Dr. Ulana Bohdanka Kawun – General Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Ulana Bohdanka Kawun is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Toronto and performing surgeries at Scarborough Health Network Centenary Hospital in Toronto, ON, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). She has expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. She performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. The practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, employing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

Dr. Kawun graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada. With over 21 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 2003, she brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to her patients. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring her adherence to rigorous professional standards and ongoing education in her field.

Her professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care through a patient-centered approach. Dr. Kawun emphasizes clear communication and shared decision-making, utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery. She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive patient management and remains dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. Fluent in both English and Ukrainian, she effectively communicates with a diverse patient population in Toronto, ensuring compassionate and accessible care.

Dr. Ulana Kawun provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Kawun addresses a range of disorders affecting organs within the abdomen, including the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and colon.

• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Surgical repair is often recommended to prevent pain and complications like strangulation.
• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Kawun addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.

• Breast Cancer: Surgical treatment options including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast).
• Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): Reconstructive techniques may be used for larger excisions.

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

• Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Endocrine surgical procedures requiring careful dissection and nerve preservation.
• 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.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible camera.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A less extensive examination compared to a full colonoscopy.
• Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.

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. Kawun.

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. Kawun's primary clinic is located at a well-equipped surgical facility in Toronto's vibrant Guildwood, Morningside, West Hill neighborhood. The practice is conveniently situated near Toronto Eaton Centre and is easily accessible by TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Surgical procedures are typically performed at Scarborough Health Network Centenary Hospital, which is equipped with modern operating theatres. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a professional, caring environment for consultations, follow-up surgical care, and post-operative support. Ample parking options are usually available nearby, including accessible parking for those with mobility needs.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Kawun do?

Dr. Kawun, 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. Kawun?

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Kawun 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.

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

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

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Kawun perform?

Dr. Kawun, 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. Kawun may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Kawun ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Kawun 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. Kawun has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise her 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. Kawun?

Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Kawun varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. Kawun will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.

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

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

2863 Ellesmere Road
Toronto, ON M1E 5E9

Clinic Phone: (416) 283-7338 | Clinic Fax: (416) 283-4083

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

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

Verify Dr. Kawun's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kawun-Ulana-Bohdanka/0149917-72378