Plastic Surgery Practice Brokers: What to Know Before You Sell or Buy an Aesthetic Practice

Whether you're preparing to exit your practice, expand through acquisition, or bring on a new partner, navigating a plastic surgery practice transition is a complex, high-stakes process. From valuation to negotiations, practice brokers can play a key role, but they’re only one part of a complete exit and growth strategy.

In this guide, we break down how plastic surgery practice brokers work, what they do (and don’t do), and how to protect your interests when selling, buying, or transitioning a cosmetic or surgical practice.

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What Is a Plastic Surgery Practice Broker?

A plastic surgery practice broker is a professional who helps connect buyers and sellers of medical aesthetic practices. They’re part matchmaker, part negotiator, and part deal advisor.

A good broker will help with:

• Identifying and qualifying potential buyers

• Positioning your practice for sale (branding, financial prep, etc.)

• Coordinating offers, terms, and deal timelines

• Navigating closing steps with attorneys and CPAs

That said, most brokers are not responsible for:

• Legal contract review

• Tax structure optimization

• Asset protection or estate planning coordination

• Long-term business planning

For those pieces, you’ll need specialized advisors, like business attorneys, CPAs, and exit planners who understand physician-owned practices.

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Why Plastic Surgery Practices Are in High Demand

Plastic surgery is one of the most attractive specialties for private investors and buyers because:

• Practices generate high-margin, cash-pay revenue

• Many have strong branding and patient loyalty

• There’s potential for geographic expansion or brand franchising

• Demand for aesthetic services continues to rise globally

If your practice includes injectables, med-spa services, private-label skincare, or a reputation-driven surgical brand, it could be highly valuable... but only if it’s positioned correctly.

What to Consider Before Working With a Practice Broker

1. Do They Specialize in Medical Aesthetic Practices?
Selling a plastic surgery practice isn’t like selling a dental or family medicine office. Look for brokers who understand brand value, cash-based revenue models, and regulatory risk.

2. How Are They Paid?
Most brokers work on commission, typically 5–10% of the final sale price. Make sure you understand their fee structure, minimums, and exclusivity terms.

3. Do They Work With Your Advisors?
The best outcomes come when brokers coordinate with your business attorney, tax planner, and exit strategist, ensuring the sale structure aligns with your overall wealth and succession plan.

4. Are You Truly Ready to Sell?
Before engaging a broker, consider whether you’ve clarified:

• Your post-exit goals (retire, reinvest, consult?)

• Your tax exposure on the sale

• Whether you want to sell 100%, take on a partner, or phase out over time

That’s where exit planning comes in.

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How We Help Plastic Surgeons Prepare for a Sale

Are team of Advisors include plastic surgeon brokers who can help by:

• Valuation of your practice (beyond just revenue)

• Legal and tax structures that protect the sale proceeds

• Reducing capital gains exposure and estate friction

• Determining whether a full sale, partner buy-in, or equity roll-up is the best path

When You Might Use a Broker

• You’re ready to fully or partially retire

• You want to sell your med-spa or aesthetic division separately

• You’re relocating or consolidating operations

• You’ve built a premium brand and want to maximize its value

If you’re still a few years away from exit, a broker may not be necessary yet, but an exit plan definitely is.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire a plastic surgery practice broker?
Most charge a commission between 5–15% of the sale price, plus potential marketing or legal fees. Terms vary, so it's essential to review the agreement carefully.

Can I sell my med-spa separately from my plastic surgery practice?
Yes, and in some cases, it’s advantageous. The med-spa may appeal to different buyers and can often be valued on different metrics.

Should I use a broker or go directly to buyers?
Brokers offer reach and structure, but they’re not essential in every case. If you have a strong network or already know potential buyers, a business attorney or exit planner may be more appropriate.

When should I start planning to sell my practice?
Ideally, 2–3 years before your intended exit. That gives you time to optimize financials, structure your legal and tax plan, and build a strong negotiating position.