The Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery fellowship is a one-year training program, established in 1998 and certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. It offers a broad exposure to both aesthetic and reconstructive surgery for graduates of an accredited head and neck residency. During the course of the year, the fellow participates in approximately 300 facial aesthetic surgeries, 80 major head and neck microvascular reconstructions, and 80 Mohs reconstructions. The fellow has opportunities to work with experts in dermatology and oculoplastics depending on his or her interest. Scientific research opportunities are abundant as is writing for publication. Teaching opportunities with the residents both inside and outside the operating room are encouraged throughout the year.
Generally, independence increases as the year progresses. Typically, the fellow is at UCLA from Monday to Wednesday and involved with major head and neck reconstruction, Mohs reconstruction, and some aesthetic surgery. On Thursday and Friday the fellow is in Santa Barbara focusing on aesthetic surgery. The fellow has the opportunity in the latter portion of the year to staff cases for the residents at the affiliated UCLA hospitals and the VA. In addition, the fellow does an increasing number of his or her own aesthetic cases in the latter half of the year.
The goals of the program are to develop a surgeon capable and confident in the decision-making, planning, surgical management, and follow-up of a wide variety of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery patients. In addition, the fellow must complete a research paper to be presented at the AAFPRS meeting, and complete the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery fellowship exam at the end of the fellowship year.
Interested applicants must have completed a head and neck surgery residency and should apply through AAFPRS (American Association of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery) 18 months in advance of the July 1st start date.
For additional information regarding the fellowship, contact Co-Directors Keith Blackwell, MD at (310) 206-4725 or Gregory Keller, MD at (805) 687-6408.
