Gender Equality in Plastic Surgery Training: A Canadian Nationwide Cross-sectional Analysis

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Gender Equity in Medicine

Background:

• Gender disparities in surgical training exposure exist in various specialties.
• Limited research has assessed gender-based differences in plastic surgery training.
• Ensuring equitable opportunities is vital for gender equity in surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential gender-based differences in plastic surgery residency training in Canada.
• To assess surgical case logs, career aspirations, and perceived gender bias among residents.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to Canadian plastic surgery residency programs.
• Data collected included the number of surgical cases (co-surgeon or primary assistant).
• Survey also assessed career goals and subjective perceptions of gender bias.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was found in reconstructive or aesthetic surgery case logs between male and female residents.
• A higher percentage of female residents (39%) than male residents (4%) reported their gender limited surgical exposure.
• Male residents showed more interest in academic careers, while female residents preferred community practice.

Conclusions:

• Objective surgical case logs show no gender disparity in plastic surgery training.
• Subjective experiences reveal female residents perceive gender bias affecting their training.
• Residency programs must actively address perceived and actual gender inequalities in surgical education.