The Cost of Matching into Plastic Surgery

Integrated plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) is extremely competitive to match into as a medical student. Applicants looking to distinguish themselves from their peers invest heavily in dedicated research year(s), multiple away rotations, and conference attendance. Previous studies exist assessing the costs of each of these components individually, but there has yet to be a comprehensive analysis of the financial toxicity of becoming a competitive PRS applicant. The authors reviewed the literature regarding the cumulative costs associated with away rotations, research fellowships, conference attendance, publication fees, residency applications, and interview travel. Significant costs were identified. The average applicant is likely to submit 85 applications, complete 12 to 13 interviews, complete 2 to 3 away rotations, publish at least once, and attend at least 2 PRS conferences. Our estimation for the costs associated is $27,138 without a research year and $69,438 with a research year. This is likely an underestimation as there are many costs we are unable to generalize exact costs for, such as gas, parking, emergency funds, variations with methods of transport, lodging, etc. In conclusion, the financial investment associated with becoming a successful applicant with an average chance of matching is unattainable for many without external supplementation. These costs are considered necessary to gain experience and connections within the field, but exacerbate existing disparities and limit access to the field. Additional efforts must be made to improve accessibility and limit the financial barriers for PRS applicants, such as subsidized travel, virtual interview options, and broad structural reforms within the match process.