Back to 2025 Abstracts
Predictors of Match Success for Reapplicants in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Insights from Program Directors
Christian X. Lava
*, Peaches A. Dozier, Stephen Baker
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington,
Background: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (PRS) is among the most competitive specialties, with up to 45% going unmatched annually. While extensive research exists on first-time PRS applicants, data on reapplicants remain limited. This study examines PRS Program Directors' (PD) perceptions of reapplicants, preferred pathways, and key factors influencing reapplication success.
Methods: A 12-question survey was distributed to PRS PDs via the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons from November 2024 to February 2025. The survey assessed perceived stigma toward reapplicants, recommended reapplication strategies, and barriers to matching.
Results: A total of 25 (28.5%) PDs completed the survey. Of these, 21 (84.0%) acknowledged stigma toward reapplicants, while 20 (80.0%) reported offering interviews at least "sometimes." PDs who recognized stigma were not significantly more likely to offer interviews than those who did not (45.5% vs. 33.3%; p=0.593). The most favored pathways were a preliminary surgical internship (n=17, 54%) and research fellowship (n=11, 22%). The top three factors for reapplicant success included excelling in clinical rotations (n=11, 22.0%), conducting new research (n=9, 18.0%), and rotating in the target department (n=7, 14.0%;
Figure 1). The greatest barriers were lack of resume improvement (n=11, 22.0%), poor interview performance (n=8, 16.0%), and weak letters of recommendation (n=8, 16.0%). Additionally, 11 (44.0%) PDs reported that geographic location of prior training had "not at all" an influence on interview offers, while 5 (20.0%) indicated "a little" influence, and 8 (32.0%) cited "a moderate" influence.
Discussion: While stigma exists, most PRS programs still consider reapplicants. The most recommended pathway for reapplicants was a preliminary surgical internship, followed by a research fellowship. PDs emphasized clinical excellence, research productivity, and mentorship as key factors for success. Ultimately, reapplicants must take strategic a strategic, individualized approach to address weaknesses.
