Integrated Plastic Surgery Match Trends After Step 1 Pass/Fail Implementation: Data Analysis and Literature Review

Integrated plastic surgery (IPS) programs are competitive. The conversion of Step 1 to pass/fail has altered the landscape for how applications are evaluated, leaving uncertainties for prospective applicants. This analysis identifies valuable applicant factors through trends from recent match cycles and the literature.

A cross-sectional study of National Residency Matching Program data from 2020 to 2024 was performed. Aspects of IPS applications were compared among matched and unmatched seniors with a medical degree, osteopathic medicine degree, and international medical graduates. A literature review using the PubMed database was performed.

The number of IPS positions available and applications submitted have increased proportionally, resulting in a stable ratio from 2020 to 2024. The average Step 2 score of matched applicants differed only by a single point before and after the transition of Step 1 to pass/fail. Applicants with more publications and presentations, Alpha Omega Alpha honors, and degrees from a medical school designated with the highest National Institutes of Health funding had higher match success. Subjective factors identified as important included away rotations, interviews, and letters of recommendation.

IPS remains competitive with applicants outnumbering available positions. Step 2 scores are an important objective measure; however, the average score of matched individuals has not increased since the elimination of Step 1 scores. Additional important aspects weighed by program directors are research publications and presentations, strong letters of recommendation, good performance on away rotations, and high-quality interviews.