Facial Surgery Training

A Facial Plastic Surgeon differs slightly from a full-body plastic surgeon in that we focus exclusively and specifically on both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the face, head and neck. Each face is unique, has wide variations in individual expression, and is one of the most complex and important characteristics that creates the individual. As such, the specialty of Facial Plastic Surgery was developed to master these complexities.

To become a Facial Plastic Surgeon one must have fellowship training after completing residency. The process is long and starts by attending medical school and completing a residency in either ENT/Head and Neck Surgery or a fellowship in general Plastic Surgery. After completing residency training, one must apply for the competitive fellowship matching process. Those fortunate enough to be selected become fellows. In summary:

• Medical School- 4 years
• Residency- ENT/Head and Neck Surgery takes 5 years
• Fellowship- 1-2 years

Over 10 years of training is required to master the complexities of nasal function and cosmetics, and the complexities of facial function and appearance.

Full-body Plastic Surgeons also require a long training process. Again, it starts with 4 years of medical school followed by a 5 year general surgery residency. Once complete, a Plastic Surgeon participates in a 2 year plastics fellowship.

• Medical School- 4 years
• Residency- 5 years in General Surgery
• Plastic Surgery Fellowship- 2-3 years

There is an excellent discussion about the father, Dr. Jacques Joseph, of modern Facial Plastic Surgery on the AAFPRS website. Dr. Joseph’s, who lived during the late 1800′s and early 1900′s, work was follow by other great leaders and pioneers including: John Orlando Roe, John J.Conley, Maurice Cottle, Samual Foman and Irving Goldman. Please feel free to click on the link above to learn more of the honorable and storied history of Facial Plastic Surgery and the AAFPRS.