Dr. Karen Nicole Slater – Plastic / Cosmetic Surgeon | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. Karen Nicole Slater is a highly skilled Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, committed to excellence in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. Based at a specialized plastic surgery clinic in North Vancouver in North Vancouver, BC, she also practices at affiliated hospitals for advanced procedures in complex cases. She adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring the highest quality of care. Dr. Slater 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. Her particular focus involves 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.

With extensive postgraduate training and a solid educational background, she graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2013. Dr. Slater is an experienced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with key certifications, including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, which attest to her specialized expertise and dedication to ongoing professional development.

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, providing a supportive environment for all consultations and procedures. Dr. Slater utilizes the latest proven techniques in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, and she is committed to ongoing education and refinement of her surgical skills. She offers all patient communication and care in English and is dedicated to the well-being of her patients in North Vancouver.

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

Reconstructive Surgery (Trauma, Burns, Post-Mastectomy)

Dr. Slater addresses complex surgical procedures to repair injuries, correct deformities, and improve quality of life after significant tissue damage or loss.

• Hand Injuries (e.g., Tendon/Nerve Repair, Fractures, Amputations): Microsurgical techniques are often employed for nerve and vessel repair.
• Breast Reconstruction (Post-Mastectomy or Lumpectomy): Surgical procedures to recreate a breast mound after removal for cancer treatment.
• Pressure Sore (Decubitus Ulcer) Reconstruction: Requires a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

Skin Cancer and Benign Skin Lesion Removal

Dr. Slater addresses surgical diagnosis and treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous skin growths.

• 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.
• Benign Skin Lesions (e.g., Cysts, Lipomas, Moles/Nevi, Skin Tags): Pathological examination of removed tissue is common.
• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Excision: Techniques include simple excision, Mohs micrographic surgery (performed by Mohs surgeons, plastic surgeons do reconstruction), or curettage and electrodesiccation.

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

• Pressure Sore (Decubitus Ulcer) Surgery: Surgical closure of chronic pressure wounds, typically involving debridement and flap reconstruction.
• Breast Reconstruction (Implant or Autologous Tissue): Often involves multiple stages, including nipple and areola reconstruction.
• Cosmetic Surgery Consultation: Assessment of aesthetic concerns and development of a tailored surgical plan to achieve desired cosmetic improvements.
• Burn Reconstruction and Scar Management: Comprehensive care to address the physical and psychological impact of burns.
• Facial Reconstruction (Post-Trauma or Cancer): Repair of facial injuries, including fractures and soft tissue damage, or reconstruction after removal of facial tumors.
• Congenital Anomaly Repair (e.g., Cleft Lip/Palate, Craniofacial): Staged repairs for cleft lip and palate, and complex craniofacial surgery for conditions like craniosynostosis.
• Comprehensive Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Consultation: Thorough assessment of patient goals, medical history, and anatomical considerations to determine appropriate surgical or non-surgical options.

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

All plastic and reconstructive surgery 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 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. Slater's practice is located within a specialized plastic surgery clinic in North Vancouver, situated in the vibrant North Vancouver neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently positioned near major medical facilities, ensuring seamless coordination for complex cases requiring hospital-based procedures. Accessibility is a priority; the clinic can be reached via local public transit routes, and it features ample parking options, including designated accessible spots. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional, private environment for consultations and procedures. Patients can expect a welcoming atmosphere focused on personalized care and safety.

What does a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Slater specialize in?

Dr. Slater is a Plastic Surgeon with expertise in a broad range of surgical procedures. This includes reconstructive surgery to restore form and function, and cosmetic surgery to improve aesthetic appearance. She specializes 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. Slater to be board-certified?

Choosing a board-certified Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Slater (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.

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

The consultation with Dr. Slater is essential because it provides an opportunity for a thorough evaluation of your specific needs and aesthetic or reconstructive goals. Dr. Slater 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. Slater?

The recovery period following surgery with Dr. Slater 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. Slater will discuss your expected recovery, including return to work and activities, as part of your surgical plan.

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

Reconstructive surgery is performed to correct functional impairments or deformities caused by congenital abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors, or disease. It aims to restore normal form and function. Cosmetic (or aesthetic) surgery is elective and focuses on enhancing appearance or improving aesthetic appeal. Many Plastic Surgeons like Dr. Slater are trained and experienced in performing both types of procedures. She is dedicated to restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.

a specialized plastic surgery clinic in North Vancouver
101-1133 Lonsdale Ave
North Vancouver, BC V7M 2H4

Office Phone: (604) 983-9985 | Office Fax: (604) 983-2074

Dr. Slater is a licensed Plastic and Reconstructive 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 may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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. Slater's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/335052/Slater%2CKaren