Plastic Surgery Nurse Career Overview
Plastic surgery is sought after for various reasons, whether for reconstructive purposes following serious illnesses or injuries like breast cancer or burns, or for aesthetic changes desired by individuals. 
Plastic surgery nurses, who are registered nurses (RNs), play a crucial role in assisting with both cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures. Their responsibilities span perioperative and postoperative care, ensuring the safe recovery of patients from these surgeries.
Duration of Education: 2-4 years
Job Outlook: 9% increase from 2020-2030
Median Annual Wage: $77,600
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Plastic Surgery Nurse Career in Brief
– ADN or BSN required
– Certification optional
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Plastic surgery nurses are involved in diverse aspects of plastic surgery, providing support to surgeons during procedures. They may assess patients pre-surgery, offer assistance in the operating room, administer postoperative care, and in some cases, perform nonsurgical procedures.
Career Traits:
– Patient assessment and safety
– Knowledge of reconstructive and aesthetic surgery
– Communication skills
– Interpersonal skills
Where Do Plastic Surgery Nurses Work?
Plastic surgery nurses are employed in various settings, including private medical offices, hospital operating rooms, and outpatient clinics.
– Private Surgeon’s Clinics:
Educating patients about the surgical process, monitoring patients during surgery, and conducting follow-ups after procedures.
– Hospital Operating Rooms:
Sterilizing and preparing operating rooms, assessing patients’ vital signs throughout surgery, and dressing wounds post-procedure.
– Outpatient Clinics:
Assessing patients before consultations and surgery, providing treatment information, and assisting surgeons during procedures.
Is Plastic Surgery Nursing Right for Me?
It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of a career, and plastic surgery nursing is no exception.
Advantages to Becoming a Plastic Surgery Nurse:
– High job satisfaction by positively impacting patients’ lives through reconstructive or cosmetic treatments.
– Potential for flexible hours or a 9-5 schedule.
– High earning potential, with the median salary for RNs reaching $77,600 in 2021, and some earning over $100,000.
Disadvantages to Becoming a Plastic Surgery Nurse:
– Can be more stressful due to invasive surgical procedures.
– Physically demanding when assisting patients or using specific medical equipment.
– Potentially high patient load in some offices.
How to Become a Plastic Surgery Nurse
1. Earn a BSN or ADN:
Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, typically taking four or two years, respectively.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN:
Successfully pass the National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN) to qualify for nursing licensure.
3. Gain Clinical Nursing Experience:
Acquire clinical experience through entry-level positions in hospitals and clinics. Prospective plastic surgery nurses seeking board certification need two years or 1,000 hours of RN experience.
4. Consider Becoming a Certified Plastic Surgical Nurse (CPSN):
While not mandatory, this certification allows RNs to demonstrate their competence, and some employers prefer hiring CPSNs. Candidates must pass an exam for certification.
How Much Do Plastic Surgery Nurses Make?
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses (RNs) have a median annual salary of $77,600. Although specific salary data for plastic surgery nurses is not provided by the BLS, information from Payscale indicates that these professionals earn an average base salary of $32 per hour. Actual earnings can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and education level.
Job Outlook for RNs and Plastic Surgery Nurses
The demand for RNs is expected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, surpassing the average growth rate for all professions. This increased demand is driven by an aging population requiring more medical care and seeking plastic surgery to reverse the effects of aging.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to become a plastic surgery nurse?
– It typically takes 4-6 years to become a plastic surgery nurse, which includes obtaining specialty certification. An associate degree usually takes two years, while a bachelor’s program lasts four years. After completing education and earning licensure, RNs must gain a minimum of two years of experience before applying for certification.
2. What types of procedures are most common for plastic surgery nurses?
– Plastic surgery nurses assist surgeons in various procedures. According to a 2020 report from the American Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, common procedures include breast augmentations, facelifts, eyelid surgery, liposuction, and nose reshaping.
3. What skills are important for plastic surgery nurses?
– Plastic surgery nurses require essential nursing skills such as interpersonal expertise, physical assessments, patient care, and effective communication. Additionally, they need a comprehensive understanding of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
4. Are CPSNs required to renew their certification?
– Yes, Certified Plastic Surgical Nurses (CPSNs) must renew their certification every three years. Renewal eligibility includes completing at least 45 patient contact hours, including two hours related to patient safety.
Resources for Plastic Surgery Nurses
1. International Society of Plastic and Aesthetic Nurses (ISPAN)
– Founded in 1975, this global nonprofit organization promotes education for plastic surgery nurses. Members benefit from networking opportunities, educational resources, and discounts on publications. The organization offers credentials like CPSN and certified aesthetic nurse specialist (CANS).
2. American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
– Connecting professionals and patients, ASPS provides access to educational and professional development opportunities. Members can subscribe to ASPS publications and engage with the community through online forums and job boards.
3. The American Association of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery (AAAMS)
– AAAMS offers formal cosmetic surgery training for nurses, practitioners, and physicians. Members can take courses in facial and body aesthetics, including liposuction and dermal fillers training.
4. American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS)
– This organization provides training, professional development, and advocacy for professionals in the cosmetic surgery field. Members can attend conferences, participate in training programs, and take part in web clinics.
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