im a bit sketchy on the details but heres what i know - maxfax surgeons earn a lorra lorra money! its tough, but once you do it, its crazy money. i spoke to someone whose daughter is doing it, and asked whether she did medicine aswell, but he said no, you can do an msc or something in it. not 100% sure though. i dont think it takes as long as 14-18 years to start earning proper money mind you