For nearly eight decades, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® has been one of the most influential voices in the field. With the appointment of Dr. Samuel J. Lin as Editor-in-Chief, the journal enters a bold new chapter.
Dr. Samuel Lin, Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon — Lin Plastic Surgery, Boston, MA.
For nearly eight decades, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® has been one of the most influential voices in the field of plastic surgery. As the flagship academic journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the publication has helped shape the trajectory of both reconstructive and aesthetic innovation, publishing groundbreaking research that informs surgical practice across the globe.
In 2026, the Journal enters a new chapter in its storied history. With the appointment of a new Editor-in-Chief and the introduction of an expanded leadership structure, the publication is positioning itself to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape of medical research and digital publishing.
At the center of this milestone is the appointment of Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA as the eighth Editor-in-Chief in the history of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®. A respected surgeon, researcher, and educator, Dr. Lin brings decades of experience in academic medicine and clinical innovation to the role.
Dr. Lin has long been deeply involved with the journal's editorial process. Having served on the editorial board since 2014, he has reviewed nearly 1,100 manuscripts and contributed extensively to advancing plastic surgery scholarship. In addition to his editorial experience, he has authored more than 300 peer-reviewed publications.
Under Dr. Lin's leadership, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® aims to further strengthen its role as a global leader in surgical scholarship. The journal will continue prioritizing high-quality research, clinical innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Equally important is the journal's commitment to embracing the changing landscape of scientific communication. Advances in technology, digital publishing platforms, and data sharing are reshaping how research is disseminated and accessed.
Alongside the appointment of a new Editor-in-Chief, the journal is introducing an updated leadership framework designed to support the future of medical publishing. Justin Sacks, MD, MBA has been named Managing Director of the broader journal portfolio associated with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Academic journals play a crucial role in shaping the direction of modern medicine. The research published within its pages often informs surgical techniques, clinical guidelines, and educational training programs used by surgeons worldwide.
For both reconstructive and aesthetic surgeons, the journal provides a platform for sharing innovations that improve patient outcomes and expand the possibilities of surgical care.
Since its founding in 1946, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® has chronicled many of the most important milestones in the specialty. Over the decades, the journal has documented the development of transformative techniques, breakthrough technologies, and evolving philosophies of patient care.
Under its new leadership, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® is well-positioned to embrace changes in digital platforms, multimedia content, and rapid global communication while maintaining rigorous standards.
The appointment of Dr. Lin as Editor-in-Chief represents more than a leadership transition. It signals a renewed commitment to advancing the science and art of plastic surgery, ensuring that the journal remains at the forefront of innovation for decades to come.
Haute MD content is editorial and informational. Not medical advice.