Orthopedic surgeons in employed settings can see a 49% increase in average salary from early to midcareer, according to Medscape’s Salary Explorer tool.
Nationwide, orthopedic surgeons with one to seven years of experience earn an average of $410,000 annually, Medscape data shows. Salaries rise steadily with experience:
- 8 to 14 years: $530,000
- 15 to 21 years: $640,000
- 22 to 28 years: $610,000
While compensation peaks between 15 and 21 years of experience, surgeons later in their careers still earn more than $200,000 above early career peers.
By comparison, orthopedic surgeons in self-employed settings start higher and peak at $750,000 in midcareer, about $110,000 more than employed peers at the same stage. Even with a late-career dip, self-employed surgeons average $690,000.
Orthopedic surgery also remains the highest-paid physician specialty overall, with compensation consistently outpacing other fields.
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
