Dr. Robert Neil Gowing – General Surgeon | Woodbridge, ON

Dr. Robert Neil Gowing is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Woodbridge and performing surgeries at Hamilton Health Sciences Hospital in Woodbridge, ON, 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 Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective patient care. Dr. Gowing has extensive expertise in 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. His approach is centered on providing high-quality, patient-focused care from initial consultation through post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has over 14 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 2010. Dr. Gowing is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of surgical practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Gowing's professional philosophy emphasizes providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care with a patient-centered approach. He is dedicated to ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making with his patients. Whenever appropriate, he utilizes minimally invasive techniques to promote faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and remains committed to surgical excellence for the community of Woodbridge. All consultations and surgical care are provided in English, with a focus on compassionate and personalized service.

Dr. Robert Gowing provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

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

• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is a common treatment.
• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a medical emergency typically requiring surgical removal (appendectomy).

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Gowing addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.

• Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Distal pancreatectomy for tumors in the body or tail of the pancreas.
• Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Surgical removal of cancerous nodules or the entire thyroid gland (thyroidectomy).
• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: Often part of a multimodal treatment approach with chemotherapy and/or radiation.

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

• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Often used for screening for colorectal cancer or investigating symptoms related to the lower bowel.
• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Performed for conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), or bowel obstruction.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands (typically for hyperparathyroidism).

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. Gowing.

All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Gowing practices primarily at a well-equipped surgical clinic located in the heart of Woodbridge, within a modern medical facility that offers a welcoming environment for consultations and follow-up care. His clinic is situated in close proximity to major healthcare facilities and is easily accessible via local public transit routes. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a professional setting dedicated to high-quality care, with ample parking available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, including designated accessible parking spaces. This location provides a convenient and comfortable environment for patients to discuss their health concerns and undergo surgical procedures when necessary.

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

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Gowing is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Gowing 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.

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

A surgical consultation with Dr. Gowing doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Gowing to assess your condition thoroughly, review any tests, and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment, or if alternative non-operative options should be considered. The final decision is typically made collaboratively between you and Dr. Gowing after weighing the potential risks and benefits.

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

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

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Gowing ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Gowing 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. Gowing 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 does a General Surgeon like Dr. Gowing do?

Dr. Gowing, 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.

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

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Gowing 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.

220-4600 Highway 7
Woodbridge, ON L4L 4Y7

Clinic Phone: (705) 915-3100 | Clinic Fax: (905) 629-1654

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

Dr. Gowing is a licensed General 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 or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Gowing for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Gowing's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Gowing-Robert-Neil/0220714-82610