About
Dr. Ian Frederick Forrest is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Toronto and performing surgeries at North York General Hospital in Toronto, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. Dr. Forrest adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). He has expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. He performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. His 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. Forrest graduated with a Medical Degree from Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine in Canada. With over 39 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1985, he brings extensive clinical expertise to his practice. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring adherence to rigorous professional standards and ongoing education.
Dr. Forrest’s professional philosophy revolves around providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, he aims to facilitate quicker recovery and reduce surgical trauma. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and remains dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence to serve patients in Toronto. Dr. Forrest provides surgical consultations and care in English.
Dr. Ian Forrest provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Forrest addresses a range of disorders affecting organs within the abdomen, including the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and colon.
- Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Hardened deposits in the gallbladder (gallstones) that can cause pain, inflammation (cholecystitis), or blockages.
- 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. Forrest addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.
- Breast Cancer: Part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan including radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Ian Forrest is necessary.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
- Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
- Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.
- General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
- Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedures to alleviate pain and prevent complications associated with hernias.
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. Forrest.
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. Forrest's practice is located at a reputable surgical clinic in Toronto, situated in the vibrant neighborhoods of Bathurst Manor, Wilson Heights, and Downsview North. Surgical procedures are typically performed at North York General Hospital, a leading healthcare facility in the region. The clinic benefits from close proximity to Meridian Hall, with accessible transportation options including TTC services such as subway, streetcar, and bus routes. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy, providing a professional environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Patients and visitors can generally find parking in hospital-affiliated lots or nearby public parking facilities, ensuring convenient access for all.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Forrest?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Forrest is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Forrest 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.
- Does Dr. Forrest perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Forrest to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. Forrest would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.
- Do General Surgeons like Dr. Forrest ever specialize further?
- Indeed. After completing general surgery residency, surgeons can opt for further fellowship training to subspecialize. Dr. Forrest, 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.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Forrest?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Forrest doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Forrest 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. Forrest after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Forrest perform?
- As a General Surgeon, Dr. Forrest 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. Forrest's areas of focus within general surgery.
Suite 302, 4430 Bathurst Street
Toronto, ON M3H 3S3
Clinic Phone: (416) 250-6822 | Clinic Fax: (416) 250-6830
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Forrest 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. Forrest for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).
Verify Dr. Forrest's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Forrest-Ian-Frederick/0044631-58609