Plastic surgery nurse

A plastic surgery nurse cares for patients who undergo cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures, such as face lifts, chemical peels, lasers, breast reconstruction, and liposuction.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Average annual salary

$80,000

Payscale.com (Jan. 2026)

Varied

Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

What is the role of a plastic surgery nurse?

You’ll work with surgeons on a variety of invasive and non-invasive procedures, from the small and elective, like dermabrasion, to the more complex, like facial reconstruction after an accident.

What you’ll do as a plastic surgery nurse

Education

You’ll teach patients about what to expect before, during and after procedures.

Preparation

You’ll prepare the operating room for procedures.

Stay up-to-date

You’ll always be in the know about the latest procedures and processes.

Support

You’ll provide a sensitive and non-judgmental place for patients and their families to feel confident about their surgery.

Treatment

You’ll screen patients for surgery, care for wounds and surgical sites, and administer treatments such as chemical peels, and laser treatments.

Patient having a consultation and examination alongside loved one. Nurse takes vitals.

Where you’ll work as a plastic surgery nurse

Plastic surgery nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Doctors’ offices
Hospitals
Outpatient care centers

How to become a plastic surgery nurse

Get an Associate’s Degrees in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining two years’ experience in plastic surgery.

Pass the Certified Plastic Surgical Nurse exam or Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist exam through the Plastic Surgery Nursing Certification Board.

You’re ready to work as a plastic surgery nurse!