The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

Choosing Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons

One of the most important decisions you can make when getting ready for Plastic Surgery is to choose an expert, highly credentialed plastic surgeon. In the United States, specialists are recognized as experts by completing a rigorous exam process, known as “Board Certification.” When choosing a plastic surgeon, Board Certification really matters.

In Florida, the gold standard for plastic surgery certification is The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)—the only board recognized by the State of Florida for certifying comprehensive plastic surgeons. While other medical doctors may call themselves “cosmetic surgeons,” this is not the same as a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Why Choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?

When you get on a commercial airplane, you expect your pilots to have extensive training in skillfully and safely piloting you to your destination. In the operating room you want a Board-Certified plastic surgeon – a specialist who has undergone extensive training in Plastic Surgery, rigorous evaluation, and ongoing professional development. Certification by the ABPS ensures that your surgeon meets the highest standards in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery.

Recognized by the State of Florida

The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only certifying board for plastic surgeons that is

  • Recognized by the Florida Board of Medicine
  • Accredited by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)

This distinction ensures that plastic surgeons certified by the ABPS have comprehensive, verified training and operate within the full scope of plastic surgery.

Visit the American Board of Plastic Surgery

What Does It Take to Become Board Certified?

To be certified by the ABPS, a surgeon must complete a lengthy training pathway, including:

  • 4 years of medical school
  • At least 6 years of surgical training, including full residency in plastic surgery or a plastic surgery fellowship after prior surgical training
  • Comprehensive oral and written examinations
  • Commitment to lifelong learning and continuing education

Board-Certified plastic surgeons are trained in the full spectrum of plastic surgery, including both reconstructive and aesthetic procedures, including surgeries of the face, breast, body, hands, and more. We’ve dedicated our professional lives to mastering this intricate mix of art, anatomy and complex surgical techniques.

Leaders in Florida, the Nation, and the World

Members of the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons (FSPS) are more than highly trained physicians—they are leaders in their field:

  • In Florida: FSPS members advocate for patient safety, ethical standards, and responsible regulation of plastic surgery across the state.
  • Nationally: FSPS members serve on committees and in leadership roles within the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society.
  • Internationally: Many are recognized worldwide as experts, educators, researchers, and innovators in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

How FSPS Surgeons Are Different

When you choose an FSPS member, you’re choosing:

  • A surgeon who is Board-Certified by the ABPS
  • A surgeon trained to perform both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery
  • A leader who upholds the highest safety and ethical standards
  • A physician committed to excellence and continuous improvement

Trust Your Body to a Certified Expert

Plastic surgery is a major decision. Choose a surgeon who has met the highest standards in training, skill, and ethics. Choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon. Choose a member of the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Find a member near you:

Find A FL Plastic Surgeon

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