The FRCS Plastic Surgery Part 2 Exam is widely recognised as one of the most challenging components of the certification process. It's not enough to know the theory—you need to demonstrate that you can think and act like a consultant.
FRCS Guide Summary Card
- Tip 1: Get to the Point—Fast
Quickly identify the key issue and demonstrate decisive judgment. - Tip 2: Use the Correct Vocabulary
Confident language is key. Use “I will” instead of “I would” and avoid speculation. - Tip 3: Listen
Pause, listen carefully to the examiner, and reflect before answering to avoid mistakes. - Tip 4: Higher-Order Thinking
Think beyond immediate management—anticipate complications, long-term outcomes, and rehabilitation.
Bonus Tip: Check out these oral exam scenarios.
Our new Oral Exams feature has real FRCS scenarios. Perfect for getting those last-minute reps in. Get ready to ace the exam.
Tip 1: Get to the Point—Fast in your FRCS Part 2 exam.
Quickly identify and address the core issue in the case. Show that you can make decisive, consultant-level judgments without getting bogged down in unnecessary details.
In the FRCS Plastic Surgery Part 2 Exam, you’ll often be given a scenario with limited information. The key is to identify the critical issue and address it promptly. Instead of getting bogged down in unnecessary details, demonstrate your ability to prioritise.
Be Efficient in Your Answer
Always focus on the primary concern and avoid unnecessary details. When presented with a scenario, quickly identify the most pressing issue.
When presented with a melanoma histology, don’t waste time asking basic questions. Say:
"In addition to performing a wide local excision with 2 cm margins, I would confirm sentinel lymph node biopsy to assess metastasis risk based on Breslow depth, considering any patient-specific contraindications."
This direct approach shows the examiner that you understand the primary concern and are ready to take action.
Use Conditional Statements in Ambiguous Scenarios
In cases where you’re given limited information, it's important to show that you can adapt while maintaining a decisive approach. Conditional statements allow you to offer a tailored plan while acknowledging potential uncertainties.
"In a fit patient without contraindications, I would proceed with free flap reconstruction."
This demonstrates to the examiner that you can make well-reasoned decisions even with incomplete data, signaling your flexibility and clinical judgment.
Focus on Immediate Priorities in Complex Cases
When dealing with complex cases like hand trauma, avoid listing every basic protocol. Show that you can prioritize and manage the key issues first.
"My immediate priority is to assess neurovascular integrity of the lower limb. Once vascularity if confirmed, I would then proceed..."
This approach demonstrates your ability to focus on the critical concerns and handle complex cases efficiently, rather than getting lost in unnecessary details.
Always Anticipate Next Steps in the Oral Exam
Once you’ve addressed the immediate concern, it’s crucial to show that you're considering the patient's long-term management. This demonstrates your ability to plan beyond the initial intervention.
"Following imaging, I would consult with the patient about the options for tendon repair and rehabilitation, depending on the severity of the injury."
This approach signals to the examiner that you’re not just solving the current problem, but also thinking ahead about the patient’s recovery and future care.
Tip 2: Use the Correct Vocabulary in your FRCS answers.
Confident, assertive language shows you’re ready to take ownership of the case. Avoid speculative phrases, and use decisive language to demonstrate consultant-level thinking.
The way you speak in the viva reflects your readiness to be a consultant. Confident, assertive language demonstrates that you’re in control of the situation. Avoid speculative language and use decisive phrases like “I will” instead of “I would.”
Why Vocabulary Matters in FRCS
Confident language reflects your preparedness for consultant-level responsibilities. When you say “I will” instead of “I would,” you show that you are ready to take ownership of the case. Avoid using language like "might" or "could."Clearly communicate your plan with confidence. Avoid hesitation, and show that you have a structured approach in mind.
In a challenging case, demonstrate clear decision-making and consideration of patient outcomes. Instead of just stating the basics, say:
"I will assess the defect and, based on tissue viability and blood supply, I will opt for a local rotational flap to provide optimal coverage and preserve function. Additionally, I will ensure minimal tension on the closure to reduce complications such as wound dehiscence."
This approach not only shows your ability to manage the case confidently but also highlights your attention to preventing postoperative complications and improving patient outcomes.
Decisive and Prepared in Uncertain Situations
In the FRCS Plastic Surgery Oral Exam, demonstrating confidence and preparedness, even when information is limited, is crucial. Show that you can act decisively and anticipate potential complications.
In a case of high-grade sarcoma, demonstrate clear oncological planning and consideration of post-treatment outcomes. Instead of a generic response, say:
"I will perform an en bloc resection with a 3 cm margin to ensure clear oncological boundaries. Post-operatively, I will follow up with adjuvant radiotherapy to reduce recurrence risk."
This approach not only shows your decisive surgical planning but also highlights your focus on comprehensive, long-term patient care.
Tip 3: Listen to your FRCS Oral Examiners
Pause, listen, and reflect on both the examiner’s question and your internal thought process before answering. This helps you provide more structured, relevant responses.
One of the most common mistakes candidates make in the FRCS Plastic Surgery Oral Exam is misinterpreting the examiner's question. Listening is an active skill—it's not just about hearing the words but understanding the intent behind them. Take a moment to process the question fully before responding, and avoid jumping to a pre-rehearsed answer.
Listen Carefully and Tailor Your Response
Examiners want to see that you're truly engaging with the specific scenario they present, not just giving a rehearsed, one-size-fits-all answer. Take a moment to process the question fully before responding.
Consider a scenario where the examiner asks, "How would you manage this patient?" It’s crucial to recognize the distinction between managing a specific patient versus managing a condition. If you jump into discussing the general treatment protocol, you might miss key elements of the individual case. Instead, pause and say:
"For this specific patient, given their medical history and current condition, I would first stabilize them and then proceed with debridement, tailored to their comorbidities."
This shows you’ve listened carefully and adapted your approach to the specific scenario, not just the general disease management.
Pause for 2 Seconds Before Responding
Develop the habit of pausing for 2–3 seconds after the examiner finishes speaking. This brief pause allows you to digest the question fully and structure your response, ensuring you address the examiner’s specific concerns.
When faced with an open-ended question like "What’s your next step?" don’t rush. Instead, pause and then say:
"I will first evaluate the viability of the surrounding tissues to determine whether a local or regional flap is most appropriate."
This pause and measured response shows that you’re carefully considering the best course of action.
Tip 4: Demonstrate Higher-Order Thinking in your FRCS viva exam.
Think beyond the immediate management and consider long-term outcomes, complications, and rehabilitation when discussing your treatment plan.
The FRCS Plastic Surgery Oral Exam is designed to test whether you can think beyond immediate management. You need to show that you can anticipate complications and long-term outcomes, especially in complex cases.
Avoid Over-Simplification
Many candidates make the mistake of offering simple, one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, focus on real-world complexities—discuss how you’ll manage potential complications, surgical challenges, and long-term rehabilitation.
In a case requiring replantation, don’t just stop at vascular repair. Instead, say:
"In addition to vascular repair, I will focus on early mobilization and coordinate with the physiotherapy team to ensure functional recovery."
This shows that you are considering not just the surgery but the entire rehabilitation process.
Preempt Complications
In complex cases, especially those with high complication risks, it’s essential to show the examiner that you’re thinking proactively. Anticipating complications and planning ahead demonstrates comprehensive, consultant-level care.
"Given the facial location of this reconstruction, I will carefully monitor for infection and wound dehiscence, ensuring early intervention if necessary to prevent further surgical procedures."
By showing that you’re thinking through these steps, you reassure the examiner that you can anticipate, recognize, and manage potential complications in real-time.
Always Incorporate a Rehabilitation Plan
Examiners expect you to think beyond the immediate surgical procedure and consider the patient’s long-term recovery. Including a clear rehabilitation plan shows that you’re focused on holistic care and the best possible outcomes.
"Following surgery, I will implement an early rehabilitation program to optimize range of motion and minimize scarring."
This demonstrates that you understand the importance of recovery in achieving optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes for your patients.
The FRCS Plastic Surgery Oral/Viva Exam is your chance to demonstrate that you’re ready to step into the role of a consultant. By getting to the point quickly, using confident language, listening carefully, and showcasing higher-order thinking, you can stand out as a top candidate. Approach each case with these strategies, and you’ll be well on your way to acing the FRCS Plastic Surgery Part 2 Exam.
