Prior research has revealed a gender gap in physician burnout. Our study attempts to elucidate the cause for the differences in burnout among male and female general surgeons (GS). The study is based on a sample of 431 GS from 11 healthcare organizations participating in the Physician Wellness Academic Consortium. Female (N = 154) and male (N = 277) GS significantly differed in burnout (46% vs 33%, p = 0.008) and professional fulfillment (PF), (37% vs 56% p < 0.001).