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.