Dr. Savtaj Singh Brar – General Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Savtaj Singh Brar is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at Merivale Medical Centre and performing surgeries at Sinai Health System Hospital in Toronto, 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). Dr. Brar 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 patient-centered, ensuring high-quality care from initial consultation through post-operative recovery, employing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada and has accumulated over 15 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 2009. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), which affirms his expertise and commitment to surgical excellence. His certification and ongoing professional development ensure that he remains at the forefront of surgical advancements and best practices.

Dr. Brar is dedicated to providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Whenever appropriate, he utilizes minimally invasive techniques to promote quicker recovery and reduced discomfort. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is committed to ongoing professional development. Fluent in English and Punjabi, Dr. Brar can effectively communicate with a diverse patient population, ensuring that all patients are well-informed and comfortable throughout their surgical journey.

Dr. Savtaj Brar provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Brar addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.

• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Surgical repair is often recommended to prevent pain and complications like strangulation.
• Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits; severe cases may require surgery.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

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

• Breast Cancer: Part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan including radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.

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

• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical removal of the appendix, typically for acute appendicitis.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Thorough evaluation of patient fitness for surgery and detailed surgical planning.
• General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Often involves coordination with oncologists and plastic surgeons for comprehensive breast cancer care.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Often used for screening for colorectal cancer or investigating symptoms related to the lower bowel.

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. Brar.

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. Brar's primary clinic is located at Merivale Medical Centre in Toronto's Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood. Surgical procedures are typically performed at Sinai Health System Hospital, which is accessible via public transportation and has designated parking facilities, including accessible spots. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. The practice offers a professional, welcoming environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Patients can generally find parking at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with convenient access via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus).

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Brar perform?

As a General Surgeon, Dr. Brar is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures. Common operations include appendectomies (appendix removal), cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, bowel resections (for conditions like cancer or diverticulitis), thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and surgeries for breast conditions. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques, which often lead to quicker recovery. The specific procedures offered depend on Dr. Brar’s areas of focus within general surgery.

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

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Brar 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.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Brar do?

Dr. Brar, 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.

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

It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Brar to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. Brar would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.

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

A surgical consultation with Dr. Brar doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Brar 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. Brar after weighing the potential risks and benefits.

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

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

Merivale Medical Centre
Suite 3, 600 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 1X5

Clinic Phone: (416) 586-4800 | Clinic Fax: (416) 712-4747

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

Dr. Brar 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. Brar for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Brar's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Brar-Savtaj-Singh/0210015-84090