As the kids return to school, and teachers begin to work again, the beginning of September is a great time for me to work on learning.  After four years of college, four years of medical school, and 5 years of training in Plastic Surgery, even starting my 20th year of private practice does not mean I know it all.

Every 3 years, I must complete 150 credits of continuing medical education just to maintain my license.  In addition, to remain a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, I have to do a Maintenance of Certification program in 10 year cycles.  This involves courses, certifications and an exam.

Next year is my exam year, and I will be doing the Cosmetic Plastic Surgery module, as that has been my sole focus for my career.  While I still remain competent in all areas of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, I have not performed many of the procedures in decades.

This year, I am on a mission to explore new areas of practice, as well as critically assess what I do best and where I can improve.  I have never seen a perfect result in plastic surgery, be it my own work or others.  I do not think it is impossible, but I like the challenge of getting as close as humanly possible while remaining safe.

I invite you to assess your own work, whatever it may be.  I am sure there are courses or videos that might expand your abilities, as there are for me.  Let us all return to school and learn for a lifetime.  School is definitely in session.