Estate Planning for Plastic Surgeons: How to Protect Your Wealth and Legacy

As a high-earning plastic surgeon, you’ve spent years building your practice, your reputation, and your personal wealth. But without a comprehensive estate plan, much of what you’ve worked for could be lost to taxes, probate, or legal disputes. Estate planning isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy—it’s for any physician who wants to protect their family, minimize taxes, and leave a clear legacy.

Watch our webinar on estate planning strategies designed specifically for plastic surgeons:
→ Watch Estate Planning For Plastic Surgeons

Why Estate Planning Is Essential for Plastic Surgeons

Plastic surgeons face unique financial considerations that require tailored estate strategies. These include:

• High, variable income (practice revenue, surgery center ownership, etc.)

• Business assets, such as private practices or partnerships

• Exposure to liability and malpractice claims

• Complex tax planning needs

Without proper planning, your estate could face:

• Probate delays

• Excessive estate or inheritance taxes

• Confusion over practice ownership transfers

• Legal conflicts between heirs or business partners

Core Estate Planning Tools for Plastic Surgeons

• Revocable Living Trust
  Avoids probate, keeps your estate private, and allows for smooth transfer of assets.

• Will & Medical Directives
  Outlines your wishes for medical care and asset distribution.

• Durable Power of Attorney
  Appoints someone you trust to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated.

• Business Succession Plan
  Provides a roadmap for transferring ownership of your practice or shares in an ASC or med spa.

• Asset Protection Trusts (where appropriate)
  Protects personal wealth from potential lawsuits or claims.

• Tax Reduction Strategies
  Uses gifting, charitable trusts, and other tools to minimize estate taxes.

Mistakes Plastic Surgeons Make in Estate Planning

• Relying on generic online templates

• Failing to include business transition planning

• Ignoring state-specific estate tax laws

• Not reviewing or updating plans regularly

• Failing to coordinate estate planning with tax and financial strategies

Working With a Specialized Estate Planner

The right estate planner will help you:

• Minimize tax liability

• Avoid probate

• Protect your family and business partners

• Ensure continuity of care for your patients if you retire or pass unexpectedly

Estate planning isn’t just about death—it’s about control, protection, and peace of mind while you’re alive. For plastic surgeons, a thoughtful estate plan safeguards everything you’ve worked hard to build.

Take the Next Step
Watch our webinar on estate planning strategies designed specifically for plastic surgery practice owners.
→ Watch Estate Planning For Plastic Surgeons