By Dr. Mohammad Banki, AACS Facial Fellowship and Membership Committee Chair
As Dr. Suzan Obagi so eloquently put in her article published in The Consult this past spring, resident members are a critical part of the future of AACS. Since March, there has been an effort to grow the AACS Resident Member roster. 81 applications have been received thus far. Now it is time to carry on Dr. Richard Webster’s ideal, “to teach all who desire to learn and a willingness to learn from all who desire to share and teach.”
For those members transitioning out of residency and eager to get hands-on training, AACS certified Fellowship Programs will help develop their skills and confidence in performing aesthetic procedures. Throughout 2020, we’ve held multiple events to help residents learn more about AACS certified Fellowships. On November 12, a panel of Program Directors and Fellows discussed their personal fellowship experience and fielded questions from the audience. This was a unique opportunity for those exploring a career in cosmetic surgery as it offered a chance to ask questions before the February Match Deadline. 62 residents registered for the event. We are planning more of these type of events in the future.
For those who want to learn more about AACS’s Fellowship Programs and how to start a career in cosmetic surgery, on January 16, 2021, Dr. Suzan Obagi will moderate the 2021 Resident Forum. Topics will range from handling difficult patients to an overview of key procedures and board certification. We’ll also discuss the goals of the new Resident Committee. The program will conclude with a Q&A session with AACS President Dr. Mandell-Brown. The event is free to AACS Resident members – register now.
As numerous surgical residency programs nationwide have disbanded their scheduled didactic education sessions in response to COVID-19, AACS Resident members can participate in the monthly Fellowship Core Curriculum Review lectures. This peer-to-peer teaching forum not only outlines key concepts of different cosmetic procedures, but it also highlights complications and their managements. This lecture series serves as a great introductory course to aesthetic surgery of face, breast, and body. Email Margaret Bengtson at moc.puorg-icm@nostgneb.teragram to sign up for the next session.
As part of the new Resident Committee, we have Resident Member Committee Liaisons who will engage in dialogue and interact with practicing members. This will help Resident members learn more about AACS and the cosmetic surgery specialty. They can also start developing important relationships that will help guide them in their future endeavors. Their voice will also assist different committees in the decisions that are made.
AACS supports cosmetic surgeons in all phases of their careers. Engaging our Resident members now and as they transition into practice will only strengthen the future of the organization.
Start your career in cosmetic surgery! Register now for the 2021 Resident Forum on January 16.