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Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor
Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.
Interested in the medical field and want to know about how to become a surgeon? Surgeons are not just doctors; they are life-savers, dedicated to repairing the human body and restoring health.
From orthopedic surgeons handling fractures to neurosurgeons performing brain surgeries, and from cardiovascular surgeons treating heart conditions to general surgeons with diverse expertise, their impact is profound. Surgeons bear immense responsibility for their patients’ well-being, leveraging their skills and expertise.
Join us on a journey through this roadmap on how to become a surgeon. We’ll be exploring what is a surgeon, why choose a career in surgery, what steps you can follow to become a surgeon, essential skills, specialized fields, top colleges, career opportunities and salary.
A surgeon is a medical professional who performs operations to treat diseases, injuries, and other health problems. They specialize in different fields, such as general surgery, orthopedics, cardiology, and neurology.
If you aim to become a surgeon, you need to be skilled, patient, and ready for years of hard work.
Here is the answer to your question on “What are the steps to becoming a surgeon?” or “How to Become a Surgeon?”. We’ll break down the journey for you in very easy steps:
The first step toward becoming a surgeon in India is to complete Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) as core subjects. Students should aim for high scores, as medical entrance exams are highly competitive. A strong foundation in biology and human anatomy is essential since these subjects form the base of medical education.
After 12th, aspiring surgeons must qualify the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) to secure admission to an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) program in government or private medical colleges. NEET is a highly competitive national-level exam, so students need rigorous preparation in biology, physics, and chemistry to secure a good rank and gain admission into top medical colleges.
MBBS is a 5.5-year degree program, including 4.5 years of academic study and 1 year of mandatory internship in hospitals. During MBBS, students learn about human anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, surgery, and other medical subjects. The internship provides hands-on experience in various medical fields, helping students understand their area of interest before choosing a specialization in surgery.
After completing MBBS, students must appear for NEET-PG (Postgraduate Medical Entrance Exam) to qualify for Master of Surgery (MS) in General Surgery, which is a 3-year program. Some may opt for super-specializations like Cardiothoracic Surgery, Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, or Plastic Surgery, which require further studies such as MCh (Master of Chirurgiae) or DNB (Diplomate of National Board) programs.
To become a skilled surgeon, practical experience is crucial. After completing their MS or super-specialization, surgeons typically work as residents or junior doctors in hospitals under experienced professionals. This period allows them to refine their surgical techniques, learn advanced procedures, and build confidence in handling complex cases. Working in reputed hospitals can also improve career prospects.
Before practicing independently, surgeons must register with the National Medical Commission (NMC) or State Medical Councils to obtain a medical license. This certification is mandatory to legally perform surgeries in India. Some surgeons also choose to pursue international certification exams like USMLE (for the USA) or PLAB (for the UK) to practice abroad. Continuous learning and updating surgical skills through workshops and research are also important in this field.
Surgery is a broad field with numerous subspecialties, each focusing on a specific organ system or type of procedure. So Along with how to become surgeon, you might want to enquire about specializations. Here are some of the most common surgical specializations:
This is just a brief overview of some common surgical specializations. There are many other subspecialties and fellowship programs available for surgeons to pursue.
Becoming a surgeon demands a diverse set of skills that combine medical knowledge with practical abilities and personal attributes. If you’re wondering how to become a surgeon, it’s essential to understand the key skills you’ll need to develop:
In addition to these skills, surgeons must also possess a strong work ethic, dedication to lifelong learning, and a passion for helping others.
The path to becoming a surgeon generally requires approximately 13 to 14 years of education and training. This timeline encompasses 4 years dedicated to obtaining a bachelor’s degree, followed by 4 years in medical school, and an additional 5 to 6 years spent in surgical residency. Furthermore, certain surgeons may opt for additional specialization, which can extend their training by several years through fellowship programs. Although this journey is lengthy, it is immensely fulfilling for individuals who are committed to the profession, as it provides the chance to profoundly influence the lives of patients.
After completing junior college, you may wonder, “How to become a surgeon after 12th?” Choosing the right medical college is crucial for pursuing a prestigious surgeon’s degree. Here’s a look at the top 10 colleges in India:
| S.No. | College Name | Eligibility Criteria | Admission Criteria | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi | MBBS degree with a completed rotating internship | Based on AIIMS PG Entrance Exam performance and merit | Offers advanced surgical departments, simulation labs, research centers, and clinical rotations |
| 2 | Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore | 10+2 with PCB and English, valid NEET score | Based on CMC Vellore UG Entrance Exam and interview | Advanced medical facilities, research centers, libraries, hostels, and extracurriculars |
| 3 | Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET-UG required | Based on NEET-UG scores, tests, and interview | Advanced medical labs, research centers, hostels, and sports grounds |
| 4 | Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET-UG required | Based on NEET-UG scores | Modern medical facilities, research centers, libraries, hostels, and sports grounds |
| 5 | Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), Delhi | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET score required | Based on NEET-UG scores and counseling | Medical labs, libraries, hostels, and extracurriculars |
| 6 | King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET score required | Based on NEET-UG scores and counseling | Medical labs, research centers, libraries, hostels, and sports facilities |
| 7 | Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET-UG score required | Based on NEET-UG scores and BHU PMT counseling | Medical labs, research centers, libraries, hostels, and sports grounds |
| 8 | Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET score required | Based on NEET-UG scores and counseling | Medical labs, research centers, libraries, hostels, and sports facilities |
| 9 | Madras Medical College (MMC), Chennai | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET-UG score required | Based on NEET-UG scores and counseling | Medical facilities, research centers, libraries, hostels, and sports grounds |
| 10 | Grant Medical College (GMC), Mumbai | 10+2 with PCB and English, NEET score required | Based on NEET-UG scores and counseling | Medical facilities, research centers, libraries, hostels, and sports facilities |
Getting into these top colleges requires hard work, dedication, and stellar performance in entrance exams like NEET and AIIMS PG.
Becoming a surgeon opens a vast numbers of career opportunities in both clinical and non-clinical settings. As you explore how to become a surgeon, you’ll discover that this field is not just limited to performing surgeries but extends to various specializations and roles within the healthcare industry.
Understanding how to become a surgeon is the first step towards unlocking these diverse career paths. It involves rigorous education and training, but the rewards are substantial, both in terms of personal fulfillment and professional opportunities. Whether in a high-tech operating room or a remote clinic, surgeons make a profound impact on patient lives and the medical community.
The largest organization for surgeons in India, providing training, research opportunities, and networking for professionals.
Website: www.asiindia.org
Focuses on advancements in laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery, offering certifications and workshops.
Website: www.iages.in
Specializes in promoting minimally invasive surgical techniques through training and skill enhancement programs.
Website: www.amasi.org
Supports surgeons specializing in vascular and interventional radiology with training programs and research opportunities.
Website: www.isvirindia.com
A professional body for cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgeons, focusing on advanced surgical techniques.
Website: www.iacts.org
Represents orthopedic surgeons in India and provides research support, workshops, and training.
Website: www.ioaindia.org
The salary of a surgeon in India varies based on factors like specialty, experience, and location. On average, surgeons earn between ₹5.0 – ₹28.9 Lakhs per year (approximately $4,765.79 to $32,764.82 per year). Specialties like neurosurgery and cardiovascular surgery often command even higher salaries. However, these figures are rough estimates, and actual salaries can differ significantly.
If you’re wondering how to become a surgeon, the process involves earning an MBBS degree, completing a postgraduate degree (MS/MD), and obtaining the necessary certifications. Dedication and continuous learning are essential in this career.
Salary Source: Glassdoor
Becoming a surgeon is a journey that requires passion, dedication, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By following the steps outlined in this guide on how to become a surgeon, you can navigate the path to this rewarding career. Remember, the road may be long, but the impact you can make as a surgeon is profound.
The path on how to become a surgeon in India might seem overwhelming, but remember, every long journey begins with a single step. So what are you waiting for? Start your journey today if you’re ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of being a surgeon.
Evaluate numerous career choices to choose the right career path for yourself. Dive in to our guide on Career Advice.
In India, it takes around 12-15 years to become a surgeon, including 5.5 years of MBBS, a 1-year internship, and 3-7 years of postgraduate training.
If you’ve finished 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, the first step is to clear the NEET examination for admission into an MBBS degree. After MBBS, you must pursue a postgraduate degree in surgery (MS or DNB). Some may choose to super-specialize further, which requires additional years of study and training.
MBBS is the foundational degree for anyone aspiring to become a surgeon. However, an MBBS alone does not qualify you to become a surgeon. You must pursue a postgraduate degree in surgery after MBBS. This equips you with the specialized knowledge and skills required to perform surgeries.
On average, surgeons in India earn between INR 5.0 – INR 28.9 lakh per year as per “Glassdoor”.
As mentioned above, there are multiple surgical specializations to choose from like:
1. General
2. Orthopedic
3. Cardiovascular
4. Neurosurgery
5. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Yes, becoming a surgeon is challenging. It requires years of intense education, training, and hands-on experience. Surgeons also need to handle high-pressure situations and make quick, critical decisions.
MBBS fees: INR 1–20 lakhs (government colleges), INR 50 lakhs+ (private colleges).
MS fees: INR 1–15 lakhs.
To become a surgeon doctor, complete 10+2 with Science, clear NEET, earn an MBBS degree, complete a surgical residency, and obtain the necessary certifications.
The youngest surgeon, according to records, is Akrit Jaswal from India, who performed surgery at the age of 7.
You cannot become a surgeon without NEET, NEET is mandatory for MBBS, which is the first step to becoming a surgeon in India.
Upon finishing the 10+2 education, the subsequent step involves taking national-level medical entrance examinations such as the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) to obtain admission into an undergraduate medical program. It is essential to register for a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) course.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
