Residency for Plastic Surgery – Overview
Plastic surgery is all about repairing, replacing and reconstructing anatomic defects. These include repairing the craniofacial structure, the trunk, oral pharynx, extremities, breasts, etc.
Plastic surgery is usually about performing aesthetic surgical procedures to treat anatomic disfigurement.
Residency for Plastic Surgery
As a prospective plastic surgeon, you need to complete a doctor residency in plastic surgery. It is an extremely important step to becoming a certified professional plastic surgeon in the US.
There are mainly two types of plastic surgery residencies. You can choose an independent plastic surgery program for a 3 years duration. Alternatively, you can choose an integrated 6-year program too.
The independent residency programs are meant for candidates who have completed a general surgery training program or trained in ENT, neurosurgery, or orthopedics.
This program also accepts candidates who have completed 3–4 years of prerequisite general surgery training.
These programs should meet the criteria set by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS).
The integrated residency programs let students enter as a PGY1. However, the candidates still need to complete the prerequisite general surgery requirements as dictated by the ABPS.
You can expect to work with other dental care settings during this.
Different Phases to complete Residency for Plastic Surgery
Let’s take a closer look at what goes into programs of residency for plastic surgery:
Different Phases to complete Residency for Plastic Surgery
PGY1
This is the surgical internship year. This could be either the most rewarding or toughest year of your residency, depending on your preparation.
This year is spent learning the basics of clinical patient management and basic surgical techniques.
You will mostly train in general surgery, but often learn other specialties, such as orthopedic surgery, anesthesia, emergency medicine, etc.
Although you may not be working directly on plastic surgery services, this opportunity lets you create your personal connections with healthcare providers.
PGY2
This is the first of two junior residency years. The curriculum for the second residency year varies. Usually, you will likely be sitting during consultations and taking part in patient management.
You will also be tasked with one or more responsibilities. This year may also let you try your skills directly during plastic surgical procedures under the direct supervision of a certified plastic surgeon.
This year teaches you to manage simple and complex lacerations. You will also get a better understanding and interpretation of diagnostic techniques.
PGY3
This is the second of two years of junior residency and is similar to the first year of training. During this time, you may be positioned as a senior on a specific service.
You will also enjoy continued gradual autonomy on the floor and OR hence expectations will be high for you.
You may also take a more prominent role in performing complex operations during this residency year for plastic surgery.
PGY4-6
These are the senior residency years in plastic surgery residency. During this, you will need to perform plastic surgeries almost every day.
You will also be handling major responsibilities around the workplace. You would be expected to lead larger cases and display your proficiency for a wide variety of plastic surgery cases.
Once you complete this residency in plastic surgery, you can either choose to continue to a fellowship or directly apply for employment.
Conclusion
Plastic surgery has become extremely high in demand over the past two decades or so.
Reports show that an increasing number of men and women are now seeking to aesthetically improve plastic surgeries across the US.
There is a significantly higher demand for certified, professional plastic surgeons in the country.
Follow these steps to complete your residency in plastic surgery and you can expect a long, fruitful career ahead as a professional plastic surgeon.
See Also
How to Become a Plastic Surgeon
All-Inclusive Plastic Surgery Vacation
Best Plastic Surgeon in California
Lap Band Surgery Cost Without Insurance
What is a Mommy Makeover Cost?
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