Cosmetic Dermatology Training During Residency: Outcomes of a Resident-Reported Survey.

Abstract

As the demand for cosmetic treatments increases, it is important for dermatology residents to be educated about and achieve proficiency in dermatologic cosmetic procedures. To assess dermatology residents' educational exposure to cosmetic dermatology. An anonymous 18-question survey was sent electronically to 1,266 dermatology residents requesting information about cosmetic dermatology training during residency. Two hundred sixty-eight residents responded to the survey (21% response rate). Most residents receive didactic instruction (94%) and hands-on training (91%) on cosmetic dermatology topics during residency. Survey participants in residency programs perceived as supportive of cosmetic dermatology training are more frequently provided lectures (70% vs 31%, p < .001) and procedural training (100% vs 69%, p < .001) in cosmetic dermatology as compared to residents in unsupportive programs. Eighty-nine percent of respondents reported hands-on training as the most effective method for developing proficiency in cosmetic procedures. Providing safe and competent patient care should serve as the impetus for expanding cosmetic dermatology education and training for residents.