Dr. Michael Gordon Brown – General Surgeon | Victoria, BC

Dr. Michael Gordon Brown is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Victoria and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Victoria, BC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Brown’s role focuses on 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. 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.

He graduated with an MD from the University of Saskatchewan in 1975 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. Dr. Brown also maintains certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring his practice aligns with the latest standards and advancements in surgical care.

Dr. Brown's professional philosophy is rooted in a commitment to providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, he aims to optimize recovery and outcomes. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. His goal is to deliver compassionate, expert surgical care to the community of Victoria, providing consultations and post-operative care in English.

Dr. Michael Brown provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

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

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Procedures may include bowel resection, strictureplasty, or colectomy with ostomy or pouch creation.
• Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Blockage that prevents food or liquid from passing through the small intestine or large intestine (colon).
• Appendicitis: If untreated, can lead to rupture and peritonitis.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Brown addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.

• Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): Reconstructive techniques may be used for larger excisions.
• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Aim is to achieve wide, clear surgical margins to prevent local recurrence.

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

• Sigmoidoscopy: Examination of the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a flexible or rigid scope.
• Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Consultations to help patients make informed decisions about their surgical care.
• Colonoscopy: An important procedure for preventing and detecting colon cancer.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible camera.
• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Monitoring recovery after surgical procedures, managing potential complications.
• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Emergency or elective procedure to treat an inflamed or infected appendix.

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. Brown.

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. Brown's primary practice is located at a reputable surgical clinic in Victoria, situated in the vibrant Quadra Village and Topaz Park Area neighborhood. The clinic serves as a welcoming environment for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated hospitals in Victoria, which are equipped with modern surgical suites and recovery areas. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. The practice benefits from proximity to notable landmarks such as Craigdarroch Castle (nearby) and is easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Patients can usually find convenient parking options near the surgical practice, including accessible parking. The environment is professional, welcoming, and dedicated to providing personalized care for each patient’s needs.

Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Brown?

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Brown 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. Brown will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

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

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

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Brown ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Brown 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. Brown has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise him brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.

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

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Brown is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Brown 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 types of surgical procedures does Dr. Brown perform?

Dr. Brown, 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. Brown 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. Brown?

You would typically be referred to Dr. Brown if your primary care physician identifies a condition that might benefit from surgical intervention or a specialist surgical opinion. Common reasons include issues like gallstones, appendicitis, hernias, bowel problems, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, or certain skin lesions. General surgeons also perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or biopsies to help confirm a diagnosis before planning surgery.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Brown do?

Dr. Brown, 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.

991 Carolwood Dr
Victoria, BC V8X 3T9

Clinic Phone: (250) 727-3887 | Clinic Fax: (250) 727-3357

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

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

Verify Dr. Brown's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/349240/Brown%2CMichael