Broward Health Program

Plastic Surgery Residency Program Overview

The Broward Health Plastic Surgery Residency aims to enhance the training of plastic surgeons through a structured program that emphasizes ethical, effective, and safe practices. It maintains rigorous standards for education, evaluation, and the successful ongoing certification of residents as specialists in plastic surgery. This independent, three-year residency program is accredited by the ACGME and accepts one resident each year, collaborating closely with three residents from the Cleveland Clinic Florida, which allows for a diverse training environment with a total of six residents at the affiliated rotation sites.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training, split between Broward Health facilities and the Cleveland Clinic Florida. This dual exposure enables residents to engage in a variety of practices, enhancing their learning experience in various aspects of plastic surgery. At Cleveland Clinic Florida, residents have the opportunity to encounter private practice settings, pediatric surgery, burn surgery, and cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

At Broward Health, which comprises the largest hospital district in the nation with a busy Level One trauma facility, residents receive exposure to complex reconstructive surgeries, including microsurgery, breast reconstruction, hand surgery, and elective cosmetic procedures. A full didactic curriculum complements the practical experiences, allowing residents to prepare thoroughly for qualifying exams and ensuring they become competent and effective plastic surgeons.

Geographic and Cultural Advantages

The Fort Lauderdale/Miami area provides residents with access to a vibrant cultural and recreational environment, being a well-known tropical destination. Additionally, easy access to transportation options like high-speed rails enhances residents' ability to explore the region. This promotes a balanced lifestyle amidst rigorous training.

Applicant Prerequisites and Application Process

To be considered for the program, applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in general surgery, neurological surgery, orthopaedic surgery, otolaryngology, thoracic surgery, urology, or vascular surgery. Alternatively, those holding a medical degree and having completed an approved residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery, along with at least two years in a general surgery residency, are also eligible.
Application processing is conducted through the San Francisco Residency and Fellowship Matching Services (SF Match), and interviews are extended by invitation only, taking place virtually.

Special Rotation Opportunities for Medical Students

The division of plastic surgery at Broward Health offers a four-week surgical rotation tailored for fourth-year medical students. This interactive experience allows students to engage in all facets of patient care under faculty supervision while being involved in weekly didactic sessions and monthly journal clubs. The curriculum is structured to ensure that students gain core competencies aligned with ACGME standards.

Visa Support

The program is committed to supporting international medical graduates by offering various visa sponsorship options. Eligibility includes H-1B or J-1 visa sponsorship for candidates, ensuring that necessary documentation and resources are provided to assist applicants in navigating the visa process.

Competitiveness and Application Standards

The program is regarded as highly competitive, thus requiring not only exemplary academic performances but also strong recommendations and relevant experiences from applicants. Potential candidates should be mindful of academic timelines, as applicants are typically expected to have graduated from medical school within a specified time frame, and there may be guidelines concerning the number of failed board examinations. Such prerequisites are essential for maintaining the excellence and integrity of the program.