No, it is not hard to become a surgeon IF THAT IS WHAT YOU WANT. Sure at times, it was long hours and hard work, but you will enjoy every bit of it. It takes about 13 years to be a plastic surgeon in medical school. The path to becoming a plastic surgeon is a long and demanding one. The process involves: Earning a Bachelor’s Degree. Passing the Medical College Admissions Test Applying to and completing medical school. Completing a residency program.