Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Jacksonville) Program

The Plastic Surgery Integrated Residency at Mayo Clinic's campus in Jacksonville, Florida, is a comprehensive program dedicated to producing future leaders in the field. With a strong emphasis on mentorship and an environment conducive to independent surgical practice, the program aims to develop proficient plastic surgeons capable of addressing various subspecialties within plastic surgery.

This six-year residency follows a 2+4 structure, integrating plastic surgery training from the beginning, allowing residents to gain experience in a wide range of surgical specialties closely related to plastic surgery. The program includes more than 12 months of dedicated plastic surgery rotations in the first three years, supplemented by in-depth training in areas such as aesthetic surgery, hand surgery, and craniofacial surgery during the latter years of training. Residents are immediately exposed to plastic surgery in their first year with three dedicated months in the field, enabling them to embark on their surgical journey without delay 1.

Program Highlights

This residency is noteworthy for several reasons:

• It is the only plastic surgery training program in the Jacksonville metropolitan area, which has a population of around 1.9 million.
• The program features a high faculty-to-resident ratio, ensuring personalized attention and guidance.
• Residents gain access to a hands-on microsurgery skills lab, emphasizing advanced training in surgical anatomy at the state-of-the-art J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Simulation Center.
• There is an embedded fellowship opportunity during the PGY-6 year, allowing residents to focus on a subspecialty area of their choice.
• Residents participate in on-site training for minimally invasive aesthetic treatments and operate a Chief Resident Aesthetic Clinic.

In the course of training, residents are expected to participate actively in research, with dedicated time for scholarly activities in the third year, leading to peer-reviewed publications and presentations 1

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum encompasses diverse clinical experiences, offering training in all aspects of plastic surgery. Areas of focus include:

• Acute trauma
• Burn treatment
• Gender affirmation surgery
• Microsurgery
• Reconstructive surgery
• Cosmetic surgery

The comprehensive nature of the training allows residents not only to learn plastic surgery techniques but also to delve into related surgical disciplines such as dermatology and otolaryngology, enhancing their capabilities as future plastic surgeons 3.

Didactic Conferences

In addition to clinical training, residents participate in regular didactic conferences covering critical surgical topics and evidence-based practices. Conferences include:

• Plastic Surgery Grand Rounds (weekly)
• Preoperative Conferences (weekly)
• Morbidity and Mortality Conferences (monthly, held jointly with other Mayo branches)

Such participation is crucial for building a collaborative environment where residents can learn from each other's experiences 5.

Resident Life and Support

The residency program prioritizes the well-being of its residents. Mayo Clinic provides extensive resources for promoting physical and mental wellness. Programs include:

• Access to fitness centers and wellness programs
• Mayo Employee Resource Groups (MERGs) encouraging diversity and inclusion
• Mentorship programs for residents from underrepresented backgrounds in medicine

The support extends beyond professional development, aiming for a holistic approach to residency training 8.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The program is competitive, admitting one position annually. Applicants must graduate from medical school and pass Step 1 of the USMLE before enrollment. The application process begins in July each year, and candidates must submit their applications by October 1 for consideration in the National Resident Matching Program 2.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the program provides visa sponsorship options, catering to those who require a J-1 or H-1B visa to participate in the residency.

Overall, the program's structured curriculum, comprehensive clinical training, and a supportive environment make it a highly competitive option for medical graduates aspiring to specialize in plastic surgery.