Balancing scalpel and family life: Gender gaps in a European cohort of plastic surgeons
Cai A, Kim BS, Mayer JM, Giovanoli P, Müller-Seubert W, Flöthmann K (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Journal
DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2026.05.045
Abstract
Background Although the number of female plastic surgeons is increasing, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions and continue to face challenges in balancing family life with career progression. Studies investigating this topic mostly originate from the U.S., whereas data from European countries are sparse. Therefore, a survey was conducted to analyze gender-based differences in the perception of compatibility between academic career in plastic surgery and family life in a European cohort. Methods An online survey was distributed across European plastic surgery societies and academic centers. The questionnaire collected demographic and professional information, and data regarding parental leave, childcare, financial support, and perceptions of discrimination. Results A total of 456 respondents from 18 European countries participated (54.4% female). Male surgeons were more likely to hold higher academic and clinical positions (p < 0.001). Female surgeons assumed a greater share of childcare responsibilities (p < 0.001) and more frequently reported that parenthood impacted their career and they feared discrimination owing to family planning (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that permission to work part-time and open communication with superiors regarding family planning were the strongest predictors of perceiving parenthood as being compatible with an academic career (p = 0.004 and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions Gender disparities persist among European plastic surgeons, particularly in the interaction between career advancement and parenthood. Flexibility in working hours and a workplace culture that encourages transparent communication around family planning appear critical for improving gender equality in academic plastic surgery.
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Switzerland (CH)How to cite
APA:
Cai, A., Kim, B.S., Mayer, J.M., Giovanoli, P., Müller-Seubert, W., & Flöthmann, K. (2026). Balancing scalpel and family life: Gender gaps in a European cohort of plastic surgeons. Journal of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2026.05.045
MLA:
Cai, A., et al. "Balancing scalpel and family life: Gender gaps in a European cohort of plastic surgeons." Journal of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (2026).
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