Dr. Joan Elizabeth Lipa – Plastic / Cosmetic Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Joan Elizabeth Lipa is a highly skilled Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, committed to excellence in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. Based at Cornwall Community Hospital in Toronto, ON, she also collaborates with Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre for complex reconstructive cases, particularly those requiring inpatient care. Her practice is situated in a professional, private, and patient-focused environment, conveniently accessible to residents of Toronto and the surrounding areas. The clinic, located near the University of Toronto's St. George Campus in the Lawrence Park neighbourhood, offers a welcoming space for consultations and procedures, with ample parking and accessible spots for those with mobility needs. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, emphasizing safety, privacy, and personalized care. Dr. Lipa’s approach prioritizes restoring both form and function, addressing a wide range of reconstructive needs while also providing aesthetic enhancements to improve quality of life.

She offers a comprehensive range of services, addressing both functional restoration and cosmetic enhancement. she 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. She's particular focus involves specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer. Her 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.

Dr. Lipa graduated with her Medical Degree from the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. She has been practicing as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon since 2000, accumulating over 24 years of specialized experience. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), holding license number 64945. Her professional philosophy centers on achieving natural-looking, harmonious results that align with each patient’s individual goals. She prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality within a supportive environment. Through thorough consultations, she ensures that patients are fully informed and empowered in their decision-making process. Dr. Lipa utilizes the latest proven techniques in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, and is dedicated to ongoing education and refinement of her surgical skills. She offers all patient communication and care in English, with a compassionate approach to every case.

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

Reconstructive Surgery (Trauma, Burns, Post-Mastectomy)

Dr. Lipa addresses utilizing advanced techniques like microsurgery, tissue transfer, and skin grafting for challenging reconstructive needs.

• Breast Reconstruction (Post-Mastectomy or Lumpectomy): Options include implant-based reconstruction (tissue expanders and permanent implants) or autologous tissue reconstruction (using the patient's own tissue from abdomen, back, or buttocks - e.g., TRAM, DIEP, latissimus flaps).
• Pressure Sore (Decubitus Ulcer) Reconstruction: Surgical closure of chronic open wounds caused by prolonged pressure, typically in bedridden or wheelchair-bound patients.

Skin Cancer and Benign Skin Lesion Removal

Dr. Lipa addresses excision of skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, often with reconstructive closure.

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Excision: Surgical removal of common non-melanoma skin cancers.
• Reconstructive Surgery after Skin Cancer Removal: Repair of defects created by the excision of skin cancers, especially on the face or other cosmetically sensitive areas.

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

• Pressure Sore (Decubitus Ulcer) Surgery: Aimed at promoting healing and preventing recurrence in high-risk patients.
• Burn Reconstruction and Scar Management: Comprehensive care to address the physical and psychological impact of burns.
• Breast Reconstruction (Implant or Autologous Tissue): Techniques include implant-based reconstruction or using the patient's own tissue (flaps) from areas like the abdomen or back.
• Skin Cancer Reconstruction (Mohs Defect Repair): Surgical repair of skin defects resulting from the removal of skin cancers, particularly after Mohs surgery.
• Pre-operative Assessment for Plastic Surgery: Ensuring patient suitability and optimizing health prior to elective plastic or reconstructive surgery.
• Cosmetic Surgery Consultation: Assessment of aesthetic concerns and development of a tailored surgical plan to achieve desired cosmetic improvements.
• Congenital Anomaly Repair (e.g., Cleft Lip/Palate, Craniofacial): Requires specialized pediatric plastic surgery expertise.

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

All plastic and reconstructive surgery services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) 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. Lipa primarily practices at Cornwall Community Hospital in Toronto, ON, which offers a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to comprehensive patient care. For complex reconstructive procedures, she collaborates with Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, located in Toronto's Lawrence Park neighbourhood, known for its specialized plastic surgery services. The clinic is conveniently accessible via public transit, including TTC subway, streetcar, and bus routes, with parking available at or near the facility. The location is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with dedicated accessible parking and easy access to the hospital’s amenities. Patients can expect a professional and supportive environment, with a focus on personalized care for both consultations and procedures. The practice is situated close to the University of Toronto's St. George Campus, making it convenient for patients from various parts of the city and beyond.

Why is a consultation with Dr. Lipa important before deciding on a procedure?

The consultation with Dr. Lipa is essential because it provides an opportunity for a thorough evaluation of your specific needs and aesthetic or reconstructive goals. Dr. Lipa can then explain the most appropriate surgical or non-surgical options, what you can realistically expect from the outcomes, and ensure you have all the information needed to proceed confidently and safely.

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

The recovery period following surgery with Dr. Lipa is tailored to the specific operation. Minimally invasive cosmetic procedures might have minimal downtime, while more extensive reconstructive or body contouring surgeries require a longer healing phase. Dr. Lipa will discuss your expected recovery, including return to work and activities, as part of your surgical plan.

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

As a Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Lipa is skilled in numerous operations. These can range from reconstructive work like repairing burn scars or facial trauma, to cosmetic enhancements such as rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and various breast surgeries. 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.

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

Choosing a board-certified Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Lipa (typically designated FRCSC in Canada) ensures that she has met rigorous training and examination standards specifically in the field of plastic surgery. This certification demonstrates a commitment to patient safety, ethical practice, and a high level of skill in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.

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

Reconstructive plastic surgery addresses physical abnormalities to improve function and normalize appearance (e.g., breast reconstruction after mastectomy, cleft lip repair). Cosmetic plastic surgery is focused on enhancing aesthetic features (e.g., facelift, breast augmentation). Dr. Lipa, as a board-certified Plastic Surgeon, is skilled in aspects of both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, with a focus on restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.

Cornwall Community Hospital
2075 Bayview Avenue M1 514
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Office Phone: (416) 480-6069 | Office Fax: (416) 480-5795

Dr. Lipa is a licensed Plastic and Reconstructive 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 may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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. Lipa's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lipa-Joan-Elizabeth/0050966-64945