Many orthopedic surgeons have the income to build generational wealth, but not the structure to capture it. This article breaks down the “raccoon trap” of lifestyle inflation, shows how small shifts in spending and saving create six‑figure differences over a decade, and explains how tools like cash balance plans and intentional S‑Corp design can redirect more of your income toward long‑term freedom instead of the parking lot.

Interest rate headlines change every month. Your financial structure shouldn’t. This article shows orthopedic surgeons how to build an if‑then framework for cash, practice debt, and portfolios, so FOMC week becomes a simple review point—not a trigger for rushed, reactive decisions.