Dr. Alisha Kathleen Tessier is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Medicine Hat and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Medicine Hat, AB, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Tessier’s role involves diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. She performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. Her approach is rooted in providing patient-centered, high-quality care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, emphasizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach to treatment.
Dr. Tessier graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2009. She has completed extensive postgraduate training in general surgery and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a General Surgeon in Alberta. Her credentials include certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring her adherence to rigorous professional standards and ongoing competency in her field.
Her professional philosophy is centered on delivering safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She is committed to clear communication, shared decision-making, and utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery. Dr. Tessier collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. Additionally, she is fluent in French, allowing her to effectively serve a diverse patient population in Medicine Hat and surrounding communities.
Dr. Alisha Tessier provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Tessier addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a medical emergency typically requiring surgical removal (appendectomy).
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Tessier addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.
- Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): May include sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma to guide further treatment.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Surgical excision of malignant tumors arising from soft tissues (muscle, fat, connective tissue).
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Alisha Tessier is necessary.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Frequently performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.
- Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Surgical procedures for benign and malignant breast conditions.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
- Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Surgical removal of a portion of the small or large intestine (colon).
- General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
Note: This list provides an overview of common surgical areas. Specific procedures and treatment plans are determined on an individual basis after consultation with Dr. Tessier.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Tessier's practice is based at a dedicated surgical clinic located in the heart of Medicine Hat, within the Downtown Medicine Hat, SE Hill, River Flats neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Medicine Hat Mall and is accessible via Medicine Hat Transit, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals, which are equipped with modern facilities. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to prioritize patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for consultations, pre-surgical assessments, and follow-up care. Parking is usually available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with designated accessible parking spots for those with mobility needs.
- Does Dr. Tessier perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Tessier are trained in and regularly perform laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery. This technique involves making several small incisions instead of one large one, using a camera and specialized instruments to perform the operation. Laparoscopic approaches are common for procedures like gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and hernia repair, often resulting in less post-operative pain, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activities. You should discuss with Dr. Tessier whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Tessier do?
- Dr. Tessier, a General Surgeon, is a specialist surgeon who manages a wide variety of common and complex surgical problems. General surgeons are often the primary surgical contact for conditions involving the digestive tract, abdominal organs, hernias, breast diseases, and skin/soft tissue lesions. They are trained in numerous surgical techniques, including minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery, and play a critical role in both planned (elective) operations and emergency surgical situations.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Tessier?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Tessier is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Tessier will discuss the expected recovery process, including hospital stay (if any), return to work, and activity restrictions, as part of your pre-operative consultation and post-operative care plan.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Tessier?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Tessier doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Tessier to assess your condition thoroughly, review any tests, and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment, or if alternative non-operative options should be considered. The final decision is typically made collaboratively between you and Dr. Tessier after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Tessier?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Tessier is usually made by your family doctor or another specialist when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical evaluation or treatment. This could include persistent abdominal pain, a new lump or mass (e.g., in the breast or skin), symptoms of gallbladder disease, a hernia, signs of appendicitis, or concerns about colorectal conditions. They also manage conditions initially identified through screening, like colon polyps or early-stage breast cancer.
- Do General Surgeons like Dr. Tessier ever specialize further?
- Indeed. After completing general surgery residency, surgeons can opt for further fellowship training to subspecialize. Dr. Tessier, as a General Surgeon, has a wide scope of practice, but some general surgeons focus more on specific areas like vascular surgery, pediatric surgery (if they have dual certification or focus), or cancer surgery (surgical oncology). General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions. This allows them to offer highly specialized care within those fields while maintaining their broad general surgical skills.
328-770 6 St SW, Mohawk Medical Arts Centre
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 4J6
Clinic Phone: (587) 750-4200 | Clinic Fax: (587) 750-4201
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Tessier is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Tessier for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).
Verify Dr. Tessier's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=3a7e667a-8053-499a-89b1-188aa2b58e75&i=1435