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Predictors of Match Success for Reapplicants in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Insights From Program Directors
Christian X Lava1, Peaches A Dozier2, Stephen B Baker2
1Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC.
Journal of Surgical Education
|September 17, 2025
Summary
Despite perceived stigma, plastic and reconstructive surgery programs consider reapplicants. A preliminary surgical internship is the preferred pathway, emphasizing clinical excellence and research for reapplication success.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Specialties
- Residency Admissions
Background:
- Plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) is highly competitive, with significant annual unmatch rates.
- Existing research on PRS applicants primarily focuses on first-time applicants, leaving a gap in understanding reapplicants.
- Program Directors' (PDs) perspectives on PRS reapplicants are not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Program Directors' (PDs) views on reapplicants.
- To identify preferred reapplication pathways and crucial factors for reapplicant success.
- To understand the barriers faced by reapplicants in the PRS specialty.
Main Methods:
- A 12-item survey was emailed to PRS PDs across multiple institutions.
- The survey collected data on perceived stigma, recommended reapplication strategies, and matching barriers.
- Data were collected from November 2024 to February 2025 through the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons.
Main Results:
- Eighty-four percent of responding PDs acknowledged stigma toward reapplicants, yet 80% offered interviews.
- Preliminary surgical internship (54%) and research fellowship (22%) were the most favored pathways for reapplicants.
- Key success factors included clinical excellence (22%), new research (18%), and departmental rotation (14%); major barriers were resume improvement (22%) and poor interviews (16%).
Conclusions:
- While stigma persists, most PRS programs remain open to reapplicants.
- A preliminary surgical internship is the most recommended pathway, followed by a research fellowship.
- Success hinges on addressing deficiencies through clinical performance, research, and mentorship, requiring a personalized reapplication strategy.