Dr. Donald Ford McPhalen – Plastic / Cosmetic Surgeon | Calgary, AB

Dr. Donald Ford McPhalen is a highly skilled Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, committed to excellence in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. Based at a specialized plastic surgery clinic in Calgary, in Calgary, AB, he serves a diverse patient population seeking expert plastic surgical care. His practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. McPhalen offers a comprehensive range of services, addressing both functional restoration and cosmetic enhancement. He is adept at procedures such as breast reconstruction, skin cancer treatment, trauma repair, as well as aesthetic surgeries including facelifts, breast augmentation, and body contouring. His particular focus involves specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer. The practice is dedicated to providing the highest standard of plastic and reconstructive surgery, combining surgical artistry with advanced techniques and a commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.

He is an experienced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive postgraduate training. Dr. McPhalen graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 1982. He has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in Alberta, including certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His credentials ensure he is well-equipped to deliver expert care in a wide array of reconstructive and aesthetic procedures.

Dr. McPhalen’s professional philosophy centers on achieving natural-looking, harmonious results that align with each patient’s individual goals. He prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality within a supportive environment. Through thorough consultations, he ensures that patients are fully informed and empowered in their decision-making process. Utilizing the latest proven techniques in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, he is dedicated to ongoing education and refinement of his surgical skills. His commitment to patient well-being in Calgary is reflected in his compassionate approach, offering all communication and care in English to ensure clarity and trust throughout the surgical journey.

Dr. Donald McPhalen addresses a wide array of conditions requiring plastic and reconstructive expertise, including:

Reconstructive Surgery (Trauma, Burns, Post-Mastectomy)

Dr. McPhalen addresses restoring form and function to body parts affected by trauma, burns, congenital anomalies, or post-surgical defects like mastectomy.

• Pressure Sore (Decubitus Ulcer) Reconstruction: Requires a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
• Burn Reconstruction (Acute and Secondary): Surgical management of acute burns (skin grafting) and secondary reconstruction of burn scars and contractures.
• Scar Revision and Contracture Release: Aims to make scars less noticeable and improve range of motion.

Skin Cancer and Benign Skin Lesion Removal

Dr. McPhalen addresses surgical diagnosis and treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous skin growths.

• Melanoma Excision and Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Surgical removal of melanoma (a serious form of skin cancer) with appropriate safety margins.
• Benign Skin Lesions (e.g., Cysts, Lipomas, Moles/Nevi, Skin Tags): Pathological examination of removed tissue is common.
• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Excision: Surgical removal of common non-melanoma skin cancers.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your specific needs, a consultation with Dr. Donald McPhalen is essential.

• Congenital Anomaly Repair (e.g., Cleft Lip/Palate, Craniofacial): Staged repairs for cleft lip and palate, and complex craniofacial surgery for conditions like craniosynostosis.
• Hand Surgery (Reconstructive and Trauma): Correction of congenital hand differences and conditions like Dupuytren's contracture.
• Pre-operative Assessment for Plastic Surgery: Detailed review of medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors.
• Facial Reconstruction (Post-Trauma or Cancer): Repair of facial injuries, including fractures and soft tissue damage, or reconstruction after removal of facial tumors.
• Burn Reconstruction and Scar Management: Surgical treatment for acute burns (skin grafting) and long-term reconstruction of burn scars and contractures.
• Comprehensive Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Consultation: In-depth discussion of procedures, expected outcomes, potential risks, and recovery process.
• Reconstructive Surgery Planning (Post-Trauma, Post-Cancer, Congenital): Specialized consultation and planning for reconstructive procedures following accidents, cancer removal (e.g., breast reconstruction), or for congenital deformities.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific procedures and suitability are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. McPhalen.

All plastic and reconstructive surgery services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS) and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada guidelines. A referral from a physician may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures.

Dr. McPhalen practices at a specialized plastic surgery clinic located in Calgary's NW neighborhoods including Bowness, Montgomery, and Greenwood. The clinic is situated conveniently in Calgary’s NW: Bowness, Montgomery, Greenwood area, providing easy access from connecting NW and SW routes. It is well-connected via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional, private, and patient-focused environment for consultations and procedures. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available, ensuring convenience for patients visiting for both initial assessments and surgical procedures.

What is the typical recovery time after plastic surgery with Dr. McPhalen?

Recovery time after plastic surgery performed by Dr. McPhalen varies significantly depending on the type and extent of the procedure(s), as well as individual healing factors. For example, recovery from a major procedure like a tummy tuck or body lift will be longer (several weeks to months) than from a minor skin lesion removal or some injectable treatments. Dr. McPhalen will provide detailed post-operative instructions and a personalized recovery timeline during your consultation.

What does a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. McPhalen specialize in?

A Plastic Surgeon, such as Dr. McPhalen, is a highly trained surgical specialist dedicated to the reconstruction of facial and body defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns, and disease, as well as aesthetic (cosmetic) surgery to enhance appearance. A Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.

What is the difference between reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery, and does Dr. McPhalen perform both?

Reconstructive surgery is performed to correct functional impairments or deformities caused by congenital abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors, or disease. It aims to restore normal form and function. Cosmetic (or aesthetic) surgery is elective and focuses on enhancing appearance or improving aesthetic appeal. Many Plastic Surgeons like Dr. McPhalen are trained and experienced in performing both types of procedures. A Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.

What is the importance of a consultation with Dr. McPhalen before deciding on a procedure?

A consultation with Dr. McPhalen is a crucial first step. It allows him to understand your goals and concerns, assess your medical history and anatomy, and discuss all suitable treatment options, including potential risks and benefits. This personalized assessment ensures that you can make an informed decision and that the chosen procedure is tailored to achieve the best possible and safest outcome for you.

Why is it important for a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. McPhalen to be board-certified?

Board certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Plastic Surgery (FRCSC) signifies that a surgeon like Dr. McPhalen has completed an accredited residency training program and has passed comprehensive written and oral examinations covering all aspects of plastic surgery, both reconstructive and cosmetic. It's a mark of high standards in training, knowledge, and surgical competence, ensuring he is qualified to perform a wide range of plastic surgery procedures safely and effectively.

What are some common procedures performed by a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. McPhalen?

Dr. McPhalen performs a wide variety of procedures. Common reconstructive procedures include breast reconstruction, skin cancer removal and reconstruction, hand surgery, and repair of congenital defects. Common cosmetic procedures might include breast augmentation or lift, liposuction, tummy tucks, facelifts, and eyelid surgery. The specific procedures offered depend on Dr. McPhalen's areas of expertise and patient needs. Specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.

a specialized plastic surgery clinic in Calgary
28 Oki Dr NW
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8

Office Phone: (403) 955-7570

Dr. McPhalen is a licensed Plastic and Reconstructive 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 may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). For cosmetic procedures, a referral is often not required, but it's advisable to discuss with your family doctor. Please contact the office for details.

Verify Dr. McPhalen's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=8ed50907-1c93-41f0-a2ac-8112f220b0e3&i=967