Innovatively Bridging Gaps in Aesthetic Surgery Training: Insights and Initiatives

Worldwide, studies have consistently pointed out deficiencies in aesthetic surgery training due to a lack of structured training programs. In India, residents lack confidence in cosmetic surgery procedures posttraining, primarily due to limited exposure to aesthetic surgery procedures in teaching hospitals.[1] A comparative survey of aesthetic training systems revealed that the combined theoretical and hands-on approach in System A (Brazil) resulted in higher self-confidence among junior plastic surgeons compared with the solely theoretical approach in System B (Italy).[2] Notably, Vissers et al[3] highlighted the contrast in plastic surgery training between the United Kingdom and Belgium, where Belgium's integrated aesthetic surgery training resulted in higher confidence levels; the UK's National Health Service lacked exposure to cosmetic surgery. A study in United States showed over half of residents felt least trained in aesthetic surgery, with 56.4% intending to seek additional training postresidency, especially those with more experience in specific subspecialties. However, there was increased confidence among residents, particularly Postgraduate Year-5 and Postgraduate Year-6, after participating in clinic rotations.[4] Residents in Europe are mandated to have aesthetic surgery exposure for board certification.[5] Residents in Canada showed an increasing number of aesthetic procedures performed as training progressed, with confidence levels rising throughout the residency period.[6]