Dr. Jennifer Li – General Surgeon | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Jennifer Li is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in New Westminster and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in New Westminster, BC, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). She has expertise in 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 surgical 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. Li graduated with her MD from the University of British Columbia in 2014. She holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon and is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her extensive training and board certification reflect her commitment to surgical excellence and continuous professional development, ensuring her patients receive evidence-based and safe surgical care.

Her professional philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication, shared decision-making, and the use of minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery. She is committed to collaborating with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and actively participates in ongoing education to stay at the forefront of surgical advancements. Additionally, Dr. Li communicates effectively in Mandarin and English, allowing her to serve a diverse patient population in the New Westminster community.

Dr. Jennifer Li provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Li addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.

• 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.
• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Common types include inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button), and incisional (at the site of a previous surgery).
• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Hardened deposits in the gallbladder (gallstones) that can cause pain, inflammation (cholecystitis), or blockages.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Li addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.

• Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Surgical resection of tumors in the colon or rectum, often the primary treatment for localized disease.
• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Surgical excision of malignant tumors arising from soft tissues (muscle, fat, connective tissue).

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

• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Providing follow-up appointments to assess healing and long-term outcomes.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
• Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Offering expert second opinions for patients considering general surgical interventions.
• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Includes breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), removal of the entire breast (mastectomy), and diagnostic biopsies.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Procedure to visualize the upper digestive tract directly.
• Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Surgical removal of a portion of the small or large intestine (colon).

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. Li.

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. Li’s primary surgical clinic is located in the vibrant Uptown neighbourhood of New Westminster, BC, near the Douglas College New Westminster Campus. The clinic provides a professional, welcoming environment for consultations and follow-up care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals equipped with modern facilities. The location is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus), with ample parking options nearby, including accessible parking. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to ensure patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a dedicated team that prioritizes quality, safety, and compassionate care in a convenient and patient-oriented setting.

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

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

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

Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Li 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. Li will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Li perform?

Dr. Li, a General Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. Li may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

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

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Li 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.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Li ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Li 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. Li 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.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Li do?

Dr. Li, 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.

Suite 201 - 301 E Columbia St
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W5

Clinic Phone: (604) 970-1096 | Clinic Fax: (604) 800-0221

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

Dr. Li 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. Li for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).

Verify Dr. Li's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/336855/Li%2CJennifer