Doctor Selection · Board Certification
What Is Fellowship Training in Plastic Surgery?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
A plastic surgery fellowship is additional 1-2 years of focused training after completion of plastic surgery residency, specializing in a defined subarea such as hand surgery, microsurgery, craniofacial surgery, aesthetic surgery, or breast reconstruction. Fellowship training signals additional expertise in that subspecialty beyond the breadth of residency training.
Common plastic surgery fellowships
Aesthetic surgery fellowship (focused cosmetic surgery training). Hand surgery fellowship (also offered to orthopedic and general surgeons). Microsurgery fellowship. Craniofacial fellowship. Breast reconstruction fellowship.
What fellowship adds beyond residency
Concentrated case volume in a specific area. Mentorship by experts in that subspecialty. Often academic productivity (publications, presentations). Eligibility for hospital appointments and academic positions in that subarea.
When fellowship matters for patients
For complex or specialized procedures (rhinoplasty, facelift, microsurgical breast reconstruction, complex hand reconstruction), fellowship training in the relevant area is meaningful additional expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fellowship training the same as a subspecialty board certification?
Not always. Some fellowships lead to recognized subspecialty certification (e.g., hand surgery). Others are training credentials without separate board certification.
Should I prefer a fellowship-trained surgeon?
For complex procedures in that subspecialty, yes when available.
How do I verify fellowship training?
Ask directly: "Where did you complete fellowship and in what area?" Verify against the institution's training programs.
Is fellowship required for cosmetic procedures?
No. Many ABPS-certified plastic surgeons perform cosmetic procedures without separate aesthetic fellowships. Surgeon volume and outcomes matter most.
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