University of Colorado School of Medicine Program

The Plastic Surgery Integrated Residency Program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine is a six-year program that has received initial accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program offers two positions per year, combining three years of general surgery training with three years focused specifically on plastic surgery. Residents undergo rigorous training designed to prepare them for a successful career in plastic surgery.

Curriculum Overview

The first three years of training are dedicated to general surgery, where residents rotate through various specialties including urology, trauma, breast surgery, vascular surgery, and more. Plastic surgery rotations commence in the first year, allowing residents early exposure to this specialty. In years four to six, residents engage in more specialized plastic surgery training, with rotations at various institutions such as Denver Health Medical Center and Children's Hospital Colorado. This multi-institutional approach enables residents to gain diverse clinical experiences across different patient populations and complex cases.1

Training Sites

Training occurs predominantly at several renowned institutions including Denver Health Medical Center, University of Colorado Hospital, and Children's Hospital Colorado. This exposure ensures that residents have comprehensive experiences in both general and plastic surgery contexts. Additionally, opportunities for surgical subspecialties, such as hand surgery and burn surgery, are provided during later years of training. Residents also participate in community cosmetic surgery practices to bridge clinical and practical skills.1

Research Opportunities

The program places a significant emphasis on research. Residents are required to complete a research project, ideally resulting in publication or presentation at notable medical meetings. Each resident must work closely with a faculty mentor to produce a document of publishable quality before graduation. The annual Plastic Surgery Research Symposium is a highlight, where residents present their findings before a panel of experts and have their work evaluated. This initiative fosters a culture of inquiry and emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice in plastic surgery.6

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program actively supports international applicants and is known to be friendly towards DO and IMG candidates. Eligible residents may receive sponsorship for H-1B or J-1 visa types, ensuring that international medical graduates can participate fully in the training program.2

Application Process and Criteria

Applicants must possess either a medical or osteopathic degree from a U.S. or Canadian institution accredited by the Liaison Committee for Medical Education (LCME) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), as required by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Applications are submitted through the National Resident Match Program (NRMP) using ERAS. Interviews are conducted selectively and by invitation only, where candidates are assessed based on their academic and clinical preparation for the rigors of the program.3

Unique Aspects of the Program

One key highlight of the program is its faculty, which consists of board-certified plastic surgeons dedicated to an educational environment that prioritizes the development of surgical skills and professional relationships. Furthermore, residents benefit from mentorship opportunities and a curriculum designed to instill the values of leadership and innovation in surgical practice.5

Conclusion

The training experience provided by the University of Colorado Plastic Surgery Integrated Residency Program is recognized for comprehensively equipping residents with the skills, knowledge, and expertise necessary for a successful career in plastic surgery. With its blend of rigorous clinical rotation, research opportunities, and supportive faculty, it stands out as a leading program for future plastic surgeons.