It is specifically designed to provide surgeons the rare opportunity to concentrate solely on research for a full year. The fellowships cover twelve months of salary support for the surgeon researcher, who is required to provide proof of other funding support to cover the logistical aspects of the research. Sponsors of named fellowships may choose to designate an area of study they wish to support, or leave the fellowship open to all areas of applicant interest. The PSEF continues to support the development of new technologies for disseminating information to plastic surgeons. A contribution for a named endowment would fund an annual research and development grant to refine and adapt new technology to plastic surgery programs or could be used to endow an existing project.
Visits are for three to six months.
In addition to expanding their knowledge and skills, the sharing of information learned upon their return to their home country allows this program to have even greater impact. Visiting scholars are also required to report on their experiences, and these reports are published in Plastic Surgery News . One award is presented in the aesthetic category and one in reconstructive procedures. The interest will be used to defray production costs for those surgeons selected to produce the tapes and are also a way of recognizing excellence. Additional topics for awards tapes may also be established.