Duties of A Surgeon
A surgeon is a highly skilled clinician who performs essential procedures to treat cancer, correct malformations, and restore function. While on duty, surgeons are busy balancing patient care, surgical procedures, and ongoing professional responsibilities. Expert:
- Care for patients by performing surgical procedures when needed
- Thoroughly evaluate the patient’s condition and determine whether to lead a procedure or participate as part of a team
- Explain the course of medical treatment to the patient in plain language
- See patients again after the treatment
- Remove cancerous tissue in various parts of the body
- Perform procedures to repair or reconstruct bones and restore strength when needed
- Remove damaged organs or tissue and replace them with healthy alternatives when necessary
- Prevent or address potential cancer recurrence
- Clear obstructions and ensure airway and circulatory health, including areas near the heart and lungs
- Perform plastic or reconstructive procedures to restore appearance or function as needed
Requirements To Become A Surgeon
Becoming a surgeon requires a specific set of skills and credentials. Each training path has requirements to practice. Expert:
- A high school diploma with strong marks in science subjects
- A bachelor’s degree in a science-related field to enter medical school
- Take the MCAT and achieve a competitive score
- Gain admission to medical school
- Complete medical school successfully
- Complete residency and develop surgical skills
- Pass all three USMLE steps for licensing
- Maintain licensure and renew as required
- Engage in research to advance the field
Steps To Become A Surgeon
If you’re committed to pursuing a highly professional career as a surgeon in the USA, here’s a practical path you can follow. For more guidance on the medical education journey, see our article on Medical School: How to Get in, What to Expect, and What to Do After.
Step 1: Basic Education.
Finish high school with strong science grades and earn a Bachelor’s degree in science, natural sciences, physiology, or life sciences. Aim for a degree with clinically relevant coursework to prepare for the MCAT. For a broader overview of medical school expectations, you can read What to Expect When Starting Medical School.
Step 2: Prepare for MCAT
After completing a bachelor’s degree, plan for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The MCAT is offered several times a year, and you should strive for a strong score to improve your chances of admission to top clinical programs. For additional context on the medical school journey, Medical School: How to Get in, What to Expect, and What to Do After can be a helpful resource.
Step 3: Enroll in Medical School and Graduate
Once MCAT results meet requirements, enroll in medical school. The MD program typically lasts four years, with a balance of preclinical study and clinical rotations. Physician training requires four years of study, with significant patient interaction during clinical years.
Step 4: Complete the Residency Program and Obtain a License Through USMLE
After graduating from medical school, a person enters a residency program lasting several years depending on the chosen specialty. Upon completing residency, you must pass all three USMLE steps to obtain medical licensure. Licensure guidelines may require renewals or ongoing education to maintain a specialty certification in the USA.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Surgeon?
Typically, the path spans about 12-15 years: four years for an undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, and three to seven years of residency, followed by passing the USMLE exams. In total, many aspiring surgeons note a long but rewarding journey that culminates in practice as a board-certified surgeon.
How Much Does A Surgeon Usually Earn?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgeons earn a high six-figure salary, with substantial variation by specialty and geographic location. Salaries tend to be higher in many urban centers and specialized practices. If you’re exploring related healthcare careers, you might also consider paths like nursing or medical assisting—learn more in How To Become A Nurse or How To Become A Medical Assistant.
