A new study conducted by the European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (ESPRAS) has revealed a significant shift in career preferences among Generation Z surgeons, with many opting for private aesthetic medicine over reconstructive surgery.
This trend, spanning both Europe and the United States, raises concerns about workforce shortages in public healthcare and the future of reconstructive plastic surgery.
The generational shift in surgery
Gen Z, defined as those born between 1997 and 2012, has been instrumental in modernising surgical practices through digital innovation, including virtual reality simulations and AI-driven diagnostics.
However, the study found that Gen Z surgeons are prioritising work-life balance, reduced working hours and less hierarchical mentorship structures.
This preference is driving them away from traditional reconstructive roles, which often demand long, unpredictable hours in hospital settings, and toward the more lucrative and flexible field of aesthetic medicine.
Key findings from the ESPRAS study
The study surveyed past and present leaders of major plastic surgery societies in Europe and the US, uncovering the following trends:
- Increased interest in aesthetic surgery: Many Gen Z surgeons prefer working in private aesthetic medicine over reconstructive surgery, citing better financial rewards and work-life balance.
- Decline in hierarchical mentorship: Younger surgeons are moving towards egalitarian mentorship structures rather than traditional, rigid hierarchies.
- Concerns over trauma response: The shift away from hospital-based reconstructive surgery could lead to staffing shortages, potentially impacting trauma care and emergency response capabilities.
- Emphasis on digital learning: Gen Z is embracing digital platforms for education, replacing traditional hands-on mentorship with simulation-based training.
The future of surgical training and healthcare
While some experts worry that the shift could create a crisis in reconstructive surgery, others see this as an opportunity to modernise the field.
ESPRAS president Mark Henley emphasised the need for systemic changes to retain talent in public healthcare.
“What Gen Z has shown us is that it’s time to overhaul the surgical landscape with a focus on balance and the wellbeing of our workforce,” says Henley. “If we can address these growing needs, we are more likely to avoid losing talented surgeons to the aesthetics sector.”
Balancing aesthetic and reconstructive surgery
To prevent a critical shortage in reconstructive plastic surgeons, the study suggests reforms such as:
- Better work-life balance initiatives: Implementing structured hours and wellness programs for hospital-based surgeons.
- Enhanced training and mentorship: Combining digital learning with traditional hands-on experience to retain essential skills.
- Public-private collaboration: Encouraging partnerships between hospitals and private aesthetic clinics to create hybrid career paths for surgeons.
What this means for the future
The increasing allure of aesthetic medicine is reshaping the plastic surgery landscape. If healthcare systems fail to adapt, reconstructive surgery could face significant shortages in the coming years.
However, by modernising training structures and addressing work-life balance concerns, the industry can work towards a sustainable future for both fields.
