The International Residents Forum | Global Partner Webinar Series-The International Residents Forum

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar, hosted by Jing Teh of the ASPS International Resident Forum (IRF), highlighted resources and opportunities for international plastic surgery residents, emphasizing global collaboration, education, and mentorship. Key initiatives include access to the PRS journal, ASPS Education Network, and the new Propel mentorship program connecting international residents with senior U.S. surgeons.<br /><br />Dr. Fong Nguyen discussed navigating U.S. plastic surgery training paths—integrated six-year programs post-medical school or independent paths requiring prior general surgery residency. He explained USMLE exam requirements, visa types (J-1, H1B, O-1), and the competitive fellowship matching process. Success factors include high Step 2 scores, research productivity (especially for international medical graduates), strong letters of recommendation, and mentorship both within and outside one's institution. He emphasized networking, observerships, and leveraging professional social media for visibility.<br /><br />Dr. Horacio Meyer addressed breast augmentation with implants, focusing on implant selection and surgical approaches factoring in anatomy, patient expectations, and cultural differences. He reviewed implant types, projections, shapes, textures (including the benefits and U.S. ban of polyurethane implants), and surgical planes. Important surgical considerations include avoiding complications like double bubble or animation deformities, using capsular flaps as ADM alternatives, and customizing approaches based on individual anatomy and goals. He also noted advances in 3D imaging for planning and cultural sensitivity, highlighting differences in implant size preferences across regions.<br /><br />The session included extensive Q&A covering licensure, fellowship pathways, mentorship roles, research impact, clinical experience importance, and postoperative considerations. Overall, the webinar provided valuable guidance for international trainees aspiring to U.S. plastic surgery training and insights into contemporary breast augmentation practices with cultural and technical nuance.

Keywords

International plastic surgery residents

ASPS International Resident Forum

PRS journal access

ASPS Education Network

Propel mentorship program

U.S. plastic surgery training paths

USMLE exam requirements

Visa types for medical training

Fellowship matching process

Breast augmentation implants

Surgical approaches in breast augmentation

Implant types and considerations

3D imaging in surgery planning

Cultural sensitivity in plastic surgery