International Fellowship in Rhinoplasty: An Immersive Learning Experience

When formal training meets the reality of rhinoplasty practice

Formal training in plastic surgery or otolaryngology provides the fundamentals, but rhinoplasty expertise requires an additional step. Between the end of formal training and the development of an autonomous rhinoplasty practice, there is a gap that can only be bridged through prolonged exposure to a complete range of cases and dedicated mentorship.

The International Fellowship in Rhinoplasty is designed specifically for this critical transition: transforming general surgical skills into a consolidated rhinoplasty expertise by a complete immersion in real clinical practice.

Beyond observation: active participation in the complete patient journey

This fellowship is not an observational experience. The fellow takes an active role in every phase of the patient journey:

Preoperative consultation:
analysis of the individual anatomy, discussion of the patient’s goals, detailed surgical planning.

Direct surgical assistance:
presence in the operating room as an active observer. The Fellow will scrub-in together with the rotating Resident. This involvement provides an understanding of technical nuances that no video can fully convey.

Postoperative follow-up:
following the evolution of outcomes over time is essential. Seeing how different cases heal, what complications may emerge, and how to manage them is a fundamental component of real surgical learning.

Scientific contribution:
the fellowship includes designing and completing at least one clinical or research project to be submitted for publication. One-two days per week are protected specifically for this work.

The complete spectrum of contemporary rhinoplasty

Exposure during the fellowship covers the entire panorama of contemporary rhinoplasty: currently around 200 cases are performed per year.

From aesthetic to functional rhinoplasty, the Fellow observes and assists in the management of diverse nasal deformities, learning to recognize which technical approaches best adapt to specific anatomies. This includes Structural, Preservation, and Hybrid techniques, including the crooked and post-traumatic nose.

The caseload regularly includes secondary rhinoplasty cases of variable complexity. These usually include finesse rib grafting, composite grafts and other specific techniques.

The fellowship's objective

By the end of the Fellowship , the Fellow should have acquired appropriate and sufficient experience to establish an independent rhinoplasty practice in his/her country of origin.

The commitment required

This fellowship represents an extraordinary opportunity, but requires significant commitment:

Duration

The preferred duration is one full year. Six months are possible, but obviously represent a condensed version of the full experience. From the experience of previous Fellows, many drew great advantage from the six months option.

Financial considerations

The fellowship does not include any salary or other funding. Its value lies entirely in the educational experience offered.

Research and Publishing

The completion and submission of at least one clinical or research project is mandatory. This requires discipline, time management ability, and dedication beyond direct surgical assistance.

Language proficiency

Excellent command of English is essential. Knowledge of Italian is obviously welcome.

Intensity

A year or six months immersion in a high-volume rhinoplasty practice is an intense experience. The learning curve can be steep, particularly during the early phases. The value emerges from this intensity: accelerated repetition creates consolidated competence.

Obligations

The Fellow must obviously have and demonstrate the necessary commitment.

The usual operating schedule is three days a week, plus postop dressings and patient care. This often means late hours. Progressively during the fellowship, it will be also possible for the fellow to attend first consultations with Dr Robotti.

The Fellow is thus expected to play an active role, together with the Resident and the Dr Robotti-s Assistants in the full spectrum of patient management.

Application process

Please note

The position has been filled until September 2026. Applications will be considered for a start following such date.

How to apply for the fellowship:

  1. Submit application: Use the dedicated form, providing detailed information about training, current experience, and specific motivations for this fellowship.
  2. Personal review: Dr. Robotti personally examines every application. Given the one-to-one nature of the program, selection is necessarily rigorous.
  3. Direct contact: Selected candidates are contacted directly for an in-depth discussion of the program, clarification of mutual expectations, and a possible interview.
Application Fellowship