Step 2 Required to apply for Plastic Surgery?

[TI-83]

Hey I am lost medical student and new to forums and hoping someone can give me some advice.

I did above average for matched applicants (NRMP Charting Outcomes) for plastic surgery on Step 1 and have an otherwise decently strong application. Should I postpone taking Step 2 until after I apply for residency so it is not a liability or does everyone take Step 2 now before applying?

Thanks in advance.

Best,
TI-83

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[wioneo]

I scored in the mid 260s on 1, took 2 in December mid-way through interviews, and matched.
A few early interviewers did specifically ask about taking Step 2.
I'll never know if I missed out on offers specifically because I took it late.
I ended up scoring in the low 260s on 2.
I'll also never know if that drop hurt me in any way.
From looking at this year's batch of applicants, it's clear that there's a pretty good mix between people taking it early/delaying.

No one can really answer whether or not it will help/hurt you aside from knowledge of their specific program.