The Evolution of Organized Plastic Surgery in the United States and Its Role as a Global Partner

The medical environment in the United States is evolving rapidly and the stresses that plastic surgeons face are mounting. These changes and stresses are not unique to the United States but rather are impacting our specialty globally. In order to help its members meet these challenges and to remain relevant, organized plastic surgery in the United States must evolve. In addition, as the nation whose plastic surgery organizations have the largest infrastructure to support their membership, organized plastic surgery in the United States could make a significant contribution to helping our international colleagues. Various challenges facing plastic surgeons in the United States and throughout the world are discussed as well as possible roles that organized plastic surgery can play to support practicing surgeons around the globe.