Program Overview

Overview of the USF Plastic Surgery Residency Program

The USF Health Plastic Surgery Residency is a six-year, fully integrated training program, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) for four positions annually. The program's goal is to train independent plastic surgeons who are competent practitioners, excel in their field and communities, and are eligible and qualified to become Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The program provides a core surgery experience tailored to offer graduated responsibility for patient care and technical expertise for a broad range of surgical disciplines. A significant experience on plastic surgery services and plastic-surgery-related services is provided throughout all six years of the program. The curriculum is designed to provide a diverse and comprehensive clinical, operative, and research experience.

Clinical Experience and Training

Residents receive exposure to multiple specialized hospitals, clinics, and surgery centers, including:

• Tampa General Hospital, a Level 1 trauma center, providing education in facial trauma, burn and hand injuries, as well as massive weight loss surgery and microsurgery.
• The H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, a nationally recognized cancer center with Plastic Surgery specialization in oncologic procedures and reconstructions associated with many types of cancers.
• The James Haley Veteran's Hospital, offering a unique experience with a specialized spinal cord unit and extensive rehabilitation program.
• The Bay Pines Veteran's Hospital, focusing on cutaneous oncology and wound care, with a productive wound healing lab.
• All Children's Hospital, multiple surgery centers, and private practice offices, providing exposure to community practice.

Academic Pursuits and Research Opportunities

One of the program's goals is to encourage and foster academic pursuits. There are numerous opportunities for mentored clinical and basic science projects. Residents are supported in endeavors to submit and present abstracts and research at both regional and national meetings. Funds for educational activities are available to support residents, including textbooks, online resources, and regional
ational Plastic Surgery Conferences. Residents attend a Basic Maxillofacial Trauma Course, a Flap Course, and a Microsurgery Training Course throughout their six years.

Program Accreditation and Certification

The USF Health Plastic Surgery Residency program fulfills all of the ACGME's Resident Review Committee (RRC) requirements for residency training. Medical school graduates begin plastic surgery training at the PGY-1 level, with increased exposure and responsibilities with each academic year. The program is designed to provide a well-balanced view of the practice of both academic and clinical Plastic Surgery.