"Bridging the Gap: Trends in Minority Representation Among Trainees in Plastic Surgery"

As the U.S. grows more diverse, equitable representation in medicine is vital for addressing health disparities and improving outcomes. This study evaluates demographic trends among plastic surgery trainees and compares them to peer specialties.

Applicant and trainee demographics in plastic surgery from 2017-2023 were obtained from AAMC's ERAS Statistics and GME Track databases. Trends were compared to orthopedic surgery, otolaryngology, general surgery, internal medicine, and family medicine. Analyses included chi-square tests, two-proportion z-tests, and linear regression.

Female applicants to plastic surgery increased from 32.3% in 2017 to 48.3% in 2023 (2.7% annual growth, p<0.0001) with a slower associated rise in female residents (42.0% to 50.9%, 1.5% annual growth, p=0.0001). Comparable growth rates were seen in otolaryngology and general sugery, however plastic surgery surpassed orthopedic surgery, family medicine, and internal medicine in the rate of increase in female applicants and residents (p<0.05). Black applicants to plastic surgery remained stable (5.3% to 6.7%, p=0.22), while Black residents increased (2.4% to 3.8%, p=0.001), with similar trends across all specialties. The proportion of Hispanic applicants rose significantly (8.0% to 13.5%, p<0.0001), yet Hispanic residents declined (6.1% to 4.0%, p=0.06). Similar patterns were observed in both surgical and nonsurgical specialties, though the magnitude of increase in applications into plastic surgery was higher (p<0.02, all comparisons).

Gender parity has been achieved among plastic surgery residents, reflecting successful diversity efforts. However, underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic residents persists despite increased applicant interest. These disparities, mirrored in peer fields, highlight enduring structural barriers.