Frequently asked

Questions surgeons
ask first.

Short answers to the questions that come up most when planning plastic surgery fellowship training.

About fellowships

What is a plastic surgery fellowship?

A period of focused training after residency or specialist training, usually in a subspecialty such as microsurgery, craniofacial, hand, breast, aesthetic or burn surgery. Fellowships vary from salaried clinical posts to research appointments and short observerships.

How long does a plastic surgery fellowship last?

Duration depends on the appointment and host. Compare the stated start and end dates, rotations, leave and any extension arrangements. Each PlasticFellow profile records published duration information and identifies details that need confirmation.

What is the difference between a fellowship and an observership?

A clinical fellowship normally includes defined clinical duties and supervised operating, which usually requires local registration. An observership provides structured observation without independent patient care. Read our guide on clinical fellowships versus observerships for detail.

International applicants

Can international surgeons do hands-on fellowships?

Sometimes. It depends on the country's registration rules, the hospital's credentialing and your visa category. Many programmes offer observation or research roles to international visitors and reserve operative roles for registered fellows. PlasticFellow labels hands-on participation as unconfirmed when an official source does not state it.

Do I need to pass local exams?

Requirements differ by country and programme. Some require national licensing examinations or certification, others offer limited or training licences. Always check the national medical regulator and the programme's own eligibility page.

Which countries welcome international plastic surgery fellows?

Many centres in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America accept international fellows in some form. Use the country and pathway filters in the directory and check each profile's international applicant field.

Funding and applications

Are plastic surgery fellowships paid?

Funding is programme-specific: an appointment may involve salary, a stipend, restricted grant support, fees or self-funding. Check the written terms, currency and costs you must cover. PlasticFellow records funding evidence from official sources and labels missing information.

When should I apply?

Use the current official application or Match calendar for your intended start year. Work backwards from its deadlines and allow for references, credential checks, registration and immigration requirements. A past deadline or a contact address does not establish that recruitment is open.

Does PlasticFellow accept applications?

No. PlasticFellow is an independent directory. Apply through the official source linked from each profile.

About the directory

How are programmes verified?

Every profile links to an official institution, hospital, university or society source. Only information supported by that source is recorded, and each profile shows the date it was last reviewed. See the editorial policy for the full method.

Can programmes pay to be listed?

No. Standard programme listings, directory order and editorial conclusions cannot be purchased. Separate advertising or sponsorship may be discussed through our partnerships page and must be clearly labelled; it does not establish programme endorsement.

How do I report an error?

Use the Suggest a correction form with a link to an official source that supports the change.

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