Comparative Analysis of Plastic Surgery Training Programs: Spain, South Korea, and Japan

Abstract

This study analyzes and compares training programs in Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery in three countries: Spain, South Korea, and Japan. In common, they present a similar university training in medicine with a national qualifying exam, a supervision system during residency with the figure of a tutor, and an important role for training in microsurgery. As fundamental differences, Asian countries have a basic training period prior to the start of residency, in addition to a mandatory certification exam to obtain the specialist title. In addition, they give special importance to participation in conferences and the publication of scientific articles. In turn, Spain guarantees the training of its residents in the fields of hand surgery, burns and cosmetic surgery, in addition to offering more opportunities for international rotations.