Plastic Surgery Training in the UK: A Straight‑Forward Guide

If you’re dreaming of a career that mixes art, science and hands‑on work, plastic surgery might be your calling. The UK offers a clear, step‑by‑step path, but it can feel confusing at first. This guide breaks down the whole process, from the first application to life on the ward, so you know exactly what to do.

How to Get Into a Plastic Surgery Programme

First, you need a medical degree and a two‑year Foundation Programme. After that, you apply for Core Surgical Training (CST) through the Oriel portal. CST lasts two years and gives you a solid grounding in general surgery. During CST you must pass the MRCS exam – it’s the gateway to higher training.

Once you have the MRCS, you can apply for Higher Surgical Training (HST) in Plastic Surgery. This is a competitive selection that looks at your CST scores, audit work, research, and any relevant electives you’ve done. Many applicants boost their CV with a short placement in a plastic unit or a research project on wound healing.

The HST contract runs for six years. The first three years focus on a broad range of plastic procedures – skin cancer excision, hand surgery, burn care – while the latter three let you specialise in areas like aesthetic surgery, craniofacial work or microsurgery. You’ll sit the FRCS (Plastic Surgery) exam at the end of training to become a consultant.

What to Expect During Your Training

Day‑to‑day life varies a lot. Early on you’ll spend long hours on call, assisting in trauma lists and learning basic suturing techniques. As you progress, you’ll run your own clinics, plan reconstructive surgeries and start teaching junior trainees. The NHS provides a strong support network, but be ready for irregular hours and occasional weekend shifts.

Training isn’t just clinical. You’ll need to log a minimum number of procedures, attend weekly teaching sessions and complete a portfolio on the e‑Portfolio system. Keeping your portfolio up to date is crucial – examiners will check it before you sit the FRCS.

Cost‑wise, training itself is free – you’re paid as a junior doctor while you learn. However, you’ll need to budget for exams (MRCS and FRCS fees total around £1,500), study materials, and possible travel for conferences. Some trainees also invest in courses on microsurgery or aesthetic techniques, which can run a few hundred pounds each.

Work‑life balance is a common worry. Many trainees find that planning personal time around on‑call rotas helps. Taking advantage of the NHS’s annual leave, swapping shifts with colleagues, and using protected teaching time can make a big difference.

Finally, think about where you want to work after qualification. The NHS offers consultant posts in public hospitals, but many plastic surgeons also take private practice to supplement income and gain more flexibility. Having some private sector experience during training can open doors later.

In short, plastic surgery training in the UK is a structured, well‑supported journey. Nail the foundations, stay organized with your portfolio, and keep learning both in the clinic and in the lab. With dedication, you’ll be shaping lives with your hands before you know it.