How to Become a General Surgeon (Healing Hands Unleashed)
If you’ve ever envisioned yourself performing life-saving surgeries or contemplated what it takes to become a general surgeon, you’re at the right spot.
In this guide, we will elucidate the EXACT steps required to initiate your career as a general surgeon. We will delve into:
- The skills you need.
- The necessary education and training.
- How to secure a position as a general surgeon.
So, whether you’re a medical novice or a seasoned professional aiming to specialize, stick around.
We’re about to unravel the roadmap to becoming a general surgeon.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a General Surgeon
Step 1: Acquire a Strong Educational Foundation in Science
To pursue a career as a general surgeon, it’s essential to have a robust foundation in science.
Starting from high school, you should focus on courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
Getting a strong foundation in these subjects will prepare you for the rigors of pre-medical studies in college.
In college, you should aim to major in a field like biology, biochemistry, or a similar area of study that focuses heavily on life sciences.
While it’s not a requirement to major in a science-related field to get into medical school, it could be beneficial.
These courses often cover pre-requisites required for medical school admission.
Along with a strong scientific knowledge, it’s also essential to develop excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
These can be crucial during your medical studies and eventual surgical career.
Remember, maintaining a high GPA is significant, as medical schools have competitive entry requirements.
Extracurricular activities, such as volunteering at a local hospital or clinic, can also be a valuable way to gain hands-on experience in the medical field and demonstrate your commitment to the healthcare profession.
Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
To pursue a career as a General Surgeon, the first step after high school is to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree.
Although there isn’t a specific degree for aspiring surgeons, it is generally recommended that students major in a science-related field.
Some of the common degrees include Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Physics.
During your undergraduate years, focus on maintaining a high GPA, as admission to medical school is extremely competitive.
The Bachelor’s program is generally four years long and includes prerequisite courses that are required for medical school admission.
These prerequisites usually include General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and English.
Some students also take advanced courses in Anatomy, Physiology, or Microbiology to further prepare for medical school.
It’s also important to gain some practical experience during your undergraduate studies.
This could be through volunteering at a local hospital, participating in research projects, or shadowing a practicing surgeon.
These experiences can provide valuable exposure to the medical field and can strengthen your application to medical school.
In addition, you will need to pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), which is a standardized exam that medical schools in the U.S. use to assess applicants.
The MCAT tests knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine.
Therefore, it’s crucial to thoroughly prepare for this exam.
Remember that becoming a General Surgeon is a long journey, so it’s important to stay committed and motivated throughout your undergraduate years.
Step 3: Pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
The Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT, is a standardized, multiple-choice examination that is required for admission to medical school in the United States and Canada.
This test assesses problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine.
To prepare for the MCAT, you should review your coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, social sciences, and humanities, as the test covers all of these subjects.
Many students also find it beneficial to use MCAT preparation books and courses, which can provide targeted study strategies and practice tests.
Scoring well on the MCAT is crucial as it is one of the key factors medical schools consider during their admission process.
Therefore, dedicate enough time and resources to ensure you achieve a competitive score.
After passing the MCAT, the next steps would typically include completing a Medical Degree, residency in General Surgery and getting certified by the American Board of Surgery.
Remember, the path to becoming a general surgeon is demanding and requires commitment and dedication.
Step 4: Earn a Medical Degree (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)
Earning a Medical Degree (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) is the next crucial step toward becoming a general surgeon.
This involves enrolling in medical school, which typically takes four years to complete.
The first two years are generally spent in classrooms and labs studying anatomy, biochemistry, medical ethics, and specialized areas like pharmacology and pathology.
During the last two years, students are given the opportunity to work with patients under the supervision of experienced doctors in hospitals and clinics, rotating through specialties such as internal medicine, family practice, gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery.
At this stage, students can choose to focus more on surgery to gain exposure and practical experience.
This hands-on experience is invaluable, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
Upon completion of medical school, you will have to pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) for MD students or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA) for DO students, to become a licensed physician before embarking on a residency program in general surgery.
The MD or DO degree not only signifies your ability to practice medicine but also sets the foundation for your surgical career.
From here, you will be ready to move onto a surgical residency program, a crucial step towards becoming a general surgeon.
Step 5: Complete a General Surgery Residency Program
After graduating from medical school, aspiring General Surgeons must complete a general surgery residency program.
This typically lasts about five years and offers intensive training in all aspects of surgery under the supervision of experienced surgeons.
During the residency, you will rotate through different surgical specialties, such as cardiothoracic, vascular, pediatric, trauma, and critical care surgery.
You’ll also get hands-on experience in preoperative, operative, and postoperative care, as well as learn about patient management and surgical complications.
This training not only covers the technical aspects of surgery but also interpersonal skills, medical ethics, and professionalism.
You’ll get the opportunity to work as part of a surgical team, interact with patients, and manage post-surgical recovery and follow-up.
In your last years of residency, you may have the opportunity to choose elective rotations based on your interests or career goals.
These can further refine your surgical skills and knowledge in specific areas of general surgery.
Keep in mind that a general surgery residency is highly competitive and demanding, with long work hours and a rigorous learning schedule.
However, it is a crucial step in becoming a skilled and competent general surgeon.
Upon completion of the residency, you will need to pass the board certification exam from the American Board of Surgery to practice independently as a general surgeon.
Step 6: Gain Experience through Rotations
After completing your medical school, the next crucial step in becoming a General Surgeon is to gain practical experience through rotations.
These rotations are a part of your residency program and typically last for five years.
During your residency, you will be exposed to various surgical subspecialties, such as orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, cardiac surgery, and trauma surgery, among others.
This comprehensive exposure allows you to gain a broad base of surgical knowledge and skills.
Besides, you will also have the opportunity to engage in general surgical procedures, which forms a significant part of your training as a General Surgeon.
This period of hands-on training will allow you to learn and practice under the direct supervision of experienced surgeons.
It provides the opportunity to hone your skills, learn to make quick life-saving decisions, and understand the nuances of patient care.
In addition to your rotations, you may also have the opportunity to conduct research or teach, which can further enhance your surgical knowledge and skills.
Remember that your performance in these rotations can significantly influence your future job prospects.
Therefore, it is essential to be diligent, disciplined, and committed throughout your residency.
Step 7: Choose a Subspecialty (Optional)
As you progress in your career as a general surgeon, you might want to consider choosing a subspecialty.
This decision typically comes after a few years of practice, once you have developed a solid foundation of surgical skills and have a clearer understanding of the areas in surgery that most interest you.
Subspecialties could range from Pediatric Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Colorectal Surgery, Trauma Surgery, to Plastic Surgery, among many others.
Choosing to subspecialize allows you to focus on a particular area of interest, enhance your skills further and become an expert in that specific field.
This could provide more opportunities for career advancement and potential for higher income.
Each subspecialty will require additional training and possibly fellowships, which may range from one to several years.
It’s important to note that choosing a subspecialty is not mandatory to have a successful career as a general surgeon.
Many general surgeons continue to enjoy diverse and fulfilling careers without choosing a subspecialty.
The decision to subspecialize should be based on your personal interest, career goals, and the satisfaction you get from your work.
Step 8: Obtain Licensure to Practice Medicine
After you complete your residency training, you must obtain a license to practice medicine in the state where you plan to work as a general surgeon.
Each state has its own licensing board and requirements.
Generally, you need to pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) to be licensed.
These exams test your knowledge and understanding of concepts related to health, disease, modes of therapy, and patient care.
Before taking the licensure exam, you must submit an application to the relevant state medical board, including transcripts and evidence of degree completion.
The licensure process also includes a background check and may require a personal interview.
Once you are licensed, you must maintain your license through continuing education and periodic re-examinations.
It is essential to remember that a medical license is a legal necessity for practicing medicine, and practicing without a license can lead to serious consequences.
You may also choose to become board certified in general surgery by the American Board of Surgery.
This is an additional step beyond licensure that demonstrates your proficiency in general surgery and commitment to ongoing learning.
The certification process includes passing a written and oral exam and meeting specific training and experience requirements.
Step 9: Become Board Certified in General Surgery
After completing your residency, the next step to becoming a General Surgeon is to become board certified.
Certification is provided by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) and it’s an essential credential that demonstrates your competence to perform general surgical procedures.
To become certified, you must first meet the ABS’s requirements which include having a valid and unrestricted medical license, completion of the required residency training, and the ability to provide documentation of your experiences and capabilities.
Next, you’ll need to pass a written exam known as the Qualifying Exam, which tests your knowledge of surgical principles and the specific clinical sciences related to surgery.
After passing the written exam, you are then eligible to take the Certifying Exam which is an oral test that assesses your ability to apply your knowledge in clinical scenarios.
Becoming board certified not only validates your surgical skills and knowledge, but it also may increase your job prospects as many employers prefer or require their surgeons to be board certified.
Keep in mind that certification is not a one-time event.
Surgeons must maintain their certification through continuous learning and professional development, as required by the ABS.
This step is crucial to your career as a General Surgeon as it sets the standard for your surgical practice and showcases your commitment to maintaining the highest level of surgical care.
Step 10: Continue Education and Training
As a general surgeon, your education does not stop after you have obtained your Medical Degree and have completed your residency.
To stay updated with the latest surgical techniques, technology, and medical findings, you must continue your education and training throughout your career.
This could involve attending medical conferences, enrolling in advanced surgical courses, or reading relevant research papers and medical journals.
Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits are usually required for maintaining your medical licensure and board certification.
These can be earned through a variety of learning activities that help to maintain, develop, or increase your knowledge, skills, and professional performance.
Furthermore, consider specializing in a specific area of surgery, like cardiovascular or neurological surgery.
This will involve additional years of fellowship training where you will gain intensive, specialized experience and skills.
Staying current in your field not only helps you provide the best care to your patients but also opens up opportunities for career advancement, such as moving into leadership roles, teaching, or medical research.
Remember that being a successful general surgeon involves lifelong learning and dedication to the craft.
Step 11: Secure a Position as a General Surgeon
After completing your residency and fellowship training, the next step is to secure a position as a General Surgeon.
Many General Surgeons work in hospitals, but you can also find employment in specialty clinics, private practice, academic medical centers or in the military.
The choice depends on your personal interests and career goals.
As you prepare to apply for jobs, make sure your CV is updated to reflect your education and training accomplishments.
You should also be prepared to provide references who can vouch for your surgical abilities and your professionalism.
Networking can also be a powerful tool to secure a position.
Attend medical conferences, join professional surgeon associations, and connect with your medical school alumni.
Once you receive a job offer, you may need to negotiate your contract.
This can include salary, hours, on-call duties, and other aspects of the job.
It may be beneficial to seek legal advice to ensure you understand the terms of your contract before you sign.
Lastly, you will need to obtain a state medical license to practice surgery in the location where you plan to work.
Each state has different requirements, so it’s important to research this ahead of time.
Remember, your education doesn’t stop once you secure a position.
As a General Surgeon, you’ll need to keep up with the latest medical research and surgical techniques throughout your career.
Step 12: Maintain Certification and Licensure
In the world of medical practice, staying updated with the latest medical advances and practices is crucial.
Therefore, as a general surgeon, it’s essential to maintain your certification and licensure.
This will not only ensure your legal eligibility to practice but also enhance your credibility among patients and peers.
Board certification is usually valid for ten years.
After that, you need to apply for recertification.
This involves continuous learning and sometimes taking a recertification exam.
Make sure to check with the American Board of Surgery or your relevant local surgical board for specific recertification requirements.
Regarding licensure, it’s important to renew your medical license regularly, as per your state’s regulations.
Each state has different renewal periods and requirements, which often include continuing medical education (CME) credits.
Stay proactive in pursuing these credits by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences that not only provide CME credits but also keep you updated with the latest surgical techniques, procedures, and research.
Furthermore, get involved with professional organizations and societies dedicated to surgery.
These associations can provide resources for continuing education, networking, and staying informed about the latest advancements and ethical considerations in the field.
Remember, keeping your certification and licensure current is not only about fulfilling obligations but is a testament to your commitment to providing the highest standard of care.
Step 13: Join Professional Organizations
Becoming a member of professional organizations can greatly benefit your career as a general surgeon.
These organizations can provide you with networking opportunities, access to the latest research and developments in the field, and opportunities for continued learning and development.
There are numerous professional organizations for surgeons, such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), and the American Society of General Surgeons (ASGS).
Joining one or more of these organizations not only gives you access to resources and information, but also demonstrates your commitment to the field.
It shows that you are engaged in your profession and are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of care in your practice.
Most of these organizations also offer resources for continuous professional development, such as conferences, workshops, and online learning opportunities.
These can help you to stay updated on the latest surgical techniques and technologies, medical research, and healthcare policies.
Networking is another significant benefit of joining professional organizations.
Networking events, both in-person and online, can connect you with other surgeons, healthcare professionals, and potential employers.
These connections can open up new opportunities for collaboration, career advancement, and even job offers.
In addition, being part of a professional organization can give you a sense of community and support.
You can share experiences, advice, and challenges with peers who understand and can relate to your professional journey.
Step 14: Continue Learning and Stay Updated on Surgical Techniques
As a general surgeon, it’s imperative to stay up-to-date with the latest surgical techniques and medical knowledge.
Medicine is a field that continually evolves, with new research, technologies, and procedures emerging regularly.
As such, continuous learning should be an integral part of your career.
There are numerous ways to continue your education and stay updated.
You can attend seminars, medical conferences, or workshops that focus on new surgical techniques or advancements in the field of general surgery.
Many of these events are often sponsored by medical organizations or universities and offer the opportunity to network with other professionals in your field.
You can also engage in self-study, reading medical journals or books to keep abreast of the latest research and developments in surgery.
Some surgeons choose to participate in online courses or webinars, which can offer flexibility in learning at their own pace.
Furthermore, consider joining professional organizations like the American College of Surgeons, which offer resources, seminars, and continuing medical education (CME) courses.
Some surgeons also choose to pursue additional certifications in specialized areas of surgery to broaden their skill set and enhance their practice.
Remember that continuing education not only expands your knowledge and skills but also ensures you provide the most current and effective care for your patients.
Staying abreast of the latest advancements is not only beneficial for your professional growth but is also an ethical responsibility towards your patients and the medical community.
Step 15: Build a Reputation and Network
Building a strong professional reputation and networking are crucial steps in your career as a General Surgeon.
This step usually begins during your residency and fellowship training but continues throughout your career.
Your reputation is built through the quality of your work, your professionalism, your ability to communicate effectively with patients and other medical staff, and your dedication to continuous learning and improvement.
This means always staying abreast of the latest surgical techniques, maintaining an excellent record in patient safety and care, and being respectful and responsive to patients’ needs.
Networking in the field of surgery involves making connections with other healthcare professionals, which can be beneficial in many ways.
It can lead to referrals, opportunities for collaborations on research, sharing of knowledge and experience, and job opportunities.
Attend medical conferences, join professional associations such as the American College of Surgeons, and participate actively in these communities.
Additionally, networking with peers can also involve contributing to the field’s body of knowledge.
This could be through research, speaking at conferences, or publishing articles in reputable medical journals.
Such activities not only help to establish your expertise, but they also make you a visible and respected figure in the field.
Remember, your reputation and network can open doors for you in the future, whether it’s for a higher position at a hospital, a teaching position at a medical school, or even starting your own private practice.
Building a reputation and networking is not an overnight process, but a continuous one that requires commitment and effort.
However, the payoff in terms of career advancement and personal satisfaction can be substantial.
General Surgeon Roles and Responsibilities
General Surgeons are skilled in the diagnosis, preoperative, operative, and postoperative management of patient care.
They perform surgical procedures to treat conditions involving the endocrine system, gastrointestinal tract, liver, colon, and other major parts of the human body.
They also have a critical role in emergency rooms where they may be called upon to handle cases involving trauma.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Diagnosis
- Evaluate patients’ medical histories to determine their physical conditions and diseases.
- Conduct diagnostic tests and procedures to identify the patient’s illness or condition.
- Interpret test results to make accurate diagnosis.
Surgical Procedures
- Perform various types of surgeries based on their area of specialization.
- Use sterile surgical techniques to ensure patient safety and prevent complications.
Preoperative and Postoperative Care
- Provide preoperative and postoperative care to patients.
- Monitor and manage patients’ recovery after surgery.
Emergency Care
- Attend to emergency cases and perform emergency surgeries.
- Work in collaboration with other medical staff in the emergency room to ensure effective patient care.
Medical Records
- Maintain accurate and detailed medical records of all patients.
- Document patients’ progress, treatment plans, surgeries performed, and outcomes.
Patient Consultation
- Provide consultation to patients and explain surgical procedures, risks, and benefits.
- Discuss with patients about preoperative and postoperative care.
Collaboration
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals such as anesthesiologists, surgical assistants, nurses, and radiologists.
Ethics and Legal Compliance
- Adhere to the ethical standards and guidelines of the medical profession.
- Comply with all relevant laws and regulations relating to medical practice and patient confidentiality.
Research
- Stay updated with the latest research, treatments, and surgical techniques.
Continuing Education
- Participate in conferences, workshops, and training programs to keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in general surgery.
Communication
- Communicate effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
What Does a General Surgeon Do?
General Surgeons are highly skilled medical professionals who perform a wide range of surgical procedures in various areas of the body.
They often work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices.
They are responsible for diagnosing patients with diseases or injuries that require surgery as a part of treatment.
The surgical procedures they undertake may involve the abdomen, skin, breast, soft tissues, or endocrine system, among others.
General Surgeons typically work alongside other medical professionals such as anesthesiologists, surgical nurses, and sometimes other specialist surgeons in order to perform surgeries safely and effectively.
Pre-operative duties of General Surgeons include explaining the surgical process to patients, obtaining patient consent, and planning the surgical procedure.
During the surgery, they are responsible for the patient’s life and health, ensuring the surgery is successfully conducted while minimizing risks or complications.
Post-operative duties involve ensuring the patient’s recovery, which may include coordinating with other healthcare providers, monitoring patients’ progress, and conducting follow-up appointments.
In addition to their surgical duties, they may also conduct research, teach surgical techniques to medical students and residents, or consult on complex medical cases.
Essential General Surgeon Skills
- Surgical Expertise: A general surgeon must possess the technical skills to perform a wide variety of surgical procedures with precision and care.
- Diagnosis: They must be proficient at interpreting a patient’s symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic test results to accurately identify surgical issues.
- Critical Thinking: Surgeons must have the ability to make quick and effective decisions during surgical procedures, especially in emergencies. Their decisions can significantly affect a patient’s health and life.
- Stamina: General surgeons often have to stand for long periods during surgery. They must also be prepared to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and in emergencies.
- Hand-eye Coordination: Precise hand movements are crucial in surgery. Surgeons must have excellent hand-eye coordination to perform delicate operations and avoid damaging surrounding tissues.
- Communication: They must be able to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and the rest of the medical team. This includes explaining complex medical information clearly and empathetically.
- Leadership: In the operating room, the surgeon acts as a leader. They should be able to direct and manage the surgical team efficiently and work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals.
- Patient Care: Apart from surgical procedures, a general surgeon should also be knowledgeable about pre and post-operative care, including wound care, infection control, and pain management.
- Medical Knowledge: Surgeons must stay updated with the latest medical research, surgical procedures, and technology advancements to provide the best care possible.
- Organizational Skills: They need to efficiently manage their time and prioritize tasks, as they often juggle multiple patients and surgeries.
- Stress Management: Surgery can be a high-pressure environment. Surgeons must be able to manage stress effectively to maintain focus and provide the best care.
- Attention to Detail: Surgery requires a meticulous approach. A minor oversight can lead to significant complications. Surgeons must therefore be vigilant and detail-oriented.
- Compassion: Despite the technical nature of the role, surgeons must show empathy and understanding towards their patients, who are often in distress.
- Medical Ethics: Surgeons must adhere to high ethical standards, respecting patient autonomy, confidentiality, and informed consent.
- Lifelong Learning: Medicine constantly evolves, and surgeons need to commit to ongoing learning to stay abreast of new surgical techniques and treatments.
General Surgeon Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Medical Student/Intern
The journey to becoming a General Surgeon begins in medical school, followed by an internship.
Here, you’re exposed to various medical disciplines and gain a comprehensive understanding of human health and diseases.
You should focus on:
- Knowledge Acquisition: Absorb all the information you can about anatomy, physiology, and medical procedures.
- Skills Development: Learn and practice basic medical procedures and patient care under the supervision of experienced doctors.
- Communication: Develop strong communication skills to interact effectively with patients and medical teams.
The Ascent: Surgical Resident
Post-internship, you’d enter a surgical residency program.
You’re now exposed to a wide range of surgical procedures and acquire hands-on experience.
To thrive in this stage, you should:
- Specialized Learning: Deepen your knowledge of surgical procedures and techniques.
- Hands-On Experience: Make the most of the opportunity to assist and perform surgeries under supervision.
- Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with a team of medical professionals to ensure optimal patient care.
Reaching New Heights: Junior Surgeon
As a Junior Surgeon, you’d perform surgeries independently, make critical decisions, and handle emergencies.
Here’s how to excel in this role:
- Continued Learning: Keep yourself updated with the latest developments in surgical procedures and techniques.
- Decision Making: Make accurate diagnoses and devise appropriate surgical plans for patients.
- Responsibility: Handle the pressure and responsibility that comes with life-altering surgeries.
Beyond the Horizon: Senior Surgeon and Surgical Specialist
As a Senior Surgeon or Surgical Specialist, you’d be recognized as an expert.
You’d also mentor junior surgeons and residents, and maybe lead a team.
To succeed, focus on:
- Leadership: Provide guidance and support to junior surgeons and residents.
- Expertise: Continue to hone your skills and specialize in one or more types of surgeries.
- Research: Contribute to medical research and advancements in surgical techniques.
Pinnacle of Success: Chief Surgeon or Surgeon General
At the pinnacle, you could become a Chief Surgeon or Surgeon General, responsible for overseeing all surgical procedures and policies in a hospital or even at a national level.
You would be making strategic decisions that impact patient care and surgical services.
General Surgeon Salary
Entry-Level General Surgeon
- Median Salary: $255,000 – $300,000 per year
- Entry-level surgeons are those who have recently completed their residency and gained their license to practice. They typically have 0-2 years of experience in the field.
Mid-Level General Surgeon
- Median Salary: $300,000 – $400,000 per year
- Mid-level surgeons have 3-9 years of experience. They have more autonomy in their role and may lead surgical teams during procedures.
Senior General Surgeon
- Median Salary: $400,000 – $500,000 per year
- Senior surgeons have 10+ years of experience. They typically take on high-risk cases and may hold leadership positions within a hospital or clinic.
Chief of Surgery
- Median Salary: $410,000 – $600,000+ per year
- The Chief of Surgery has extensive experience and is responsible for overseeing the surgical department, creating surgical policies, and ensuring the quality of care in surgical procedures.
Surgical Director
- Median Salary: $500,000 – $700,000+ per year
- Surgical Directors have many years of experience and are responsible for managing surgical departments or divisions. They may also be involved in setting surgical strategies and policies for a hospital or healthcare organization.
General Surgeon Work Environment
General surgeons primarily work in hospitals where they perform a variety of surgeries.
They can also work in private practices, outpatient care centers, and teaching hospitals.
The work schedule of a general surgeon is typically very demanding with long and irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and being on call for emergencies.
They often perform surgeries that are scheduled in advance, as well as emergency surgeries.
Their work environment is usually high-stress due to the nature of their job and the need for precision and focus during procedures.
The work can also be physically demanding due to standing for long periods of time during surgery.
After gaining enough experience and developing their skills, a general surgeon may choose to specialize in a specific area of surgery or even open their own private practice.
FAQs About Becoming a General Surgeon
What is needed to become a general surgeon?
To become a general surgeon, you need to complete a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a science-related field, and then enroll in medical school which typically lasts four years.
After medical school, you’ll complete a surgical residency, which can last between five to seven years.
The entire process from undergraduate to completion of residency can take upwards of 13 years.
Strong manual dexterity, problem-solving skills, stamina, and the ability to handle stress are essential traits for this role.
Furthermore, board certification by the American Board of Surgery is often required by employers.
How long does it take to become a general surgeon?
The timeline to become a general surgeon is extensive.
This includes four years of undergraduate studies, four years of medical school, and five to seven years of a general surgery residency program.
After this, some choose to do additional fellowship training in a sub-specialty.
In total, it can take anywhere from 13 to 15 years or more to become a fully qualified general surgeon.
Can I be a general surgeon without a medical degree?
No, becoming a general surgeon without a medical degree is not possible.
This is a highly specialized field that requires extensive education and training, including a Bachelor’s degree, medical school, and a residency in general surgery.
Furthermore, all practicing surgeons must be licensed by the state in which they practice and many are board certified.
Is being a general surgeon a stressful job?
Surgery can be a highly stressful profession due to its intense nature.
Surgeons often work long hours, are on-call for emergencies, and are responsible for the well-being of their patients during complex surgical procedures.
The work requires precision, quick decision-making, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations.
However, many surgeons find the job rewarding due to the ability to help patients and directly impact their health and wellbeing.
What are the prospects for general surgeons in the next decade?
The job outlook for general surgeons is positive.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% job growth for physicians and surgeons between 2019 and 2029.
As the population ages, demand for surgical procedures is expected to increase.
Additionally, advancements in medical technology will likely increase the need for skilled general surgeons.
Conclusion
There you have it.
The path to becoming a general surgeon may be steep, but it’s undeniably fulfilling.
Equipped with the appropriate knowledge, training, and perseverance, you’re well on your way to making a notable contribution to the medical field.
Remember, the journey may be tough, but the potential is endless. Your surgical expertise could save lives and significantly improve patients’ quality of life.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in medical studies. Connect with experienced surgeons. And most importantly, never stop honing your surgical skills.
Because the world is waiting for what you can achieve.
And if you’re seeking personalized advice on beginning or advancing your career in general surgery, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path.
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