The Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency at the University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham is a six-year program designed for medical students who are interested in specializing in plastic surgery. This program is competitive and highly sought after, with residency spots considered among the most coveted in the field. Residents are selected through the traditional Match process, which favors applicants with exemplary qualifications and training backgrounds.
Integrated residents will gain hands-on experience through rotations at several esteemed facilities, including UAB Hospital, UAB Hospital-Highlands, Birmingham VA Medical Center, Callahan, and Children's of Alabama. These diverse training sites provide residents with exposure to a broad spectrum of surgical disciplines.
Curriculum and Rotations
The residency curriculum encompasses an array of essential disciplines within plastic surgery. Residents will engage in rotations that cover:
- General reconstructive surgery
- Craniofacial surgery
- Aesthetic surgery
- Hand surgery
- Microvascular surgery
At Children’s of Alabama, residents will be involved in reconstructive procedures for traumatic and congenital defects, including complex cases such as craniofacial deformities, cleft lip and palate issues, and burn reconstruction.1
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) platform. It is important for applicants to verify any specific requirements related to graduation year, as well as any restrictions on maximum failed STEP exams.
Competitiveness and Applicant Profile
The program is recognized for its competitiveness, making it crucial for applicants to have strong academic records and relevant experience in surgical rotations. Typically, successful applicants may include distinguished graduates from both allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) medical schools. The program maintains a welcoming approach towards International Medical Graduates (IMGs), provided they meet specific eligibility criteria and possess valid clinical experience.
Visa Support
The program provides assistance with visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants. The types of visas available for sponsorship may include H-1B and J-1 visas, which facilitate participation in the residency program. Candidates should ascertain their eligibility for visa services during the application process.
Current Residents
The residency program hosts participants from a range of medical schools with diverse backgrounds. Current Integrated Residents include:
- Edgar Alvarado-Munoz, M.D. (PGY 3, McGovern Medical School)
- Cody Tyson, M.D. (PGY 3, Saint Louis University School of Medicine)
- Lauren Curwick, M.D. (PGY 2, Medical College of Wisconsin)
- Amanda Fang, M.D. (PGY 2, UAB)
- Andrew Grush, M.D. (PGY 1, Meharry Medical College)
- Gayle Wiesemann, M.D. (PGY 1, University of Florida)
This diverse group reflects the program's commitment to select candidates who are not only academically proficient but also exhibit a passion for plastic surgery and a commitment to serving a diverse patient population.2
Website
Director
Rene P Myers, MDProgram Director - Associate Professor of Surgery, Neurosurgery, and Otolaryngology Appointed Since June 2021 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
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Quality of Life
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Admission
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2024
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1 of 22020
1 of 1Location
Birmingham, AL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Birmingham, AL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Birmingham has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, but certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's advisable to research specific areas before choosing a residence.
- Fun Activities: The city offers a variety of cultural and outdoor activities, including museums, parks, restaurants, and live music venues.
- Climate: Birmingham has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity and occasional storms.
- Races and Population: Birmingham is a diverse city with a mix of races, ethnicities, and cultures. The population is around 200,000 people.
- Education: Birmingham is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for further education and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Birmingham is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Birmingham is within driving distance of major cities like Atlanta, Georgia (about 2.5 hours away), and Nashville, Tennessee (around 3 hours away).
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse culture, proximity to other cities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in some areas, hot and humid summers.
Interview Questions
