Getting PRS after ENT

[5150]

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Just for some background as to why I'm posing this question: I'm very interested in craniofacial surgery but I'm not entirely fond the idea of having to do 5 years of gen surg.


My question is this: I've heard on numerous occasions on this forum that it is easier to match into plastics from gen surg as opposed to ENT or ortho. Does anyone have an idea as to how true this is?

Also, this might be a bit of a stupid question but why are some plastics fellowships 2 years and others 3? Do the 3 year programs have a year dedicated to research? Are you forced into the 3 year programs from ENT because your background in surgery outside the head and neck is probably not as strong?

Any clarification would be appreciated, thanks!

 

[maxheadroom]

How many times does this question have to be answered? The numbers are quite clear that the best chance for matching an Independent Plastics residency (AKA "Fellowship") is after COMPLETING General Surgery. Yes, it is possible to match after completing OTO, but if Plastics is your true goal then you should either attempt an Integrated or Combined program or complete General Surgery in order to maximize your chances.

An interesting note is that the ACGME has recently directed the ABPS and RRC of Plastic Surgery to transition ALL Plastic Surgery residencies to an Integrated model of 2+3. No one knows how quickly Independent programs will be expected to change their models or if this directive will stand.

The difference between 2 and 3 year programs is based on the preference of the program. Some places have faculty that believe that the full scope of plastic surgery cannot be adequately taught in 2 years.

 

[bobby6]

Most ENTs are not that interested into applying to a General Plastic Surgery residency. The ones who are interested in Plastics usually apply for the 1 year facial plastics fellowship. 30% of the residency training and board examination for ENT is in facial plastic surgery. Only two ABMS boards, Otolaryngology and Plastic Surgery certify physicians to perform plastic surgery. Both boards share the subspecialty certificate of Plastic Surgery within the Head and Neck.

An ENT even without a facial plastics fellowship should be just as competent as any plastics residency graduate to perform facial plastic surgery.