Ep13 The training pathway to become a plastic surgeon

Becoming a plastic surgeon in Australia involves years of preparation, strategic choices, and a deep understanding of the training pathway. 

Dr Ed Riordan is a final year plastic surgery registrar at Prince of Wales Hospital, having spent the last 5 years as an accredited trainee in both public and private hospitals in Sydney. He has spent the last 2 years as the trainee representative on the Australian Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. 

Ed reflects on the process, from internship through to unaccredited registrar years and finally into accredited training. He offers his insights on how to build a competitive application, including the importance of clinical experience, research, references, and interview readiness. Ed discusses the shift to a competency-based training model, the role of rural experience, and the challenges of balancing family life with long hours. 

Please note, the views and information shared reflect the personal perspectives of Dr. Ed Riordan and may not represent every individual experience. 

Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons 
www.plasticsurgery.org.au 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.