New York Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Z. Paul Lorenc, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a New York plastic surgeon who has written, A Little Work: The Truth Behind Plastic Surgery's Park Avenue Facade.

This book gives great insight into all aspects of cosmetic surgery. It is amazing to see the gruelling years of training they undergo and how much work it takes to build a successful practice. On a side note, California and New York have the largest concentration of cosmetic surgeons anywhere in the United States.

A Little Work, is excellent because the reader is exposed to more than what is portrayed on surgical reality shows. Dr. Lorenc, goes a step further by painting an accurate portrary of the profession using medical catastrophes, doctors and surgical fees, and providing specific details on surgeries he performs. This is not a slow read at all, rather an addictive thriller for the medical student, patients, and anyone with a remote interest in cosmetic surgery.

Who Should Read

If you believe you want to become a plastic surgeon I would highly recommend reading about the life of a Z. Paul Lorenc, M.D. F.A.C.S., there's so much information on what it takes to excel in one of the most competitive medical specialities. For instance, Dr. Lorenc acknowledges, "When I get to the hospital before a resident or a fellow, that's not a good sign. The head of surgery at NYU used to tell us that even if you're not smart, work hard. Any surgeon who doesn't work extra hard in the beginning will never be really successful. You can't stroll. You have to run."

Therefore, this book should be at the top of any premed's reading list. I know Grey's Anatomy is a great deviation on a Thursday evening, but Dr. Lorenc a New York plastic surgeon will give you a truer perspective on life in a surgical field.