Dr. Jean-François Bellemare is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Montréal, QC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. He adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines established by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). His role encompasses 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. Bellemare’s 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.
He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has over 35 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1989. He has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a General Surgeon in Québec. His qualifications ensure a deep expertise in a wide array of surgical procedures, with a focus on safety, effectiveness, and evidence-based practice.
Dr. Bellemare is committed to providing a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. He utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to facilitate quicker recovery and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management. Dedicated to surgical excellence and ongoing professional development, Dr. Bellemare offers consultations and surgical care in French, serving the Montréal community with compassion and professionalism.
Dr. Jean-François Bellemare provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Bellemare addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.
- Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Surgical repair is often recommended to prevent pain and complications like strangulation.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Surgical management of complications or medically refractory Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Bellemare 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): Reconstructive techniques may be used for larger excisions.
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Surgical resection of tumors in the colon or rectum, often the primary treatment for localized disease.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Jean-François Bellemare is necessary.
- Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Thorough evaluation of patient fitness for surgery and detailed surgical planning.
- Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Surgical procedures for benign and malignant breast conditions.
- Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedures to alleviate pain and prevent complications associated with hernias.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
- Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Procedure to visualize the upper digestive tract directly.
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. Bellemare.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Bellemare’s primary clinic is located at Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal, situated in Montréal's Cartierville North neighborhood. The clinic operates in a modern, professional environment designed to prioritize patient comfort, safety, and privacy. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The practice is conveniently accessible via public transportation, including the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) (Métro, Bus), with nearby parking options, including accessible parking. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Patients can expect a welcoming setting for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up surgical care, with a focus on personalized, compassionate service. The nearby vicinity includes notable landmarks such as La Ronde Amusement Park, making it easy to locate and access for patients from various parts of Montréal.
- Does Dr. Bellemare perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Bellemare 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. Bellemare whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Bellemare?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Bellemare 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. Bellemare will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Bellemare perform?
- As a General Surgeon, Dr. Bellemare 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. Bellemare's areas of focus within general surgery.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Bellemare?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Bellemare is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Bellemare 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.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Bellemare do?
- Dr. Bellemare, 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.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Bellemare?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Bellemare 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.
Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal
5400 boul Gouin O
Montréal, QC H4J 1C5
Clinic Phone: (514) 338-2050 | Clinic Fax: (450) 975-1935
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Bellemare is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Bellemare for services covered by the provincial health plan (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)).
Verify Dr. Bellemare's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=85191