Description
About Dr. Lorraine Min-Shan Liang
Dr. Lorraine Min-Shan Liang is a dedicated Urologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract in men and women, and the male reproductive system. Practicing at McMaster University in Hamilton, ON, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring quality and safe patient care within a modern clinical environment.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center in the United States. With over 5 years of experience as a Urologist since 2019, she is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist in Urology. Her certification affirms her expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of urological practice in Ontario.
Dr. Liang’s clinical philosophy is centered on patient-focused care, utilizing the latest evidence-based and minimally invasive techniques where appropriate. She is dedicated to providing thorough patient education, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their urinary and reproductive health. Fluent in English, she offers compassionate, comprehensive urological services to adult male and female patients in Hamilton and the surrounding communities.
Common Conditions Dr. Lorraine Liang Addresses
Dr. Lorraine Liang addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:
Urologic Cancers
- Bladder Cancer: Cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, most commonly in the urothelial cells lining the inside of the bladder.
- Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma): Cancer that originates in the kidneys, with renal cell carcinoma being the most common type in adults.
- Penile Cancer: A rare type of cancer that occurs on or in the penis.
Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions
- Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI): Involuntary leakage of urine during physical activity like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Women: Frequent bladder or kidney infections requiring investigation and management.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Cystocele - Bladder Prolapse): When the bladder drops (prolapses) from its normal position in the pelvis and pushes on the wall of the vagina.
Prostate & Male Genital Conditions
- Testicular Pain, Masses & Swelling (e.g., Epididymitis, Orchitis, Hydrocele, Varicocele, Testicular Torsion): Various conditions causing discomfort or changes in the testicles or scrotum, requiring urological evaluation.
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
- Peyronie's Disease: A condition where scar tissue (plaque) forms under the skin of the penis, causing curved, painful erections.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. Lorraine Liang.
Urologist Services Offered by Dr. Lorraine Min-Shan Liang
- Male Infertility Evaluation & Management (in collaboration with fertility specialists): Investigating causes of male infertility and offering medical or surgical treatments (e.g., varicocele repair, sperm retrieval).
- Laser Surgery for Urological Conditions: Employing various laser technologies for treatments such as BPH (e.g., HoLEP, GreenLight), kidney stones, and bladder tumors.
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Diagnosis & Treatment: Comprehensive evaluation and management of ED, including oral medications, injection therapy, vacuum devices, and penile prosthesis surgery.
- Urinalysis & Urine Culture Interpretation: Analysis of urine samples to detect and manage urinary tract infections, kidney disorders, and other urological issues.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Management in Women: Investigating causes and providing preventive and treatment strategies for women with frequent UTIs.
- Minimally Invasive Urologic Surgery (Laparoscopic & Robotic-Assisted): Performing complex urological surgeries using small incisions and advanced technology for reduced recovery time (e.g., for prostate, kidney, bladder conditions).
- Open Urological Surgery (for complex cases): Traditional surgical approaches for conditions not amenable to minimally invasive techniques.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Liang for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Lorraine Min-Shan Liang practices at McMaster University in Hamilton's Corktown neighborhood, within a facility closely situated to the FirstOntario Centre (Bay St Entrance) and Pier 4 Park. The clinic is easily accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) public transit, with stops nearby. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the clinic, providing convenient options for those arriving by car. The practice is situated in a vibrant area with scenic views and easy access to local amenities, making it a comfortable environment for patient visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Liang, a Urologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Liang, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer technologies, medications, or elective procedures (like cosmetic urology or certain non-insured infertility treatments) may not be covered or may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Liang's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Liang, a Urologist?
- Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in ON, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Liang. This ensures your care is coordinated and appropriate. Some specific services, like vasectomy in certain private clinic settings, might occasionally be accessed directly, but for general urological assessment or provincially insured care, a referral is the standard pathway.
- What does a vasectomy involve if performed by Dr. Liang?
- A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure for permanent male contraception. It involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. Dr. Liang would perform this procedure, usually in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. It's a highly effective form of birth control. It's important to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and the fact that it's considered permanent with Dr. Liang beforehand.
- What is a cystoscopy and why might I need one?
- A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your urologist, such as Dr. Dr. Liang, to look directly inside your bladder and urethra using a thin, lighted instrument called a cystoscope. It might be recommended to investigate symptoms like blood in the urine, frequent UTIs, bladder pain, or difficulty urinating. It can also be used to take biopsies or perform minor treatments. She will explain the procedure and any preparation needed.
- When should I consider seeing a Urologist?
- You should consider seeing a Urologist if you experience symptoms such as blood in your urine (hematuria), recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), difficulty urinating (hesitancy, weak stream, straining), frequent or urgent need to urinate, urinary incontinence (leakage), pain in the flank, lower abdomen, or groin that might be related to kidney stones, or any concerns related to the male reproductive organs (e.g., testicular pain/lumps, erectile dysfunction, male infertility). Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to a urologist like Dr. Dr. Liang is appropriate.
- What can be done for urinary incontinence?
- Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) is a common and often treatable condition. Treatment depends on the type of incontinence (stress, urge, mixed, overflow). Options may include lifestyle changes (e.g., fluid management, bladder training), pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels), medications, medical devices (like pessaries for women), nerve stimulation, or surgical procedures (such as sling surgery for stress incontinence). Dr. Dr. Liang can help determine the cause and best treatment plan for you.
Contact & Licensing Information
McMaster University
50 Charlton Ave E, Department of Cardiology
Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6
Phone: (905) 522-1155 | Fax: (905) 521-1751
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Liang is a licensed Urologist 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. Liang for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Liang-Lorraine-MinShan/0327372-118579