Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Frank Agullo, MD, FACS, is encouraging medical students to explore broadly, seek mentorship early and prepare strategically for competitive specialties, drawing on lessons from his own path into plastic surgery. Dr. Agullo shared his advice on the latest episode of D.O. Pulse, the official podcast of Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he reflected on his career journey and offered practical guidance for students navigating medical school.
“When you’re in medical school, you really want to try as many specialties as you can,” Dr. Agullo said. “If you know what you want to focus on, that’s an opportunity to strengthen your CV and be intentional with how you spend your time.”
Dr. Agullo, who practices in El Paso, said early exposure and persistence helped shape his career in one of medicine’s most competitive fields. While he knew early on that he wanted to become a surgeon, his interests evolved as he discovered plastic surgery’s unique blend of precision, creativity and patient impact.
“I thought it was the perfect field where you mix science and art while helping people,” he said.
He emphasized that plastic surgery extends far beyond cosmetic procedures, encompassing reconstructive work for cancer patients, congenital abnormalities and functional restoration.
“Plastic surgery comes from the word ‘plastics,’ which means to shape or mold,” Dr. Agullo said. “It’s about restoring form and function.”
Reflecting on his experience as a medical graduate, Dr. Agullo underscored the importance of resilience, preparation and self-advocacy, particularly for students pursuing highly competitive specialties.
“You have to be willing to prove yourself and put in the extra work,” he said. “That means taking initiative, finding mentors and building a strong academic and professional foundation early.”
Dr. Agullo also encouraged students to prepare for aspects of medicine that are often overlooked in training, including the business side of healthcare and the importance of teamwork.
“As physicians, we don’t always get trained for running a practice,” he said. “And no matter what specialty you choose, you need a great team around you to succeed.”
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Agullo participates in international medical missions, performing cleft lip and palate surgeries for children in South America, work he described as among the most meaningful of his career.
“You do the surgery, and you change their lives forever,” he said.
Dr. Agullo closed the episode with straightforward advice for students weighing demanding career paths.
“If it’s really what you love,” he said, “go for it.”
The full interview is available on D.O. Pulse, the official podcast of Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine.
