What is the difference between a board-certified plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon?
What is the difference between a board-certified plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon?
“Real” board-certified plastic surgeons have been credentialed by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) certifies surgeons exclusively in cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgeons may not have board certification to call themselves that.
What does board-certified mean for plastic surgeons?
To earn board certification, the surgeon must complete their cosmetic surgery residency and pass both a written and oral exam testing their procedural knowledge. The goal of board certification is producing plastic surgeons that are safe, ethical, and have extensive knowledge of plastic surgery in its entirety.