About
Dr. James Yoshio Okamura is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at Okamura James Y Dr and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Burnaby, BC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). 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. Dr. Okamura's approach is focused on providing high-quality, patient-centered care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.
He graduated with his MD from the University of Alberta in 1989 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. He also maintains certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. His training and certifications allow him to deliver expert surgical care with a focus on safety and effectiveness.
Dr. Okamura's professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care with a patient-centered approach. He emphasizes clear communication, shared decision-making, and the use of minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery and better patient outcomes. Dedicated to collaborative, multidisciplinary management, he strives to ensure each patient in Burnaby receives comprehensive and compassionate surgical care. Dr. Okamura provides surgical consultations and follow-up care in English, ensuring clear understanding and effective communication throughout the treatment process.
Dr. James Okamura provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Okamura addresses a range of disorders affecting organs within the abdomen, including the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and colon.
- Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Inflammation or infection in one or more small pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract, usually the colon.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Emergency surgery to repair perforated ulcers or control massive bleeding.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Okamura 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): Surgical excision of malignant skin lesions with appropriate margins.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Aim is to achieve wide, clear surgical margins to prevent local recurrence.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. James Okamura is necessary.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Monitoring recovery after surgical procedures, managing potential complications.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Procedures often performed under local anesthesia with attention to cosmetic closure.
- Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Discussing the surgical plan, expected outcomes, and answering patient questions before surgery.
- Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Reviewing existing diagnoses and proposed surgical treatments to provide additional perspective.
- General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
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. Okamura.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Okamura's primary clinic, Okamura James Y Dr, is located in Burnaby's Central Burnaby, BCIT Area neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Central Park Access and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). The facility offers a professional and patient-oriented environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Parking is typically available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with accessible spots designated for patients with mobility needs. Specific details may vary depending on the exact facility, but all are committed to providing a welcoming and accessible setting for all patients.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Okamura perform?
- As a General Surgeon, Dr. Okamura 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. Okamura's areas of focus within general surgery.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Okamura do?
- Dr. Okamura, 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. Okamura?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Okamura is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Okamura 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. Okamura?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Okamura 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. Okamura will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.
- Does Dr. Okamura perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Okamura 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. Okamura whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Okamura?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Okamura 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.
Okamura James Y Dr
710-4980 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC V5H 4K7
Clinic Phone: (604) 433-8500 | Clinic Fax: (604) 433-8506
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Okamura is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Okamura for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).
Verify Dr. Okamura's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/325234/Okamura%2CJames