Our Summary

This research project set up a mentoring program in plastic surgery for medical students at The Ohio State University. Over a year and a half, 31 students were paired with 10 plastic surgeons. The students attended clinical sessions, observed surgeries, and presented a case study to their peers and mentors. Surveys were given to the students to see how much they enjoyed and benefited from the program.

Of the students who completed the survey, most enjoyed observing surgeries and found it the most helpful in deciding their future career. All of them said they had more exposure to plastic surgery because of the program, and nearly all said they knew more about the field, were more likely to participate in plastic surgery activities, and thought their time in the program was well spent. Most of them also said they were more interested in plastic surgery research, would likely keep in touch with their mentors, and gained a lot from having a mentor who was a practicing plastic surgeon.

These results suggest that the mentoring program was beneficial in many ways, helping to form long-term relationships between the students and their mentors. The researchers believe this kind of program could be used as a model for similar programs in the early years of medical school.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the mentoring program in plastic surgery at The Ohio State University?
  2. What activities did the medical students participate in as part of the mentoring program?
  3. What were the key benefits for the students who participated in the mentoring program?

Doctor’s Tip

One tip a doctor might give a patient considering reconstructive surgery is to thoroughly research and choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in the specific type of surgery needed. It is important for the patient to feel comfortable and confident in their surgeon’s abilities to achieve the desired results. Additionally, the doctor may recommend discussing realistic expectations, potential risks and complications, and post-operative care with the surgeon before moving forward with the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended reconstructive surgery include those who have experienced traumatic injuries, congenital deformities, or have undergone cancer treatment. These patients may require reconstructive surgery to improve function, restore appearance, and enhance quality of life. Examples of patients who may benefit from reconstructive surgery include those with cleft lip and palate, breast cancer survivors seeking breast reconstruction, burn victims, and individuals with facial deformities.

Timeline

Before reconstructive surgery, a patient typically undergoes a consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure. They may also undergo medical evaluations and tests to ensure they are a good candidate for surgery. Once a treatment plan is established, the patient will schedule a surgery date and receive pre-operative instructions.

After reconstructive surgery, the patient will have a recovery period during which they will need to follow post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon. This may include taking medication, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding certain activities to promote healing. Over time, the patient will see improvements in their appearance and function as the surgical site heals and the final results of the procedure become more apparent. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon will continue to monitor the patient’s progress and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the reconstructive surgery I am considering?
  2. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. What are the realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery?
  4. Are there alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  5. How many times have you performed this particular type of reconstructive surgery?
  6. What credentials and experience do you have in performing reconstructive surgery?
  7. Can you provide before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone similar reconstructive procedures?
  8. What is the cost of the surgery and will my insurance cover any of the expenses?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  10. How long will the results of the surgery last and will I need any follow-up procedures in the future?

Reference

Authors: Dzubara B, Durisek G, Katta J, Min E, Bajestani N, Paras S, Ueno C. Journal: J Surg Educ. 2025 Jul;82(7):103520. doi: 10.1016/j.jsurg.2025.103520. Epub 2025 May 8. PMID: 40345022