Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in 252 Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons: Prevalences, ACE Clustering, and Effects on Adult Health and Behaviors, Including Self-Defined Depression, Work Addiction, and Burnout.

This article investigates the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States and their associations with adult health and behavioral outcomes. Using the 10-question CDC/Kaiser ACE survey, 252 plastic surgeons reported that 42% had at least one ACE, with emotional abuse occurring at twice the rate of the general medical patient population, while other ACEs were lower. Female surgeons reported higher rates of sexual abuse, physical neglect, and exposure to violence against their mothers compared to males. Total ACE scores significantly predicted 13 adult health issues and self-harming behaviors—including autoimmune disorders, depression, burnout, and addictions—in a dose-response manner, with specific ACE types correlating to particular outcomes. The study highlights the clustering of ACEs and their potential impact on surgeons’ well-being and professional performance, suggesting the importance of recognition and treatment within this population.