Health Careers:
Surgeon

What is a surgeon?

Surgeons are physicians who specialize in the treatment of injury, disease, and deformity through operations. Using a variety of instruments, and with patients under general or local anesthesia, a surgeon corrects physical deformities, repairs bone and tissue after injuries, or performs preventive surgeries on patients with debilitating diseases or disorders. Although a large number perform general surgery, many surgeons choose to specialize in a specific area. One of the most prevalent specialties is orthopedic surgery: the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. Others include neurological surgery (treatment of the brain and nervous system), cardiovascular surger, otolaryngology (treatment of the ear, nose and throat), and plastic or reconstructive surgery. Like primary care and other specialist physicians, surgeons also examine patients, perform and interpret diagnostic tests, and counsel patients on preventive health care.

Where does a surgeon work?

Surgeons typically work in well-lighted, sterile environments while performing surgery and often stand for long periods. Most work in hospitals or in surgical outpatient centers. Many surgeons work long, irregular hours. Surgeons must travel frequently between office and hospital to care for their patients. Those who are on call deal with many patients' concerns over the phone and my make emergency visits to hospitals or nursing homes.

What type of education is needed?

Formal education and training requirements for surgeons are among the most demanding of any occupation - 4 years of undergraduate school, 4 years of medical school, and 3 to 8 years of internship and residency.

Premedical students must complete undergraduate work in physics, biology, mathematics, English, and inorganic and organic chemistry. Students also take courses in the humanities and the social sciences. Some students volunteer at local hospitals or clinics to gain practical experience in the health professions.

What is the salary?

Surgeons tend to earn high salaries, ranging between $125,000 and $350,000 depending on the specialty, experience and work setting. In 2004, general surgeons averaged a salary of $282,504 per year.

Where can I go for more information?

www.facs.org