Doctor Selection · Board Certification
What Is the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is the only American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)–recognized board certifying physicians in plastic surgery. ABPS certification requires graduation from medical school, completion of an accredited 6+ year residency in plastic surgery (covering reconstruction, hand, microsurgery, craniofacial, and aesthetic surgery), and passing comprehensive written and oral examinations.
Training pathway
Medical school plus either an integrated 6-year plastic surgery residency or a 3-year independent track following completion of a prerequisite surgical residency (general surgery, ENT, urology, neurosurgery, or orthopedics).
Examinations
ABPS administers a written qualifying examination followed by an oral certifying examination that requires submission of a year-long case log of actual operative cases for evaluation by examiners.
Maintenance and verification
Certified surgeons must complete Continuous Certification with ongoing education and self-assessment. Verify any plastic surgeon at certificationmatters.org or abplasticsurgery.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ABPS the same as ASPS?
No. ABPS is the certifying board. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is a membership society for ABPS-certified plastic surgeons.
Is ABPS recognized internationally?
ABPS is U.S.-based. Other countries have their own recognized plastic surgery boards.
How do I verify ABPS certification?
Search certificationmatters.org — the official ABMS verification site.
Are facial plastic surgeons ABPS-certified?
Some are; many are ABMS-certified in otolaryngology with additional facial plastic surgery fellowship and ABFPRS certification. Both are legitimate credentials for facial procedures.
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Dr. Sam Rizk — Facial Plastic Surgery — Manhattan, NY
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