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Confronting Leaky Pipelines: Diversity in Plastic Surgery

  • Diversity in the Surgical Profession (S Pitt, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Although plastic surgeons treat a variety of patient populations, the specialty continues to struggle to reflect the diversity of the individuals we treat. In this review, we will discuss the continued racial and gender disparities within plastic surgery. Additionally, we aim to introduce other underrepresented groups in plastic surgery, such as LGBT+surgeons and surgeons from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Recent Findings

Beyond recognizing the diversity problem within plastic surgery, institutions are beginning to enact change to address this issue. We specifically highlight institutions who have intentionally aimed recruitment efforts at underrepresented trainees, created innovative applicant evaluations, and provided other support to encourage diversity. We additionally provide suggestions to improve recruitment and retention of underrepresented identities in plastic surgery.

Summary

There continues to be underrepresentation of women, physicians of color, LGBT+physicians, and physicians from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in plastic surgery. Many organizations have recognized this issue and began to implement interventions to improve diversity of their faculty and trainees. There continues to be evolving understanding of disparities in the workforce in plastic surgery and interventions to improve diversity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, 1500 E Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48019, USA

    Megan Lane, Erika D. Sears & Jennifer F. Waljee

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  1. Megan Lane
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  2. Erika D. Sears
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  3. Jennifer F. Waljee
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Correspondence to Jennifer F. Waljee.

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Lane, M., Sears, E.D. & Waljee, J.F. Confronting Leaky Pipelines: Diversity in Plastic Surgery. Curr Surg Rep 10, 63–69 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40137-022-00308-x

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