Medical students generally lack awareness of the breadth of plastic and reconstructive surgery; at times their knowledge is on par with individuals who have never studied medicine (1-4). Often students have a skewed perception of plastic surgery, which may be attributable to media portrayal of and limited exposure to the specialty (5-8). A robust understanding of plastic surgery, or lack thereof, influences an undergraduate's decision to pursue a career in plastic surgery (9-11). Potentially excellent applicants may be deterred from plastic surgery due to negative impressions, whereas others may apply for training positions on the basis of unrealistic expectations. Expanding undergraduate awareness and knowledge of plastic surgery promotes informed decision-making, as well as a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a plastic surgeon within a healthcare system (10, 12-14).

Medical students, who have developed a marked interest in plastic surgery, may try to learn and gain exposure to the speciality in their own time. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impaired the medical undergraduate’s learning experience, precluding face-to-face teaching and clinical placements. As a result alternative arrangements, largely in the form of online events and seminars, are required to feed the curiosity of budding plastic surgeons.

Course participants will be asked complete pre- and post-course questionnaires and examinations, as part of a research study to assess the success of the Broadening Horizons course and to help delegates observe their own progress.

Further information: 
Please contact: blplasticsurgerysoc@yahoo.com