Dr. Stephen L. Cassar is a highly skilled Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, committed to excellence in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. Based at a specialized plastic surgery clinic in Medicine Hat in Medicine Hat, AB, he serves a diverse patient population seeking expert plastic surgical care. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Cassar offers a comprehensive range of services, addressing both functional restoration and cosmetic enhancement. He is adept at procedures such as breast reconstruction, skin cancer treatment, trauma repair, as well as aesthetic surgeries including facelifts, breast augmentation, and body contouring. His particular focus involves specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 1987 and is an experienced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive postgraduate training. Dr. Cassar has completed rigorous postgraduate education and holds the necessary certifications to practice plastic and reconstructive surgery in Alberta, including certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His training encompasses a wide spectrum of reconstructive and aesthetic procedures, ensuring that patients receive expert care tailored to their individual needs.
Driven by a philosophy of achieving natural-looking, harmonious results that align with each patient’s personal goals, Dr. Cassar prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality in a supportive environment. He conducts thorough consultations to ensure patients are fully informed and empowered in their decision-making process. Utilizing the latest proven techniques in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, he remains dedicated to ongoing education and refinement of his surgical skills. Fluent in French, he is able to effectively communicate with a diverse patient base and provide personalized care in both languages. His commitment is to the well-being of his patients in Medicine Hat and the surrounding communities.
Dr. Stephen Cassar addresses a wide array of conditions requiring plastic and reconstructive expertise, including:
Reconstructive Surgery (Trauma, Burns, Post-Mastectomy)
Dr. Cassar addresses utilizing advanced techniques like microsurgery, tissue transfer, and skin grafting for challenging reconstructive needs.
- Facial Trauma and Lacerations: Focus on restoring normal appearance and function, minimizing scarring.
- Breast Reconstruction (Post-Mastectomy or Lumpectomy): Often performed in stages and can include nipple and areola reconstruction.
- Scar Revision and Contracture Release: Techniques include scar excision, Z-plasty, W-plasty, skin grafting, or tissue expansion to release contractures.
Skin Cancer and Benign Skin Lesion Removal
Dr. Cassar addresses excision of skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, often with reconstructive closure.
- Benign Skin Lesions (e.g., Cysts, Lipomas, Moles/Nevi, Skin Tags): Surgical removal of non-cancerous skin growths for cosmetic reasons, discomfort, irritation, or diagnostic uncertainty.
- Melanoma Excision and Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Surgical removal of melanoma (a serious form of skin cancer) with appropriate safety margins.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Excision: Techniques include simple excision, Mohs micrographic surgery (performed by Mohs surgeons, plastic surgeons do reconstruction), or curettage and electrodesiccation.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your specific needs, a consultation with Dr. Stephen Cassar is essential.
- Reconstructive Surgery Planning (Post-Trauma, Post-Cancer, Congenital): Multidisciplinary approach often involving collaboration with other specialists.
- Lower Extremity Reconstruction: Surgical management of complex wounds, soft tissue defects, or bone exposure in the legs, ankles, and feet.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up for Plastic Surgery: Attentive monitoring of healing and recovery following plastic surgery procedures.
- Breast Reconstruction (Implant or Autologous Tissue): Often involves multiple stages, including nipple and areola reconstruction.
- Hand Surgery (Reconstructive and Trauma): Surgical treatment for injuries to tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and bones of the hand.
- Facial Reconstruction (Post-Trauma or Cancer): Complex procedures aiming to restore facial form, symmetry, and function.
- Pre-operative Assessment for Plastic Surgery: Detailed review of medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific procedures and suitability are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Cassar.
All plastic and reconstructive surgery services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS) and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada guidelines. A referral from a physician may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures.
Dr. Cassar's practice is located at a specialized plastic surgery clinic situated in the heart of Medicine Hat's vibrant Downtown area, near the SE Hill and River Flats neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently positioned close to the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede Grounds, making it accessible for local residents and visitors alike. Patients can easily reach the clinic via Medicine Hat Transit or by personal vehicle, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a private, professional environment for consultations and procedures. The clinic's location in a central, well-connected part of Medicine Hat ensures that patients receive expert care in a setting that prioritizes privacy, safety, and convenience.
- Why is it important for a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Cassar to be board-certified?
- Choosing a board-certified Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Cassar (typically designated FRCSC in Canada) ensures that he has met rigorous training and examination standards specifically in the field of plastic surgery. This certification demonstrates a commitment to patient safety, ethical practice, and a high level of skill in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
- What are some common procedures performed by a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Cassar?
- As a Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Cassar is skilled in numerous operations. These can range from reconstructive work like repairing burn scars or facial trauma, to cosmetic enhancements such as rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and various breast surgeries. A Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.
- What is the typical recovery time after plastic surgery with Dr. Cassar?
- Recovery time after plastic surgery performed by Dr. Cassar varies significantly depending on the type and extent of the procedure(s), as well as individual healing factors. For example, recovery from a major procedure like a tummy tuck or body lift will be longer (several weeks to months) than from a minor skin lesion removal or some injectable treatments. Dr. Cassar will provide detailed post-operative instructions and a personalized recovery timeline during your consultation.
- What does a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Cassar specialize in?
- Dr. Cassar is a Plastic Surgeon with expertise in a broad range of surgical procedures. This includes reconstructive surgery to restore form and function, and cosmetic surgery to improve aesthetic appearance. He specializes in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.
- Why is a consultation with Dr. Cassar important before deciding on a procedure?
- A consultation with Dr. Cassar is a crucial first step. It allows him to understand your goals and concerns, assess your medical history and anatomy, and discuss all suitable treatment options, including potential risks and benefits. This personalized assessment ensures that you can make an informed decision and that the chosen procedure is tailored to achieve the best possible and safest outcome for you.
a specialized plastic surgery clinic in Medicine Hat
220-579 3 St SE, Gaslight Plaza
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0H2
Office Phone: (403) 529-1770 | Office Fax: (403) 529-1178
Dr. Cassar is a licensed Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). For cosmetic procedures, a referral is often not required, but it's advisable to discuss with your family doctor. Please contact the office for details.
Verify Dr. Cassar's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=6be0264a-739a-4b23-a7db-bac2c954de8b&i=249