I grew up in Columbia, SC, and knew from the age of 12 that I wanted to become a plastic surgeon. The Veteran's Hospital, just a short distance from my home and along my daily paper route, had a profound impact on me. As I delivered papers to patient rooms, I saw firsthand the traumatic deformities many veterans endured. Their life-altering injuries, sustained during their service, deeply intrigued me. I felt a strong pull to learn how to care for these injuries and help these patients lead better lives. This desire to make a difference in people's lives and boost their self-esteem is what ultimately led me to pursue a career in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Knowing my career path early on, I carefully planned my education through college and medical school to fulfill my dream of becoming a plastic surgeon. I completed a five-year general surgery residency in Wilmington, NC, followed by a two-year plastic surgery residency. In total, it took 15 years of education and training to become eligible for the American Board of Plastic Surgery certifying examinations. I passed my written board exam in 1998, during my first year in private practice, and successfully completed the rigorous oral exam in 1999. I've maintained my board certification ever since by taking recertification exams every ten years. Surgeons certified before 1995 didn't have to take further exams, but I believe in staying current with the latest advancements in the field.
To maintain my board certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc., I complete at least 50 hours of continuing education every year. This commitment not only keeps me at the forefront of my field but also ensures my membership in the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc. is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify surgeons in cosmetic surgery of the entire body, thanks to the extensive training required during plastic surgery residency.
