Plastic Surgeon

Description: Plastic surgeons treat diseases, injuries, and deformities, and improve physical appearance by utilizing different surgical methods. They may work as reconstructive or cosmetic surgeons.

Knowledge Required: Sciences, biology, anatomy, physiology, radiology, medical ethics, mathematics, communication

Skills: Surgeons solve complex problems, have general knowledge of scientific rules and methods, and are active listeners and decision makers. 

Career Path: After completing college and medical school, aspiring plastic surgeons must complete a residency program that lasts five to six years. Many doctors choose to complete a fellowship in order to develop specialized plastic surgery skills.

Best Cities for this job: Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, San Francisco, and Sacramento

Median Annual Income: National: $186,044 CA: $339,738

Future Growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of surgeons to grow 22 percent over the 2008–18 decade, which is faster than average.

From the field: "Ultimately I have to be happy. And whatever it takes to succeed, whatever sacrifices you have to make, you make them, to make yourself happy in life." - Dr. Linda Li, Plastic Surgeon, Dr. 90210