How Long Does It Take to Become an Orthopedic Surgeon?
When you decide to become an orthopedic surgeon, you’re signing up for many years of education. But don’t let the timeline scare you off—the years of training are worth it once you’ve experienced the gratification of helping your community. Here’s a general guide to how long you’ll spend at each stage of training:
- Four years of undergraduate education
- Four years of medical school
- Five years of orthopedic residency
- One to two years of fellowship to establish a subspecialty (optional)
- 13-15 years total after high school
How Much Does an Orthopedic Surgeon Make?
Orthopedic surgery is one of the highest-paying medical specialties. In fact, the average annual salary is well into six figures. However, it’s important to remember that salaries vary widely based on factors such as location, years of experience, and subspecialty. In addition to a substantial salary, orthopedic surgeons often enjoy benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. The financial rewards reflect the high level of expertise and dedication required in this field.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Education
Becoming an orthopedic surgeon is hard, but with the right support system and mindset, you’ll make the most of your education. Here are UAG School of Medicine’s tips for setting yourself up for success:
Find a Mentor
Medical school is the perfect time to find a mentor. Mentorship can play a significant role in your career development, providing guidance, support, and valuable insights into the field. A strong mentor-mentee relationship is built on mutual respect and open communication. Keep in touch regularly, seek feedback, and be open to constructive criticism. The faculty members at UAG School of Medicine are always open to mentoring future orthopedic surgeons.
Join Professional Organizations
Professional organizations offer resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education. Becoming a member can provide valuable benefits and inform you about industry trends. Examples of such organizations include:
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- American Association of Latin Orthopedic Surgeons
- Mexican Federation of Orthopaedics and Traumatology
- International Society of Fracture Repair
- North American Spine Society
- Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America
Get Involved with Research
Research is one of the most exciting aspects of medical school. You can seek research opportunities as early as undergrad. Many institutions offer research programs, internships, and fellowships, especially at the graduate level. Working with faculty members on research projects will provide you with hands-on experience and invaluable skills.
Present at Conferences
Conferences and seminars offer a platform to learn about the latest research, surgical techniques, and innovations in orthopedic surgery. They also provide opportunities to network with experienced professionals and peers. If you want to go the extra mile, consider publishing and presenting your work at a conference instead of just attending. This experience can set you apart from other candidates and open doors to further opportunities.
Continue Your Education at the UAG School of Medicine
If a fulfilling career in orthopedic surgery is your goal, join the community of students at UAG School of Medicine. We offer a world-class education to students all over the world, especially in the U.S. states of Arizona, California, Texas, Florida, and New York. Take the first step to your medical career today—get in touch with our admissions team.
