Cosmetic Dermatology Training Exposure among Saudi Residents: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: For more than half a century, cosmetic dermatology has been an integral part of dermatology practice. Dermatologists perform more cosmetic procedures than any other specialty on the basis of data from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Therefore; it is essential that young dermatologists be educated about cosmetic procedures and achieve competency and proficiency in this area, to provide competent care. Aim of the study: This study aimed to assess the current state of cosmetic dermatology training in residency programs. Objectives: To assess the educational exposure of dermatology residents to cosmetic dermatology, to elicit their perceptions on the effect of various teaching strategies for developing procedural skills during their residency in SCFHS-accredited programs in Saudi Arabia, focusing on the residents experience and perspective. Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study was performed on Saudi Dermatology residents in Saudi Arabia at 2019. Permission was taken from Champlain et al. to use the questionnaire. An anonymous self-administrated questionnaire was used which included two parts: the first part inquired about demographic information and the second part inquired about cosmetic dermatology training during residency. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20. Results: Thirty six dermatology residents participated in this study with mean age (27.6 ± 1.9), 61.1% were female, 33.3% were in the 4th year and 22.2% were in the first year. Nearly 55.5% of the participants, their residency program were with more than 15 residents. 86% of them had formal lectures including laser, filler, sclerotherapy and chemical peels while 63% were only observer during different cosmetic procedures. Residents in the cosmetic dermatology program prefer more hands-on training (61%) versus lectures (25%) or assigned readings (11%). Conclusion: The residency training program in Saudi Arabia like many programs that provide hands-on cosmetic dermatologic training but there is still lack in the level of participation as a primary surgeon which needs more facilities in both devices and procedures.