Plastic Surgery
What Is Board Certification?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
Board certification in plastic surgery is a voluntary credential that confirms a physician has completed an accredited residency in plastic surgery and passed rigorous written and oral examinations administered by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). The ABPS is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) to certify plastic surgeons. Board certification is the most important credential to verify before undergoing any surgical procedure.
Why board certification matters
Board certification ensures a surgeon has met standardized training and competency requirements. It requires completion of an ACGME-accredited residency program, passage of comprehensive written and oral examinations, documentation of surgical outcomes, and ongoing continuing education (maintenance of certification). Non-certified physicians may lack equivalent training.
How to verify board certification
Verify ABPS certification at certificationmatters.org, the official ABMS verification site. This takes less than 60 seconds and confirms whether a surgeon is currently certified, when they were first certified, and whether their certification is current. You can also verify directly through the ABPS at abplsurg.org.
Other relevant certifications
For facial plastic surgery: American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS), whose surgeons are also certified by either ABPS or the American Board of Otolaryngology. For cosmetic surgery: Be cautious — the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) is not recognized by the ABMS and does not require completion of an accredited plastic surgery residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between ABPS and ABCS certification?
Yes — a significant difference. ABPS (American Board of Plastic Surgery) is the only ABMS-recognized board for plastic surgery, requiring a full plastic surgery residency. ABCS (American Board of Cosmetic Surgery) is not ABMS-recognized and has less rigorous training requirements.
Does board certification expire?
Surgeons must maintain their certification through ongoing education and periodic recertification. Initial certification is time-limited and requires renewal, ensuring continued competency.
Can a non-plastic-surgeon perform cosmetic surgery?
Yes, legally. Any licensed physician can perform cosmetic procedures in most states regardless of specialty training. This is why verifying specific board certification in plastic surgery or facial plastic surgery is essential.
What does "board eligible" mean?
Board eligible means the surgeon has completed their residency and is qualified to sit for board certification examinations but has not yet passed them. Board eligible is not equivalent to board certified.
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Dr. Daniel Careaga
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Plastic Surgery · Coral Gables, FL
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Plastic Surgery · Boston, MA
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