Resident training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery is comprehensive; hands-on experience in cosmetic and reconstructive aspects is supplemented by didactic lectures given by the Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery faculty. Exposure to cosmetic procedures is extensive, as over 100 rhinoplasties are performed per year, as well as many blepharoplasties, endoscopic brow lifts and facelifts. Common minimally invasive techniques include injection of Botox® and facial fillers. Residents also have the opportunity to perform aesthetic laser procedures such as hair removal, treatment of veins and irregular pigmentation, and skin resurfacing. We have an aesthetic minor surgery suite, photography suite and an aesthetic staff. The reconstructive experience is likewise broad and comprehensive. The in-depth training experience in maxillofacial trauma includes endoscopic fracture repair techniques. Trauma call alternates on a daily basis with Plastic Surgery. State-of-the-art trauma care is provided at our Level I center and residents have ample opportunities to attend the annual plating workshop. The Head and Neck Reconstruction Team performs 70 to 80 microvascular free flaps annually in addition to a large number of local and regional flap procedures for minor and major head and neck defects. Experience in local flap reconstruction of Mohs defects is extensive as is experience in facial reanimation and microtia repair. A microvascular animal laboratory is available for resident training in microvascular techniques. Both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures are performed at VAMC, KUMC and at KU MedWest Ambulatory Surgery Center. The VAMC experience offers additional exposure to facial reconstruction.

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