PRS Match Celebration!
Garnes Society Members: Be Featured in Our PRS Match Celebration!
The Garnes Society is proud to celebrate our members who matched into Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery this year! Your hard work and dedication deserve recognition. If you're a Garnes Society member who matched, complete the form to share your Match details, including your medical school, matched institution, and a short personal quote. Your story will be featured on our website and social media to inspire future applicants and highlight our growing network of PRS professionals.
What to Do If You Don't Match
Didn’t Match Into PRS? We’re Here to Help. Navigating Match Week without securing a spot can be challenging, but it’s not the end of your journey. The Arthur L. Garnes Society offers guidance and resources to help you explore next steps, strengthen your application, and stay on track for a career in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Access support to tailor your goals.
Helpful Links for Your Match Journey
The residency application process can be complex, but the right resources can make all the difference. Whether you’re navigating Match Week, preparing for interviews, or planning your next steps, these organizations provide expert guidance, mentorship, and official residency match information to support you along the way.
Surgeon Spotlight: Celebrating Leading Plastic Surgeons
Match 2025
Not matching into a competitive specialty like plastic surgery is disappointing, but it does not define your future. Many successful surgeons faced this challenge before finding the right path. Here’s how to regroup, strategize, and take decisive action.
Self-Care | PRIORITIZE YOUR WELL-BEING
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Pause and process: It’s okay to feel disappointed. Take time to acknowledge your emotions.
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You’re not alone: Many applicants in competitive specialties go unmatched on their first attempt.
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Self-compassion matters: This outcome is not a reflection of your worth or potential.
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Lean on your support system: Friends, family, mentors, and even online communities can provide perspective and encouragement.
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Take care of yourself: Engage in activities that help you recharge, whether it’s exercise, meditation, or creative outlets.
Introspection | REASSESS & STRATEGIZE
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Clarify your goals: Are you committed to reapplying for plastic surgery, or would you consider an alternative specialty?
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Consider alternative routes:
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Preliminary Surgery Year – Gain experience in general surgery while strengthening your application.
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Research Fellowships – Many plastic surgery programs offer research fellowships that improve your competitiveness.
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Transitional or Alternative Specialties – Fields like general surgery, ENT, dermatology, and orthopedic surgery may still align with your interests.
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Seek feedback: Contact program directors and mentors to understand what you can improve.
Take Action | REPOSITION YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS
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SOAP & Unfilled Positions:
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If you’re eligible, explore open spots through the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP).
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Look into unfilled categorical or preliminary general surgery positions.
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Strengthen Your Profile for the Next Cycle:
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Pursue research opportunities in plastic surgery to boost your CV.
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Network with faculty and residents—mentorship and connections can open unexpected doors.
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Consider an additional clinical year in a related surgical field.
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Connect with Unmatched Peers:
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Many students navigate this experience together—lean on each other for support and strategy-sharing.
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Maximize Your Medical School’s Resources:
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Many institutions offer unmatched graduates mentorship, mock interviews, and application workshops to help with reapplying.
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Stay involved in academic and research projects that enhance your reapplication.
Long-Term Options | EXPLORE PATHWAYS BACK INTO PLASTIC SURGERY
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If your goal is still plastic surgery, persistence and strategic planning are key. Consider:
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International Training – Some applicants explore training opportunities abroad before reapplying.
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Military Medicine – The military offers pathways to train in plastic surgery, often with competitive funding.
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Integrated vs. Independent Pathways – If you don’t match into an integrated program, consider completing a general surgery residency and then applying for an independent plastic surgery residency.
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