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Perceptions of LGBT Members in Plastic Surgery
John H. Pang, Jordan Fishman, Francesco M. Egro, Xiao Zhu, Joseph E. Losee, Vu T. Nguyen
UPMC
2019-02-13
Presenter: Xiao Zhu
Affidavit:
I certify that the material proposed for presentation in this abstract has not been published in any scientific journal or previously presented at a major meeting. The program director is responsible for making a statement within the confines of the box below specific to how much of the work on this project represents the original work of the resident. All authors/submitters of each abstract should discuss this with their respective program director for accurate submission of information as well as the program director's approval for inclusion of his/her electronic signature.
Director Name: Vu T. Nguyen
Author Category: Resident Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
Background: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) plastic surgeons (trainees/faculty) may face academic and/or social forces to hide aspects of their personal life and conform to gender normative behaviors. We sought to understand the presence and effect of this pressure within the academic plastic surgery community.
Methods: An online survey was distributed to all plastic surgeons (trainees/faculty) from ACGME-accredited programs. Demographics, sexual orientation, and comfort level within their environment were collected. Respondents were also asked to assess their program's openness towards LGBT members.
Results: Of 385 total responses, 8% identified as LGB. Of the LGB, 73% are trainees, of which 95% are open to some/all residents whereas only 88% are open to some/all attendings. 36% of LGB trainees reported concealing their sexual orientation. Only 4% of LGB trainees disclosed their sexual orientation during interviews, of those that did not, 24% were concerned that disclosure would risk acceptance. 13% were advised by mentors not to disclose their LGB status during interviews. While most LGB trainees (93%) felt comfortable bringing their significant other (SO) to events with residents, less felt comfortable doing so with attendings (86%) or formal events (79%). 13% of LGB faculty feel uncomfortable bringing their SO to department events.
Conclusion: The results are positive and suggest that modern attitudes have changed significantly. However, a percentage of LGB residents remain uncomfortable bringing their partner to work functions, and belief that disclosure of sexual orientation may hamper acceptance remains. This speaks to the need for further discussion within the plastic surgery community.
