Spectrum Health/Michigan State University Program

The Plastic Surgery Integrated Residency program at Spectrum Health, in partnership with Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, provides a unique training environment that emphasizes early and extensive operative experience alongside a robust didactic curriculum. The program boasts a strong foundation in research, both clinical and basic science, leading to numerous publications by residents and faculty. Residents benefit from high operative case volumes and a diverse didactic curriculum covering various plastic surgery specialties.

The faculty are renowned experts in plastic surgery, with a focus on innovation and education. The program follows a "priva-demic" model, blending academic and private practice exposure to prepare residents for a wide range of practice settings. Graduates achieve between 4,000 and 5,000 procedures as primary surgeon by the end of their training, with a 100% board pass rate.

Residents are exposed to a wide range of specialties, including hand surgery, microsurgery, trauma, burns, and pediatric plastic surgery. The curriculum includes weekly didactic sessions, microsurgical skills labs, and opportunities for research and publications. Notably, residents participate in a unique resident-run academic trauma and cosmetic service, enhancing their autonomy and practice management skills.

The program is committed to resident wellness and provides support for personal and professional development. The diverse group of residents stems from various medical schools across the United States, sharing a drive for academic excellence and a passion for plastic surgery. The collaborative environment at Spectrum Health fosters a supportive culture that prioritizes resident education and clinical experience.

Residents have the opportunity to rotate through different surgical facilities and gain insights into the business side of plastic surgery through private practice experiences. The program's strengths in early operative experience, diverse case exposure, and a balanced training model have led residents to secure prestigious fellowship positions post-graduation.

The Plastic Surgery Integrated Residency program at Spectrum Health and Michigan State University offers a comprehensive and innovative training model for aspiring plastic surgeons seeking a rigorous and rewarding educational experience.