic surgeons have received certification from not just one, but two highly reputable organizations. One concern in the field of plastic surgery is when individuals who are not properly trained or certified claim to be experts in the field. This is why it is crucial for patients to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon. By doing so, they can be sure that their surgeon has undergone extensive training and has been certified by reputable organizations such as the ABPS and the ABMS. It is also important to note that being licensed does not necessarily indicate if a doctor is qualified to practice in a specific medical specialty, such as plastic surgery. To verify a doctor's qualifications and certifications, individuals can contact their state's medical board.
This will provide them with information about the doctor's education, certification, and any disciplinary measures that may have been taken against them. While there are other boards that certify plastic surgeons, none are as highly regarded as the ABPS. This is because the ABPS is the only plastic surgery board recognized by the ABMS. This makes board certification by the ABPS the most credible certification a plastic surgeon can obtain. The ABPS is dedicated to promoting safe, ethical, and effective plastic surgery among the public. They maintain high standards in terms of education, testing, certification, and maintaining the certification of plastic surgeons as specialists and subspecialists.
This ensures that patients receive the best possible care from qualified and experienced plastic surgeons. It is also worth mentioning that there are two distinct professional organizations in the field of plastic surgery: the ABPS and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). While both serve important roles in the plastic surgery landscape, they are not related and have different responsibilities.
