Residency training in aesthetic surgery: maximizing the residents' experience

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Medical Education
• Media Studies

Background:

• Aesthetic surgery training is crucial for plastic surgery residents.
• Resident aesthetic clinics offer reduced-fee procedures.
• Television media can potentially increase patient engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of local television media coverage on patient recruitment for a plastic surgery residency aesthetic clinic.
• To assess the volume and diversity of cases generated through media outreach.
• To explore the benefits and risks of using media for not-for-profit aesthetic clinics.

Main Methods:

• A local television station produced a "health segment" featuring an aesthetic patient's experience.
• The broadcast led to telephone responses and subsequent patient seminars.
• Patient consultations were scheduled for those interested in procedures.

Main Results:

• Approximately 150 individuals responded to the broadcast.
• 121 patients (112 women, 9 men) pursued consultations.
• The generated cases were diverse, offering comprehensive training experiences.

Conclusions:

• Media coverage can effectively generate substantial patient volume for resident aesthetic clinics.
• There is a significant demand for reduced-fee plastic surgery procedures performed by residents.
• Engaging with media requires careful consideration of potential risks alongside benefits.