Evaluating the Utility and Impact of Canadian Plastic Surgery Residency Programs’ Instagram Accounts on Resident Recruitment and Engagement

<b>Introduction:</b> This study assesses how Canadian Plastic Surgery Residency Instagram accounts are utilized and perceived by residents, fellows, and attending physicians, and evaluates their influence on medical students' residency program selection. <b>Methods:</b> This 2-part study includes: (1) a descriptive analysis of Instagram activity, content, and engagement, along with a national survey of Canadian plastic surgery residents, fellows, and attendings assessing account utility; and (2) a survey of medical students who attended the University of Toronto Plastic Surgery Residency Information Session, evaluating Instagram's influence on residency selection. Descriptive statistics were reported. <b>Results:</b> Twelve of 13 Canadian Plastic Surgery Residency Programs had active Instagram accounts. Canadian Plastic Surgery Residency Instagram accounts had an average of 119 posts (SD = 94) over 5 years (SD = 2). Among surveyed residents (<i>N</i> = 27/77, 35%) and fellows/attendings (<i>N</i> = 83/328, 25%), Instagram use was reported by 93% and 81%, respectively. Resident recruitment ranked as the top goal (residents 1.75, fellows/attendings 3.17), followed by achievement highlights. Most residents (80%) and fellows/attendings (53%) felt medical students benefitted most. Preferred content included program culture (85%, 84%), resident profiles (90%, 73%), and research highlights (70%, 70%). Among medical student respondents (<i>N</i> = 25/112, 22%), 95% followed Canadian programs on Instagram, seeking program culture, resident profiles, and educational opportunities (all 89%). Over half (56%) said Instagram influenced their perception of a program, with all reporting a positive impact. <b>Conclusion:</b> Instagram is a valuable platform for Canadian Plastic Surgery Residency Programs to share insights and influence medical student decision-making.