Dr. Seungchan Lee – Vascular Surgeon / Phlebologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Seungchan Lee is a highly skilled Vascular Surgeon, dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the vascular system (arteries, veins, and lymphatic circulation). His practice is based at a specialized vascular clinic in New Westminster, where he provides comprehensive management for a wide array of conditions including peripheral artery disease (PAD), aortic aneurysms, carotid artery stenosis (to prevent stroke), and venous disorders such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Dr. Lee utilizes a range of advanced medical therapies, minimally invasive endovascular procedures (like angioplasty and stenting), and traditional open surgical techniques to restore blood flow and improve patient outcomes. His approach emphasizes personalized care, combining state-of-the-art technology with a patient-centered philosophy to achieve optimal results.

He completed his medical education with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2011 and holds specialty certification as a Vascular Surgeon. Dr. Lee is credentialed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and adheres to the highest standards of practice and patient safety. He maintains active memberships in relevant professional organizations and stays current with the latest advancements in vascular and endovascular surgery, ensuring his patients receive the most effective and up-to-date treatments available.

Dr. Lee’s professional philosophy centers on providing state-of-the-art vascular care with a focus on patient safety, comfort, and outcomes. He believes in a patient-centered approach, involving individuals in understanding their vascular health, treatment options, and expected outcomes. He utilizes the least invasive effective techniques tailored to each patient's specific vascular problem and collaborates closely with referring physicians and other specialists for comprehensive management. Committed to ongoing learning, Dr. Lee continually incorporates new techniques and research into his practice. Fluent in English and Korean, he effectively communicates with a diverse patient population, ensuring clarity and comfort throughout the diagnostic and treatment process. His dedication to vascular health in the New Westminster community is evident in his compassionate care and professional expertise.

Dr. Seungchan Lee provides expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide spectrum of vascular conditions, including:

Arterial Occlusive and Stenotic Diseases

Dr. Lee treats conditions characterized by narrowing or blockage of arteries, restricting blood flow to vital organs and limbs.

• Mesenteric Ischemia (Acute or Chronic): Acute mesenteric ischemia is a surgical emergency requiring rapid revascularization.
• Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI): Multifactorial management including wound care, revascularization, and risk factor modification.

Aortic and Other Arterial Aneurysmal Diseases

Dr. Lee treats conditions involving abnormal dilation or bulging of arterial walls, primarily the aorta, posing a risk of rupture.

• Aortic Dissection: A medical emergency often presenting with severe, tearing chest or back pain.
• Peripheral Artery Aneurysms (e.g., Popliteal, Femoral): Can lead to thrombosis (clotting), embolization (clots traveling downstream), or rupture.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your vascular health, a consultation with Dr. Seungchan Lee is necessary.

• Upper Extremity Arterial Disease Management: Surgical bypass or endovascular therapy for conditions like subclavian steal syndrome or upper extremity claudication.
• Mesenteric Ischemia Treatment: Bypass grafting or stenting of mesenteric arteries.
• Aortic Aneurysm Repair (Open and Endovascular - EVAR/TEVAR/FEVAR): Minimally invasive endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR for abdominal, TEVAR for thoracic) using stent-grafts.
• Renal Artery Stenosis Treatment: Surgical bypass for complex renal artery disease.
• Carotid Artery Disease Surgery (Carotid Endarterectomy / Stenting): Carotid artery stenting as a minimally invasive alternative for select patients with carotid stenosis.
• Post-operative Vascular Care and Surveillance: Monitoring patients following vascular surgery or endovascular procedures for healing and potential complications.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific procedures are determined after thorough consultation with Dr. Lee.

All vascular surgical and endovascular 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 for Vascular Surgery (CSVS) guidelines and best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Lee practices at a specialized vascular clinic located in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster. The clinic offers a professional and patient-oriented environment dedicated to providing advanced vascular care. Complex surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated major hospitals in the region, equipped with state-of-the-art operating suites and comprehensive recovery facilities. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to ensure patient comfort and privacy. The location is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus), with parking available at or near the hospital and clinic, including designated accessible spots. The practice is conveniently situated close to Historic Downtown New Westminster, making it easy for patients to reach from various parts of the city and surrounding areas. The staff is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care in a welcoming setting.

What is the typical recovery after vascular surgery or an endovascular procedure by Dr. Lee?

The recovery period after a vascular intervention with Dr. Lee depends heavily on whether it's an open surgery or an endovascular (minimally invasive) procedure. Endovascular treatments usually mean a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to normal activities. Open surgeries, such as an open aortic aneurysm repair, are more extensive and require a longer convalescence. Dr. Lee will discuss your specific expected recovery timeline.

What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Lee?

As a Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Lee manages many conditions involving blood vessels. These frequently include blockages in arteries (atherosclerosis) affecting the legs, neck, or abdomen; aneurysms (weak, bulging arteries); problems with veins such as varicose veins or blood clots (DVT); and creating or repairing sites for dialysis access.

What is the difference between endovascular and open surgery, and does Dr. Lee perform both?

Open surgery involves making a traditional incision to directly access and repair the affected blood vessel (e.g., bypass grafting, aneurysm repair with a sewn-in graft). Endovascular surgery is minimally invasive, performed through small punctures in an artery (usually in the groin) using catheters, wires, balloons, and stents guided by imaging. Many Vascular Surgeons like Dr. Lee are skilled in both approaches and will recommend the best option based on your specific condition, anatomy, and overall health. You should discuss this with Dr. Lee.

What does a Vascular Surgeon like Dr. Lee specialize in?

Dr. Lee is a Vascular Surgeon, a physician with expertise in diseases of the circulatory system outside of the heart. This includes managing blockages in arteries (like peripheral artery disease or carotid artery disease), aneurysms (abnormal bulges in arteries like the aorta), varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and issues with dialysis access. They use medical therapy, catheter-based interventions, and traditional surgery to improve blood flow and prevent serious complications. A Vascular Surgeon, specializing in the diagnosis and comprehensive management of diseases affecting the arteries, veins, and lymphatic system, utilizing medical, endovascular, and open surgical techniques.

When should I be referred to a Vascular Surgeon like Dr. Lee?

Referral to a Vascular Surgeon like Dr. Lee is typically indicated if you have symptoms or diagnostic findings suggestive of significant arterial or venous disease. This might include: pain in your legs when walking (claudication), non-healing sores on your feet or legs, a diagnosis of an aortic or peripheral aneurysm, symptoms of a TIA ('mini-stroke') potentially related to carotid artery disease, severe varicose veins with complications, or problems with your dialysis access. Your family doctor or another specialist will usually make the referral.

Does Dr. Lee create or manage access for kidney dialysis?

Yes, creating and maintaining vascular access for hemodialysis is a key component of Vascular Surgery. Dr. Lee is skilled in performing procedures such as creating arteriovenous (AV) fistulas and placing AV grafts, which are essential for patients with kidney failure who require long-term dialysis. He also manages complications related to dialysis access, such as blockages or infections.

a specialized vascular clinic in New Westminster
208-301 Columbia St E
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W5

Clinic Phone: (604) 522-0060 | Clinic Fax: (604) 628-3867

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

Dr. Lee is a licensed Vascular 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. Lee for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).

Verify Dr. Lee's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/332407/Lee%2CSeungchan