Evidence-based plastic surgery integrates the best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values. The purpose of this issue is to assist surgeons at any stage in their careers, from residents and clinical fellows to established clinical surgeons and academic practitioners, to address important clinical questions through correct research methods. Topics covered in this issue include how to formulate clinically important questions; what study design can best answer a specific research question; how to measure the results of surgical interventions, in particular the health status and quality of life of patients; and, how to evaluate one's practice through cost-effectiveness analysis.