The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery prides itself on setting the highest standards for surgeons in the specialty of cosmetic surgery. After you read through what it takes for a physician to become board certified by the ABCS, you’ll see why choosing an ABCS surgeon means you’re choosing a genuine cosmetic surgery specialist.

1. Why Choose an ABCS
Surgeon
9 Facts about ABCS Surgeons

2. 1. Cosmetic Surgery
• The only certifying
board that tests a
surgeon’s
knowledge and
experience
exclusively in
cosmetic surgery

3. 2. Fellowship Trained
• Surgeons complete 1 year fellowship
training exclusively in cosmetic surgery
and patient care
• Graduated from accredited medical school
• Additional Residency Training

4. 3. Approved Cosmetic Surgery
Fellowship
• Spend full year training in comprehensive
cosmetic surgery
• Perform minimum 300 individual cosmetic
surgery procedures of face, breast, body
• Receive in-depth non-surgical training (Botox,
fillers, laser resurfacing, skin care)
• Perform and document additional minimum
set of cosmetic procedures following
fellowship completion
• Pass comprehensive, rigorous 2-day oral and
written exam

5. 4. Accredited Hospitals
• Surgeons only operated in highest
standards for safety, sanitation,
preparedness
• Operate only in accredited hospitals and
surgical centers
• Learn more about facility accreditation

6. 5. Double Board Certified
• Previously certified in one of 7 medical
specialties related to cosmetic surgery
• Recognizes American Board of Medical
Specialties
• American Osteopathic Association
• American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial
Surgery

7. 6. Carefully Screened
• Highest level of Patient Safety, Ethical
Practice, Outstanding Moral Character
• No history of substance abuse, criminal
activity, or a restricted medical license

8. 7. Re-examined
• Re-examined every 10 years.
• Comprehensive written exam
• 150 Hours of continuing medical education
• Demonstrate high level of patient
satisfaction

9. 8. Certificate of Added
Qualification
• Earned CAQ distinguishes as specialist in
facial cosmetic surgery or breast, body, &
extremity cosmetic surgery
• To earn:
– Be a current ABCS Diplomate
– Complete 100+ cases in speciality
– Complete 100 hours of continuing medical
education
– Pass 2nd Oral Exam

10. 9. Level of Excellence
We believe board certification should be
awarded to physicians who have
demonstrated an exceptional level of training
and experience in their specialties, not just
those who have met minimum standards.
With an ABCS surgeon, you know you’re in the
hands of an elite cosmetic surgery specialist.