Remaining Steadfast on Diversity and Inclusion in Plastic Surgery

Organized plastic and reconstructive surgery has recognized the importance of diversity for optimal patient care and advancement of the specialty. Initial goals focused on increasing opportunities for underrepresented members of the society: women and Blacks and Hispanic/Latino members. The diversity lens has expanded to not only include race and sex but also diversity of religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, geography, economic status, membership status, and employment type. In response to diversity antagonists who argue that diversity abandons a system based on "excellence," we counter that diversity efforts demand excellence but realize that success often requires a more level playing field with the elimination of discriminatory barriers.