My visit to the biggest plastic surgery conference

Being invited to speak at a conference is always an honor. But this was something else. This conference was the biggest conference I've ever seen. Quite the experience!

After my successful presentation for the Dutch society for plastic surgery I was contacted by the board of the society to also present at the 2019 conference of the American Society for Plastic Surgery in San Diego. An experience I was eager to participate in.

The 14-hour journey to San Diego had taken its toll when I arrived late Friday night. We had a little travels hostel down town, a mere 5-minute walk from the convention center. Ideal for a couple of PhD students.

We spent the following days participating in as much of the talk as we could. But with 10 simultaneous sessions it was hard to choose. But seeing the best of all fields of Plastic surgery was inspiring. My talk took place in a special session for internationals speakers in the central exhibit hall. Standing there with 10 other speakers from all over the world was an amazing experience.

But no conference would be complete without discovering what the city has to offer. And San Diego has lots: Amazing food, engaging nightlife, typical American breakfast and vast Pacific beaches. A fascinating city to spent a weekend. Sadly it was only a weekend and we left for Holland on Monday morning. Although we only had a weekend it felt like we were on the other end of the planet, which was very relaxing and a welcome break from our PhD life.

Finally, a special thanks to the board of the NVPC for nominating me and my presentation to speak at the 2019 ASPS conference.