Dr. Denise Lynn Schnider – General Surgeon | Brantford, ON

Dr. Denise Lynn Schnider is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Brantford and performing surgeries at Brant Community Healthcare System Hospital in Brantford, ON, she is a respected member of the surgical community. She adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her 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. The practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

Dr. Schnider graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada. With over 35 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1989, she brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to her patients. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring her practice aligns with the highest professional standards and ongoing professional development requirements.

Her professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She is committed to a patient-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Schnider utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and reduced post-operative discomfort. She collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive management of her patients’ health conditions. Her dedication to surgical excellence aims to deliver optimal outcomes for patients in Brantford and surrounding communities. She provides surgical consultations and care in English, with a focus on compassionate and personalized treatment.

Dr. Denise Schnider provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Schnider addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.

• 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.
• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Hardened deposits in the gallbladder (gallstones) that can cause pain, inflammation (cholecystitis), or blockages.
• Appendicitis: A common cause of acute abdominal pain, especially in the right lower quadrant.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Schnider addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.

• Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): May include sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma to guide further treatment.
• Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Part of a comprehensive cancer management strategy.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Denise Schnider is necessary.

• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Thorough evaluation of patient fitness for surgery and detailed surgical planning.
• Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Consultations to help patients make informed decisions about their surgical care.
• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.
• General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.

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. Schnider.

All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Schnider's primary clinic is located in a dedicated surgical facility in Brantford’s Holmedale neighborhood within the North Ward area. The clinic offers a welcoming, professional environment for consultations and follow-up care, with easy access to parking, including accessible options. Surgical procedures are typically performed at the Brant Community Healthcare System Hospital, which is equipped with modern operating rooms and patient amenities. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to prioritize patient comfort and privacy. The practice benefits from proximity to Lynden Park Mall, accessible via Brantford Transit, making it convenient for patients from various parts of the city and surrounding communities. The location provides a safe, accessible, and patient-centered setting for surgical consultations and ongoing care.

What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Schnider?

Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Schnider varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. Schnider will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Schnider do?

A General Surgeon, such as Dr. Schnider, is a highly trained physician specializing in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a broad range of diseases affecting various parts of the body. Their expertise commonly includes conditions of the abdomen (e.g., appendix, gallbladder, intestines, stomach), breast, skin, soft tissues, and endocrine system (e.g., thyroid). They perform both elective and emergency surgeries and are skilled in pre-operative, operative, and post-operative patient care. As a General Surgeon, Dr. Schnider provides comprehensive surgical management.

When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Schnider?

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Schnider 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.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Schnider perform?

As a General Surgeon, Dr. Schnider is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures. Common operations include appendectomies (appendix removal), cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, bowel resections (for conditions like cancer or diverticulitis), thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and surgeries for breast conditions. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques, which often lead to quicker recovery. The specific procedures offered depend on Dr. Schnider's areas of focus within general surgery.

Does Dr. Schnider perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?

Many General Surgeons like Dr. Schnider 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. Schnider whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Schnider ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Schnider may develop particular areas of interest or pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties. These can include areas like colorectal surgery, breast surgery, endocrine surgery, surgical oncology (cancer surgery), trauma/critical care surgery, vascular surgery, or pediatric surgery. If Dr. Schnider has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise her brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.

Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Schnider?

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Schnider is an opportunity to evaluate your condition, discuss diagnostic findings, and explore all treatment options. In some cases, surgery may be the recommended course of action, but in others, non-surgical management, observation, or further investigation might be more appropriate. Dr. Schnider will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

217 Terrace Hill Street
Brantford, ON N3R 1G8

Clinic Phone: (519) 759-1914 | Clinic Fax: (519) 759-3605

The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.

Dr. Schnider is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Schnider for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Schnider's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Schnider-Denise-Lynn/0038415-52391