Loma Linda University ยท Department of Plastic Surgery

Advancing plastic & reconstructive surgery through rigorous academic research

The Plastic Surgery Research Consortium, directed by Dr. Subhas Gupta, gives medical students and trainees a structured path from literature review to peer-reviewed publication — working alongside a fellowship-trained academic surgeon.

2
Active Studies
8
Stage Research Pipeline
Weekly
Mentorship Meetings
Dr. Subhas Gupta, Director of Research, Department of Plastic Surgery, Loma Linda University
Dr. Subhas Gupta MD, CM, PhD, FRCSC, FACS · Director of Research
Why This Consortium

Built for students who want a real research apprenticeship

Every project moves through the same disciplined process — from literature review to submission — so trainees learn methodology, not just tasks.

Structured methodology

Every project is tracked through eight defined phases — literature review, protocol development, IRB submission, data collection, analysis, drafting, abstract, and publication — so students see the full academic lifecycle.

Direct surgeon mentorship

Weekly meetings with Dr. Gupta and the research fellow cover active project review, action items, and dedicated guidance on residency applications — not a hands-off lab.

Open to LLU and beyond

Structured onboarding — CITI training, EMR/volunteer credentialing — means motivated students outside Loma Linda can join, not just those already on campus.

Focus Areas

Where our research lives

Current work spans clinical trial design and translational/narrative review, with particular strength in hand and wrist soft tissue reconstruction and perioperative outcomes.

1

Clinical outcomes & trials

Prospective studies evaluating perioperative protocols and patient-reported outcomes in reconstructive and aesthetic procedures.

2

Hand & wrist reconstruction

Soft tissue reconstruction technique, complication patterns, and functional recovery — Dr. Gupta’s core surgical specialty.

3

Translational & narrative reviews

Literature synthesis on emerging pharmacologic and biomaterial approaches relevant to reconstructive and dermatologic practice.

See current project abstracts →
Dr. Subhas Gupta in the operating room

“The goal of this consortium is simple — give every student a real seat at the table, from the first literature search to the paper with their name on it.”

Dr. Subhas Gupta, Director of Research

Ready to start your research journey?

Review the application requirements and onboarding steps, then send your materials — we review on a rolling basis.