It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Paul Y. Liu, MD, a beloved physician, colleague, mentor, and friend, who died after a courageous battle with leukemia. His loss is felt profoundly across the medical community, especially within the fields of plastic surgery and wound healing, where his contributions shaped lives, careers, and patient outcomes for decades.
Dr. Liu dedicated more than 35 years to advancing wound healing research, education, and compassionate patient care. Internationally respected for his expertise, he uniquely combined mathematics, immunology, surgery, and clinical science to improve healing outcomes and inspire innovation in the wound care community. His ability to bridge disciplines and draw others into meaningful collaboration set him apart as both a visionary and a teacher.
Paul served as President of the Wound Healing Society, program co-chair for society meetings, and course director for the Functional Diabetic Limb Salvage and Wound Healing Foundation Conference. He was also deeply involved in organizing the Wound Healing Foundation – Thomas K. Hunt Lecture Series, promoting innovative thinking and future-forward research. Since 2012, Paul remained a dedicated leader and servant of the Foundation, continuously giving his time, knowledge, and heart to its mission.
Equally at home lecturing in academic halls as he was serving on medical mission trips, Paul exemplified what it means to practice medicine with humility, generosity, and purpose. He forged deep friendships across the world, touching countless lives through both his work and his kindness. Those who knew him will remember his enthusiasm, warmth, and unwavering commitment to helping others.
The Foundation will honor Paul’s enduring legacy in wound healing — a legacy rooted in passion, knowledge, and service. Details regarding funeral arrangements, obituary, and memorial contributions will be shared as they become available.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Paul’s family, loved ones, colleagues, and all who were privileged to know him. His life’s work continues through the many professionals he mentored, the patients he healed, and the community he strengthened.
Rest in peace, Dr. Liu. Your legacy will forever inspire healing, hope, and compassion.