Fellow of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (FSTS)

The Fellow of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (FSTS) is an honorary title given to thoracic surgeons for their excellence, leadership, and commitment, including surgery of the heart, lungs, esophagus, and major vessels within the chest. The title is conferred by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), one of the most respected international organizations in cardiothoracic surgery.

A Fellow of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (FSTS) is a distinguished member of the STS who has fulfilled rigorous criteria in training, board certification, research, and ethical standing. Fellowship is granted only to surgeons who have displayed long-standing dedication to cardiothoracic surgery and have contributed meaningfully to clinical innovation, education, or scientific advancement in the field.

To apply for FSTS, a candidate typically must:

• Hold a recognized medical degree and cardiothoracic surgery residency/fellowship training
• Be board-certified in thoracic surgery / cardiothoracic surgery
• Have a minimum number of years in independent surgical practice
• Demonstrate excellent clinical outcomes and ethical professional conduct
• Maintain active STS membership
• Submit references/recommendations from senior surgeons

FSTS is not a time-limited program.

Once awarded, the fellowship status is lifelong, provided the surgeon maintains membership and professional compliance with the STS.

Fees may include:

• Annual STS membership fee
• One-time fellowship processing or application fee
• Exact fee varies each year and by membership category.

This fellowship is ideal for:

• Experienced cardiothoracic and thoracic surgeons
• Surgeons seeking international recognition
• Professionals with strong academic, clinical, or research portfolios
• Practitioners wishing to join a global network of thoracic surgery leaders
• Surgeons involved in cardiac, lung, mediastinal, or esophageal surgeries

• Enhances credibility and professional status
• Opens leadership and committee participation opportunities within STS
• Adds value for career advancement in academic institutions
• Provides access to international conferences, journals, and scientific platforms
• Shows commitment to excellence in cardiothoracic surgical practice

There is no entrance exam for FSTS.

Eligibility is based on:

• Surgical training and board certification
• Professional experience
• Peer recommendations
• Review by STS credentials committee

1. Apply for/maintain STS membership
2. Prepare documentation (CV, proof of training, board certification, logbook if required)
3. Submit the FSTS fellowship application
4. Provide letters of recommendation from senior cardiothoracic surgeons
5. Application undergoes peer review and committee evaluation
6. Receive approval and formal fellowship confirmation

Not applicable—FSTS is not provided by educational institutions.

Becoming an FSTS opens doors to:

• Leadership positions in national and international cardiothoracic associations
• Academic appointments in universities
• Editorial board memberships
• Invitations to conferences and global collaborations
• Enhanced credibility in clinical practice

FSTS is typically a recognition earned after completing advanced training.

However, surgeons may still pursue:

• Super-specialty fellowships (e.g., heart failure, transplant, minimally invasive thoracic surgery)
• Academic certifications
• Leadership and management programs in healthcare

• Senior Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon
• Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Academic faculty in medical universities
• Research leader in cardiovascular sciences
• International medical consultant and visiting surgeon

Salaries vary widely based on country and hospital type:

• India: ₹20–40 LPA for senior surgeons
• UAE/UK: AED 45,000–90,000 per month / £80,000–150,000 per year
• USA: USD 300,000–600,000 annually
• FSTS enhances reputation, which can increase earning potential.