What does a plastic surgeon do? – Tasks and work environment
A plastic surgeon is a specialist doctor focusing on surgical procedures aimed at reconstructing or improving the body's function and appearance. Tasks include planning and performing aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries, assessing patients' medical needs, and follow-up after treatments. Plastic surgeons often work in hospital environments or private clinics where precision and accuracy are crucial. The work environment can be stressful and requires high concentration, while good teamwork with other healthcare staff is important to ensure patient safety and well-being.
Salary development over time
The salary of a plastic surgeon has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average was 86,400 SEK per month, rising to 92 200 SEK in 2023 and reaching an average of 93 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of about 8.3 percent over the period. The positive trend can be explained by increased demand for specialist doctors in plastic surgery, while educational requirements and specialist competence make the profession highly valued in the job market. Additionally, both private and public sectors contribute to a competitive salary structure, where experience and specialization often lead to better compensation.
Plastic surgeons often need to combine technical skill with strong empathy to meet patients' emotional needs during often life-changing procedures.
Plastic surgeon salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (male, private employed)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 563 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
- Gender differences: Women earn on average 92 900 SEK, which is 98 % of men's salary at 94 300 SEK
- Regional differences: Data is not specific, but salaries are often influenced by the geographic location and sector of the workplace
Education and qualifications
The educational path to becoming a plastic surgeon involves a long and specialized medical education focused on surgery. After completing medical school, a specialist training in plastic surgery and practical experience through supervised surgical training are required.
- Medical degree: 5.5 years of undergraduate studies at university
- Specialist training: Approximately 5–6 years in plastic surgery after medical license
- Certification: License from the National Board of Health and Welfare and specialist certificate
- Internship/trainee: Practical surgical training under supervision
- Prerequisites: Approved medical program and medical license
Common benefits and compensations
Typical benefits for plastic surgeons include occupational pension, health insurance, and the possibility of flexible working hours depending on the employer. In the private sector, bonuses and profit sharing may occur, while the public sector often offers more secure employment conditions and further training opportunities.
Competition and challenges
The profession of plastic surgeon is competitive, especially at the specialist level where educational requirements are high and training positions limited. Challenges include a fast pace, the need for ongoing professional development, and managing both medical and psychological aspects of patient care. Additionally, recruitment difficulties and a complex job market can make it hard to find a good work-life balance.
Tips for aspiring plastic surgeons
To succeed as a plastic surgeon, it is beneficial to have strong analytical skills and a lot of patience, as surgical procedures often require meticulous planning and precision. Good communication skills are also important to explain complex treatments to patients clearly and empathetically. Being stress-resistant is advantageous since the work environment can be demanding, and unexpected situations may arise. Engaging in continuous education and staying updated on medical advances enhances professional competence. Finally, teamwork ability is key, as plastic surgeons often work in teams with other specialists and healthcare staff.
Key facts about plastic surgeons
- Education level: Specialist doctor after about 11 years of medical education and training
- Salary range: 84,600–110,600 SEK/month
- Work environment: Surgical operating room and clinical environment with high responsibility
- Work form: Full-time with the possibility of hourly employment
- Demand: Great job prospects with increasing demand according to the Employment Service
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as a plastic surgeon, career development can lead to senior specialist roles, chief physician, or clinic director. Some choose to work more in research or education, while others establish their own private clinics. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that opportunities within the specialist doctor group are large, and demand is expected to grow over the next five years. Despite recruitment difficulties, there is a paradox where both unemployment and high turnover occur, highlighting the importance of finding the right work environment and balance in the profession.
Common questions about plastic surgery
- What does a plastic surgeon earn?
- The average salary is approximately 93 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and workplace.
- How long is the education to become a plastic surgeon?
- A total of about 11 years, including medical school and specialist training in plastic surgery.
- Are there significant gender differences in plastic surgeon salaries?
- Women earn on average 98 percent of men's salaries, which is a relatively small difference.
- In what work environments do plastic surgeons work?
- Usually in operating rooms at hospitals or private clinics with high demands on precision and hygiene.
- What are the future prospects for plastic surgeons?
- Demand is expected to increase with good job opportunities according to the Employment Service.
- What personal qualities are important in the profession?
- Precision, stress tolerance, empathy, and good communication skills are central qualities.
- Can plastic surgeons work in both private and public sectors?
- Yes, the profession is represented in both sectors with different employment conditions and benefits.
