Indiana University School of Medicine Program

The Plastic Surgery Residency program at Indiana University School of Medicine offers an integrated six-year residency and a three-year independent fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery. This comprehensive program is tailored to provide a robust educational and clinical experience, preparing residents to meet and exceed the ACGME requirements for case log numbers while engaging in research opportunities during their training.

As one of the largest plastic surgery programs in the United States, the program encompasses a diverse range of training locations, including eight training sites and three Level-1 trauma centers. This structure not only supports adult and pediatric certified burn centers but also includes community-based rotations focused on cosmetic surgery. The faculty comprises surgeons with advanced fellowship training and substantial experience in various plastic surgery disciplines such as craniofacial, critical care, microsurgery, and hand surgery.

Application Details

The program accepts two residents per year into the six-year integrated residency through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS) and/or the Plastic Surgery Common Application (PSCA). Applications from Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) must include an ECFMG Certificate acquired at least 60 days before the residency starts and should not exceed two years removed from medical education. Notably, the program is dedicated to sponsoring J1 visas exclusively for international applicants, ensuring a streamlined process.

Global Health Opportunities

As part of the residency, plastic surgery residents are afforded an immersive global surgery experience through a four-week rotation at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya. This exchange program emphasizes teaching and delivers surgical care within resource-limited environments. The rotation is designed to enhance clinical skills while providing exposure to unique surgical challenges. Residents collaborate with Kenyan surgeons and participate in educational conferences, significantly enriching their residency experience.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Located in the vibrant city of Indianapolis, home to Indiana University Indianapolis, the program fosters a thriving environment for learning. Most training sites are within walking distance, supporting easy access to educational resources. Each resident enjoys four weeks of vacation time and receives financial support for national meeting presentations, reflecting the high value placed on academic engagement.

Clinical Rotations

The curriculum comprises a variety of rotations, including anesthesiology, cosmetic surgery, craniofacial surgery, pediatric surgery, trauma, and hand surgery, among others. Each rotation is meticulously designed to provide comprehensive exposure across various specialties, facilitating a well-rounded training experience that prepares residents for the complexities of surgical practice.

Life in Indianapolis

Indianapolis has a population of nearly one million, characterized by its blend of urban excitement and Midwestern charm. The city is enriched with a diverse cultural scene, world-class sporting events, and substantial educational resources, making it an appealing and supportive environment for residents. The low cost of living paired with an inviting community further enhances the overall residency experience at Indiana University School of Medicine.

Competitive Landscape

The program maintains a highly competitive selection process due to its comprehensive training capabilities and broad case exposure. While it is esteemed among general candidates, it actively encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including osteopathic (DO) graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), fostering an inclusive educational landscape.

Current Residents

The residency program comprises a robust cohort of current residents, each from various medical schools, enhancing the collaborative and diverse learning atmosphere within the program. This diversity enriches discussions, clinical practices, and the overall educational experience, preparing residents to excel in their future careers.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The program is committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community, promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion throughout all operational facets. This commitment enhances the program’s strength by embracing diverse perspectives and experiences.

Research Opportunities

Engagement in research is encouraged throughout the residency period, providing residents with opportunities to contribute to innovative surgical techniques, comprehensive literature reviews, and case studies that advance the field of plastic surgery.