The American Board of Cosmetic Gynecology (ABCG) offers a globally respected certification program that follows a progressive, three-stage training and evaluation process.
The certification program is designed to help physicians build competency from non-surgical procedures to advanced surgical expertise. Each level includes academic learning, hands-on demonstrations, and live patient training under expert supervision.
This blog will provide a step-by-step breakdown of the ABCG certification process, including what’s covered at each level, who it’s for, and how to begin your journey toward becoming board-certified in cosmetic gynecology.
Why Certification in Cosmetic Gynecology Matters
In elective procedures like cosmetic gynecology, trust plays a central role in a patient’s decision-making process. Without standardized credentials, patients often struggle to identify truly qualified specialists, making board certification a key trust signal.
With certification, physicians also differentiate themselves in a competitive market, enhance their reputation among peers, and open doors to new career opportunities.
Certification from a recognized board like ABCG signals that a provider has undergone rigorous training, demonstrated competency, and adheres to ethical standards of care. In a space where results and safety matter deeply, board-certified credentials give patients the assurance they need to move forward with confidence. Join hundreds of professionals who have already advanced their careers and deepened patient confidence by becoming ABCG-certified.
The 3 Levels of ABCG Certification
ABCG’s certification program is divided into three progressive levels: Diploma, Fellowship, and Board Certification. Each level builds on the last, offering more specialized instruction designed to expand clinical capabilities, reinforce ethical standards, and prepare physicians for increasingly complex procedures.
Level 1: Non-Surgical Diploma
Registration Fee: $3,500
Duration: 2 days
Includes: Live patient training, diploma, and MCQ prep
Level 1 is open to OB-GYNS, general practitioners, nurse practitioners, and surgeons. This two-day course provides immersive training in non-surgical cosmetic gynecology, combining expert-led lectures with hands-on clinical demonstrations and live patient training.
Participants learn foundational anatomy, laser and RF technologies, and gain practical skills in procedures such as genital bleaching, PRP applications, botulinum toxin for vaginismus, carboxytherapy, and more. The course concludes with an MCQ assessment and includes a diploma upon successful completion. This program allows practitioners to expand their service offerings, improve patient satisfaction, and increase competitiveness in the growing aesthetic space. Although Level 1 does not provide board eligibility, it is a vital first step in the full ABCG certification process.
Level 2: Surgical Fellowship
Registration Fee: $4,200
Duration: 2 days (lecture + live surgical training)
Includes:
- Expert-led instruction on core surgical procedures, including labiaplasty, perineoplasty, clitoral hood reduction, and fat grafting
- Hands-on surgical training with live patient cases
- Clinical guidance on consultation techniques, complication management, and perioperative care
- Eligibility to earn an ABCG Fellowship upon completion of Level 1 and Level 2
Level 2 focuses on surgical training for obstetricians, gynecologists, and surgeons committed to expanding their scope of practice. This two-day program blends didactic instruction with live case observation and hands-on practice in procedures such as labiaplasty, perineoplasty, fat grafting, and clitoral hood reduction.
In addition to mastering technical skills, participants gain valuable insights into preoperative consultation, postoperative care, and the prevention and management of surgical complications.
At the end of level 2, a structured MCQ exam is conducted. Although the exam is not pass/fail, it provides valuable feedback in preparation for board certification. Upon completing Level 2 and submitting the required surgical and non-surgical case logs, participants may apply for fellowship with ABCG.
Level 3: Board Certification
Course Fee: $6,000
Examination Fee: $2,500
Includes: Board certification
Level 3 is a comprehensive, three-day board certification program designed for participants who have completed Levels 1 and 2, documented 10 surgical and 20 non-surgical cases, and practiced cosmetic gynecology for at least one year post-Level 2.
Days 1 and 2 focus on detailed reviews of non-surgical and surgical procedures, complication management, and evolving technologies such as PRP, exosomes, and HIFU. Day 3 includes two 100-question multiple-choice exams (non-surgical and surgical) and an oral board exam where candidates must present and defend clinical cases.
Those who meet all requirements earn the prestigious title of ABCG Board-Certified Cosmetic Gynecological Surgeon, recognized globally for clinical excellence and ethical practice.
Maintaining Your Certification: What You Need to Know
ABCG board-certified professionals are required to complete a recertification exam every seven years to maintain their credential. This requirement applies exclusively to those who have successfully completed Step 3 (Board Certification) and does not extend to diploma or fellowship holders from Steps 1 or 2.
Recertification ensures you continue to meet ABCG’s rigorous standards in clinical knowledge, ethical practice, and patient care. The process involves retaking both the written and oral board exams and submitting a $2,500 fee—no additional coursework is required.
By maintaining your certification, you reinforce your commitment to excellence, stay aligned with the latest advancements in cosmetic gynecology, and strengthen patient trust in an increasingly competitive market.
Take the Next Step in Your Certification Journey
Whether you’re looking to expand your clinical services or enhance your credibility in the field of cosmetic gynecology, ABCG certification offers a clear and respected path forward.
Each step in the certification process is designed to deepen your expertise, enhance patient trust, and help you stay competitive in a rapidly evolving field. With training that includes live patient cases, surgical mentorship, and comprehensive board preparation, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to lead in your specialty.
Take the next step with ABCG—and earn the trust your expertise deserves.
