Plastic surgical education for the otolaryngologist

Otolaryngology shares responsibility for provision of plastic surgical services involving facial and cervical structures, but many training programs have been weak in this part of the specialty. Some still are. Beginning in 1963 when a national organization was formed, leading facial plastic surgeons and the senior author analyzed the weaknesses and embarked on a program to correct these educational deficits. There was widespread lack of surgical background, woefully inadequate knowledge of soft tissue techniques, and poor understanding of dynamics involved in cosmetic procedures. Annual meetings, international symposia, numerous courses, and extensive videotape and microfiche production, as well as political and academic recognition, have all helped plastic surgical teaching endeavors at both residency and postgraduate levels. However, much remains to be done. Program directors are the "key" people here. Suggestions for future action are presented.