University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago Program

The Plastic Surgery Residency program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago is designed to train residents to become proficient in all areas of plastic, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgery. The program aims to maintain the highest ethical, social, and professional standards while providing a comprehensive educational experience.

Program Mission

The mission of the Division of Plastic, Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgery is to ensure that residents receive extensive clinical and theoretical knowledge, thus equipping them with skills essential for independent practice in plastic surgery. The program emphasizes compassionate care, multidisciplinary teamwork, and an environment fostering education and research 1.

Curriculum Structure

Implemented since July 2023, the residency's curriculum spans six years (72 months) and is structured to support residents as they develop along the ACGME Core Competencies. It begins as the resident identifies as a physician, evolves through surgical training, and culminates with them serving as surgical leaders competent in autonomous practice by the sixth year 2.

Clinical Program

The clinical program features a blend of rotations across various surgical specialties. In the junior years (PGY 1-3), residents spend approximately 18 months in general surgery, 25% of their time in related fields, and the remainder on plastic surgery services. Senior years (PGY 4-6) are fully dedicated to plastic surgery rotations, ensuring extensive operative experience 2.

Residents are involved in diverse patient care roles in multiple settings, including inpatient hospital care, emergency departments, outpatient clinics, and private practices with an emphasis on surgical responsibilities 2.

Didactic Curriculum

The program includes a comprehensive didactic curriculum featuring weekly conferences, journal clubs, and hands-on simulation sessions that enhance the residents' learning experiences. Residents participate in presentations and discussions covering key topics in plastic surgery in addition to engaging in peer-reviewed quality improvement (M&M) sessions twice yearly 2.

Research Opportunities

Participation in clinical research is strongly encouraged. Each resident is expected to complete at least one clinical/research project annually, collaborating closely with faculty members who facilitate research endeavors, leading to an active publication record 2.

Training Sites

The program offers training in various specialty facilities, including:

• University of Illinois Hospital - A Level 2 trauma center providing primary surgical experiences in areas such as adult and pediatric plastic surgery, microvascular reconstruction, and craniofacial surgery.
• Mount Sinai Hospital - A Level 1 trauma center with services catering to general adult plastic surgeries and microvascular reconstruction.
• Oak Park Hospital - Focused on pediatric plastic surgery, offering experiences with cleft and craniofacial surgeries.
• The University of Chicago Medical Center - A quaternary care institution featuring an ACS/ABA-certified burn center 1.

Application Process

The program has competitive admissions, emphasizing strong academic and clinical backgrounds. Candidates must have completed a Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Osteopathy degree in the United States or hold an equivalent degree with an ECFMG certificate. Applicants are expected to have a documented research project resulting in either a podium presentation or publication, along with strong letters of recommendation demonstrating effective communication and teamwork abilities 1.

Visa Support

The residency program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs) through suitable visa types, which may include the J-1 visa, known for its use among foreign medical graduates participating in U.S. residency programs 1.

Resident Life

Living in Chicago offers a rich cultural experience for residents. The program emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between rigorous training and personal well-being while supporting the development of professional networks among peers and faculty within and outside the hospital settings 1.