Plastic Surgery Technologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of aesthetic transformation, the focus on Plastic Surgery Technologists has never been stronger.

Medical advancements proceed, and with each stride, the demand for skilled individuals who can aid, develop, and ensure the safety of our surgical procedures grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Plastic Surgery Technologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of plastic surgery technology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Plastic Surgery Technologist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Plastic Surgery Technologist Duties and Responsibilities

Plastic Surgery Technologists support surgeons during plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures.

They are responsible for prepping the operating room, assisting during the surgery, and providing postoperative care to patients.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparing the operating room for surgery, including setting up surgical instruments and equipment
• Maintaining sterile conditions in the operating room at all times
• Assisting the surgeon during the procedure by handing them instruments and other supplies
• Preparing and applying dressings to surgical sites
• Monitoring the patient’s condition and vital signs during surgery
• Documenting surgery procedures and patient’s medical information accurately
• Cleaning and sterilizing surgical instruments after surgery
• Helping to move patients to recovery rooms and monitoring their condition post-surgery
• Ordering supplies and maintaining inventory of surgical instruments and equipment

 

Plastic Surgery Technologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented, skilled Plastic Surgery Technologist to join our medical team.

The Plastic Surgery Technologist will be responsible for preparing and assisting in plastic surgery procedures, ensuring that the operation room is sterile and fully equipped, and providing patient care during preoperative and postoperative phases.

Candidates should possess a deep knowledge of surgical instruments, an understanding of the plastic surgery procedures, and be able to adhere to safety and cleanliness protocols.

Ultimately, the role of the Plastic Surgery Technologist is to assist in surgical operations and ensure patient comfort and safety during surgical procedures.

 

Responsibilities

• Preparation of operation rooms prior to surgeries
• Ensuring surgical instruments are sterilized and available when needed
• Assisting in surgical procedures by handing instruments to surgeons
• Preparing patients for surgery by washing and disinfecting incision sites
• Providing postoperative patient care, such as wound dressing
• Maintaining accurate patient and surgical records
• Assisting in patient recovery and hospital discharge processes
• Adhering to safety and infection control protocols
• Staying updated on advancements in the field of plastic surgery

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Plastic Surgery Technologist or similar role
• Knowledge of surgical procedures and patient care
• Understanding of aseptic and sterilization techniques
• Ability to handle surgical instruments safely and efficiently
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Resilience and the ability to work under pressure
• Associate degree or diploma in Surgical Technology or a related field

 

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Plastic Surgery Technologist
• Work Environment: Hospital or private clinic setting. Shift work may be required, including weekends and evenings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Plastic Surgeon or Surgical Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Plastic Surgery Technologist Do?

Plastic Surgery Technologists, also known as surgical technologists or surgical technicians, play a vital role in the field of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.

They assist plastic surgeons before, during, and after the surgical procedures.

This often involves preparing the operating room, sterilizing and arranging the surgical instruments, and ensuring the proper working of surgical equipment.

Before surgery, they assist in patient preparation by cleaning, shaving, and disinfecting the incision sites.

During surgery, they may be tasked with passing the necessary instruments to the surgeon, holding retractors, or cutting sutures.

In addition, Plastic Surgery Technologists often assist in the application of dressings and may help in transporting the patient to the recovery room post-surgery.

They are also responsible for maintaining the sterile field in the operating room, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the patient.

Moreover, they can provide pre and post-operative care instructions to patients and can assist in the follow-up procedures.

Their role is critical to the success of any plastic surgical procedure, providing invaluable assistance to plastic surgeons, and ensuring a high standard of patient care.

 

Plastic Surgery Technologist Qualifications and Skills

A Plastic Surgery Technologist must possess a set of distinctive skills and qualifications to perform their duties effectively, these include:

• Proficiency in operating and maintaining medical equipment related to plastic surgery, such as lasers, microscopes, and surgical instruments.
• Strong knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and plastic surgery techniques.
• Exceptional hand-eye coordination and dexterity to assist in delicate and intricate surgical procedures.
• High attention to detail to ensure all surgical tools are properly sterilized and available when needed, and that all safety procedures are strictly followed.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in a high-stress environment.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to quickly respond to surgical complications or emergencies.
• Understanding of patient care standards and practices, including patient confidentiality and rights.
• Ability to stay updated with the latest advancements in plastic surgery and continuously improve technical skills and knowledge.
• Physical stamina to stand or sit for long periods during surgeries.

 

Plastic Surgery Technologist Experience Requirements

Plastic Surgery Technologists often begin their career by completing an accredited surgical technology program, which typically lasts from 12 to 24 months.

This program provides both theoretical instruction and hands-on clinical experience in the field of surgical technology, with a specific focus on plastic surgery.

To enter these programs, prospective technologists are usually required to have some healthcare experience.

This could be gained through prior work in a healthcare setting, volunteering, or related coursework.

Once the program is complete, certification is usually the next step.

While not always required, many employers prefer to hire certified Plastic Surgery Technologists.

Achieving certification typically requires passing an exam and maintaining it requires ongoing education and experience.

Beyond education and certification, Plastic Surgery Technologists also need to gain practical experience in the field.

This is often achieved through internships or entry-level positions within surgical departments, where they can gain experience in a variety of surgical procedures, with a focus on plastic surgery.

More experienced Plastic Surgery Technologists may have upwards of 5 years of experience.

These professionals may have specialized knowledge and skills in certain types of plastic surgery procedures.

With this level of experience, they may be eligible for supervisory or managerial roles within surgical departments.

In addition to hands-on experience, continuous learning is crucial for Plastic Surgery Technologists.

Due to the rapidly evolving nature of the field, these professionals must be committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements and techniques in plastic surgery.

 

Plastic Surgery Technologist Education and Training Requirements

Individuals who aspire to become a Plastic Surgery Technologist need to have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.

The first step involves completing a surgical technologist program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

These programs usually take between 12 to 24 months and cover coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, sterilization techniques, and surgical procedures.

Graduates will then need to obtain certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).

Certification requires successful completion of an examination, and ongoing education or professional practice to maintain certification.

In addition, plastic surgery technologists are encouraged to pursue specialized training in plastic surgery through workshops, seminars, or advanced educational programs.

This allows them to improve their skills and knowledge specific to plastic surgery procedures and patient care.

Furthermore, as this is a hands-on role, good manual dexterity, stamina, and interpersonal skills are also essential.

A commitment to ongoing learning and staying updated with the latest advancements in the field is important, as this role may involve using new technology and techniques.

 

Plastic Surgery Technologist Salary Expectations

A Plastic Surgery Technologist, also known as a Surgical Technologist specializing in plastic surgery, earns an average salary of $48,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, education, geographic location, and the specific healthcare facility.

 

Plastic Surgery Technologist Job Description FAQs

What are the essential skills a Plastic Surgery Technologist needs?

A Plastic Surgery Technologist should possess strong technical skills to operate medical equipment and assist in surgical procedures.

They need excellent attention to detail to ensure safety and precision during operations.

Communication skills are also essential to coordinate with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

They should also have a firm understanding of medical terminology and aseptic techniques.

 

Do Plastic Surgery Technologists need a specific degree or certification?

Yes, Plastic Surgery Technologists typically need to complete a Surgical Technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

After completion, they need to pass a certification exam to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

Some employers may also require experience in a surgical setting, specifically in plastic surgery.

 

What should you look for in a Plastic Surgery Technologist’s resume?

First and foremost, verify if the candidate has the necessary education and certification.

Look for experience in surgical procedures, specifically in plastic surgery.

Skills such as sterile techniques, patient preparation, and surgical equipment handling should be listed.

Any additional certifications or training in relevant areas like CPR or advanced cardiovascular life support can also be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Plastic Surgery Technologist?

A good Plastic Surgery Technologist should be detail-oriented, as precision is crucial in surgical procedures.

They need to be able to work well under pressure, as surgical situations can sometimes be stressful.

Good manual dexterity is also necessary for handling surgical instruments.

Above all, they should have a strong commitment to patient care and safety.

 

What are the daily duties of a Plastic Surgery Technologist?

A Plastic Surgery Technologist’s daily duties include preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons during procedures.

They may also prepare patients for surgery, position them on the operating table, and monitor their vital signs.

After surgery, they may help transfer patients to recovery and clean and restock the operating room for the next procedure.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve offered an exclusive glimpse into the intricate world of a plastic surgery technologist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about performing procedures.

It’s about crafting physical transformations, one precise incision at a time.

Armed with our reliable plastic surgery technologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously-crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every incision contributes to the bigger transformation.

Let’s shape the future. Together.