Old Dominion University Program

The Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University is a six-year ACGME-accredited program designed to train the next generation of leaders in the field of plastic surgery. This program emphasizes both academic excellence and practical experience, preparing residents for successful careers in either private practice or academic medicine.

Program Overview

The residency program facilitates comprehensive training through extensive rotations in various medical and surgical specialties. The first three years consist of general surgery and other foundational specialties, transitioning into a focused plastic surgery curriculum in the remaining years. This structure ensures that residents acquire broad medical knowledge and the ACGME Core Competencies.

Training Sites

The program includes multiple renowned training hospitals where residents rotate:

• Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: Home to a Level I trauma center and burn unit, it provides extensive experience in managing complex reconstructive surgical cases.
• Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters: The only freestanding children's hospital in Virginia, catering to the unique surgical needs of pediatric patients.
• Sentara Leigh Hospital: A contemporary care environment that provides a diverse range of surgical experiences.
• Naval Medical Center Portsmouth: A fully accredited facility offering an additional perspective on surgical education, including military medicine.

Curriculum Structure

The program's curriculum consists of:

• Years 1-3: Focus on foundational specialties including anesthesiology, general surgery, and several surgical sub-specialties, amounting to significant plastic surgery exposure during these years.
• Years 4-6: Dedicated to advanced plastic surgery techniques, including cosmetic surgery, hand surgery, and reconstructive surgery, culminating in roles with increasing responsibility and independence.

Research and Scholarship

Residents are encouraged to engage in academic research that contributes to the field of plastic surgery. The program's structure allows for the exploration of clinical research opportunities, and residents are expected to engage in scholarly activities throughout their training. The curriculum includes regular case presentations and journal clubs to foster a deep commitment to ongoing learning and scholarship.

Resident Support and Wellness

The program emphasizes the importance of a supportive and balanced residency experience, offering wellness resources similar to those available to faculty. The Resident Wellness program includes access to counseling services, support groups, and opportunities for leadership coaching, which enhances the overall well-being of residents during their training.

Application Requirements

The application process for the program is highly competitive. Candidates must submit applications via the Plastic Surgery Common Application (PSCA), including the following:

• USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores
• Three letters of recommendation
• Dean's letter and transcripts
• A personal statement outlining the candidate's interests and background

International applicants must possess J-1 visas and prior clinical experience in the U.S. In addition, candidates are encouraged to have a solid foundation in surgical practice and must demonstrate a commitment to achieving the competencies required for residency completion.

Visas and International Applicants

The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs), ensuring that all residents regardless of background can access rigorous training opportunities. The commitment to diversity is strong, aiming to create an educational environment enriched by different perspectives and experiences.

Competitive Landscape

This residency program is regarded as highly competitive. Candidates are evaluated based on academic performance, clinical rotation experiences, and the strength of their letters of recommendation. The program welcomes applications from both MD and DO graduates, emphasizing an inclusive approach toward interested candidates from diverse medical backgrounds.