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Plastic Surgeon

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Plastic surgeons enhance or reconstruct body parts. They require extensive training and precision to improve patients' lives through cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Average Salary

₹20,00,000

Growth

high

Satisfaction

high

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Educational Requirements

Educational Path to Becoming a Plastic Surgeon

To become a plastic surgeon in India, a rigorous and extensive educational journey is required. Here's a detailed breakdown:

  • MBBS Degree: The first step is to obtain a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. This typically takes 5.5 years, including a one-year internship.
  • Postgraduate Degree: After completing MBBS, you need to pursue a postgraduate degree in General Surgery (MS) or an equivalent qualification.
  • MCh in Plastic Surgery: The most direct route is to pursue a Master of Chirurgiae (MCh) in Plastic Surgery. This is a specialized three-year program.
  • DNB in Plastic Surgery: Alternatively, you can obtain a Diplomate of National Board (DNB) in Plastic Surgery, which is also a three-year program.
  • Residency: A residency program in plastic surgery is crucial for gaining hands-on experience and honing surgical skills. This typically lasts for several years.
  • Fellowship (Optional): Some surgeons opt for a fellowship in a specific area of plastic surgery, such as reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery, or pediatric plastic surgery.

Key Skills

  • Surgical Precision: Excellent surgical skills and meticulous attention to detail.
  • Artistic Ability: A strong aesthetic sense for cosmetic procedures.
  • Communication Skills: The ability to communicate effectively with patients and understand their needs.
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to handle complex cases.
  • Empathy: Compassion and empathy to support patients through their surgical journey.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges for Aspiring Plastic Surgeons in India

  • All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi: Renowned for its excellent faculty, research, and patient care.
  • Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh: Offers comprehensive training and research opportunities.
  • Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore: Known for its high academic standards and ethical medical practice.
  • Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), New Delhi: A prestigious institution with experienced faculty and extensive clinical exposure.
  • Seth G.S. Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai: Offers a wide range of surgical training programs.
  • Grant Medical College and Sir J.J. Group of Hospitals, Mumbai: One of the oldest medical colleges in India, with a strong focus on clinical training.
  • Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bangalore: A leading medical college in South India with excellent infrastructure.
  • Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad: Known for its experienced faculty and diverse patient population.
  • King George's Medical University, Lucknow: A historic institution with a strong alumni network.
  • Stanley Medical College, Chennai: Offers comprehensive medical education and training.
Fees

The cost of becoming a Plastic Surgeon in India involves expenses at various stages of education. Here’s an overview:

  • MBBS Fees:
    • Government Medical Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year.
    • Private Medical Colleges: ₹8,00,000 to ₹20,00,000 per year.
  • MS in General Surgery Fees:
    • Government Colleges: ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹5,00,000 to ₹15,00,000 per year.
  • MCh in Plastic Surgery Fees:
    • Government Institutes: ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 per year.
    • Private Institutes: ₹7,00,000 to ₹20,00,000 per year.
  • DNB Program Fees:
    • DNB program fees can vary widely, ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year, depending on the hospital and specialty.
Related Exams

To become a Plastic Surgeon in India, several key exams need to be cleared at different stages of your medical education. Here’s a breakdown:

  • NEET-UG: This is the primary entrance exam for MBBS admissions in India. A high score is essential to secure a seat in a reputable medical college.
  • NEET-PG: After completing MBBS, you must clear NEET-PG to gain admission to postgraduate programs like MS in General Surgery. Your rank determines your choice of specialty and college.
  • DNB CET: If you aim for a Diplomate of National Board (DNB) in General Surgery, you need to clear the DNB Centralized Entrance Test (DNB CET).
  • MCh Entrance Exams: To pursue MCh in Plastic Surgery, you'll need to appear for entrance exams conducted by various institutes offering the program. These exams often include a written test and an interview.
  • DNB in Plastic Surgery Exams: If you opt for DNB in Plastic Surgery, you'll need to pass the DNB exams conducted by the National Board of Examinations.
Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High earning potential and financial stability.
  2. Opportunity to improve patients' lives and self-esteem.
  3. Intellectual stimulation from complex surgical cases.
  4. Continuous learning and professional development.
  5. High level of job satisfaction from successful outcomes.
  6. Diverse range of procedures and patient demographics.
  7. Respect and recognition within the medical community.
  8. Ability to specialize in a specific area of interest.
  9. Opportunities for research and innovation.
  10. Flexible career options, including private practice.

Cons

  1. Long and demanding education and training period.
  2. High levels of stress and responsibility.
  3. Risk of complications and patient dissatisfaction.
  4. Emotionally challenging cases, such as trauma or cancer.
  5. Exposure to long hours and unpredictable schedules.
  6. High initial investment in education and equipment.
  7. Ethical dilemmas related to cosmetic procedures.
  8. Competition for patients and referrals.
  9. Risk of malpractice lawsuits.
  10. Need for continuous adaptation to new techniques.