The Plastic Surgery Residency program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, under the Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, provides residents with a comprehensive training experience that encompasses a wide variety of plastic surgery subspecialties. These include aesthetic surgery, breast reconstruction, cleft lip and palate surgery, craniofacial and maxillofacial surgery, extremity reconstruction, facial trauma, gender-affirming surgery, hand surgery, head and neck reconstruction, microsurgery, nonsurgical aesthetics, and ophthalmic plastic surgery. Throughout the training duration, residents are expected to participate in approximately 2,000 surgical procedures, ensuring they acquire substantial hands-on experience in their field 1.
The residency is structured as a six-year integrated program. The first three years emphasize core surgical rotations alongside essential plastic and hand surgery training, with about 17 months dedicated specifically to these areas. Strongly recommended rotations include anesthesia, dermatology, otorhinolaryngology, orthopedics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and oculoplastic surgery. Additionally, core rotations encompass a diverse array of surgical fields including breast and oncological surgery, abdominal and alimentary surgeries, pediatric, vascular, cardiothoracic, transplant, minimally invasive, and trauma and critical care surgery 1.
Clinical Training Sites
Residents receive clinical training through rotations at five key training sites, including NYU Langone’s Tisch Hospital and Kimmel Pavilion, NYU Langone Hospital—Brooklyn, NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island, and NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, along with the Manhattan campus of the VA NY Harbor Healthcare System. These settings allow for extensive exposure, as surgeons complete an average of 25 to 30 procedures each day, accompanied by an inpatient census of about 50 to 75 1.
Educational Structure
The program showcases a robust educational framework that encompasses formal conferences, lectures delivered by faculty and visiting professors, journal clubs, and additional learning opportunities through specialized courses and symposia. One of the program's highlights is the annual microsurgery course tailored for incoming PGY-4 residents, complemented by a yearly flap course that integrates practical dissections 1. Recently, a new cadaver education tissue lab was established at the Joan and Joel Smilow Research Center, providing advanced dissection technology to better prepare residents for surgical challenges 1.
Research Opportunities
All residents are encouraged to engage in clinical and basic science research. Facilities are fully equipped for studies in diverse areas such as composite tissue allotransplantation, microsurgery, wound healing, craniofacial growth and development, computer imaging, and fat grafting, fostering an environment of academic inquiry and innovation 1.
Application Process
The residency program accepts applications exclusively through the Plastic Surgery Common Application and participates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). The program typically offers five residency positions each year, with in-person interviews scheduled for January 1. Candidates are expected to have completed prerequisite medical training at an ACGME-accredited institution and to fulfill eligibility requirements set by the ACGME and the American Board of Plastic Surgery 1.
Visa Support
The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Participants can be sponsored for J-1 or H-1B visa types, which facilitate residency training for foreign nationals 1.
Competitiveness
The NYU Grossman School of Medicine Plastic Surgery Residency program is recognized for its rigorous selection process, making it highly competitive. It welcomes applicants from various medical backgrounds, including MD and DO graduates, and is supportive of international medical graduates (IMGs) 1.
Special Application Requirements
Applicants should meet specific prerequisites concerning their year of graduation and exam performances. Notably, some applicants may be allowed a limited number of failed Step examinations, reflecting the program's inclusive approach to diverse medical training backgrounds 1.
Housing and Compensation
NYU Grossman School of Medicine provides subsidized housing for residents, especially for those relocating from outside the region. Compensation is structured to account for the high cost of living in New York City, ensuring that residents can find accommodations that suit their needs 1.
Website
- 1 .Plastic Surgery Residency | NYU Langone Health
- 2 .Plastic Surgery Continuing Medical Education | NYU Langone Health
- 3 .Plastic Surgery Fellowship Programs | NYU Langone Health
- 4 .Department of Plastic Surgery Education | NYU Langone Health
- 5 .Plastic Surgery Observer Program | NYU Langone Health
- 6 .Plastic Surgery Training for Medical Students | NYU Langone Health
Director
Vishal Thanik, MDProgram Director of Plastic Surgery Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,903First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
8.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
New York, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in New York, NY
- Crime Rate and Safety: New York City has improved its safety over the years, but like any big city, it does have some crime. However, most areas where medical residents live and work are considered safe.
- Fun Activities: New York City is a hub of culture, entertainment, and dining. From Broadway shows to world-class museums and iconic landmarks like Central Park and the Statue of Liberty, there's always something to do.
- Climate: New York City experiences all four seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures.
- Races and Population: New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with a large population of various races and ethnicities.
- Education: New York City is home to prestigious universities and medical centers, offering ample opportunities for learning and networking.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in New York City is high, particularly for housing. Medical residents may need to budget carefully to afford living in the city.
- Nearby Cities: Other major cities like Philadelphia and Boston are within a few hours' drive of New York City. Philadelphia is about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car, while Boston is around 3.5 to 4 hours away.
- Pros: Diverse culture, countless entertainment options, easy access to top medical facilities.
- Cons: High cost of living, crowded and fast-paced environment.
Interview Questions
