Fertile Ground in the OR: Rewriting the Narrative on Family in Plastic Surgery Training

This editorial discusses the possibility of family life and plastic surgery residency successfully coexisting when training programs intentionally foster supportive cultures, flexible policies, and equitable parental leave. Drawing on personal experiences from a highly family-friendly program, together with emerging literature on pregnancy, parenthood, childcare, and career advancement in surgery, we challenge the notion that residents must choose between surgical excellence and family life. Some practical strategies, including shared workload, flexible scheduling, lactation support, peer mentorship, childcare assistance, and visible role models, may help address the barriers that resident parents face while supporting professional development and personal well-being. Ultimately, we contend that programs supporting residents' family goals strengthen the specialty by promoting wellness, inclusivity, and long-term retention, particularly of women in academic plastic surgery.