In this episode of Our Voices, Our Future, we sit down with Dr. Ilana Zago, a second-year plastic surgery resident at Loma Linda University, to explore her journey into surgery and the realities of training in a high-pressure, traditionally male-dominated field.

During this episode, we talk about Dr. Zago’s path from health education to plastic surgery, the challenges and hurdles she has faced as a surgical resident, and how those experiences have shaped her professional identity. We discuss wellness and work-life integration in residency, the importance of finding and using your voice as a woman in surgery, and the critical role mentorship plays in navigating medical training. Dr. Zago also shares advice for aspiring surgeons, especially young women, who are considering a career in surgery and wondering if they belong.

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