About
Dr. Vivian Hoi Yan Ma is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Langley and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Langley, BC, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Dr. Ma adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). 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. Her practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.
She graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2016 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. Dr. Ma also maintains certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training and credentials reflect her commitment to surgical excellence and ongoing professional development, ensuring she remains current with the latest advancements and guidelines in surgical care.
Dr. Ma’s professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Whenever appropriate, she utilizes minimally invasive techniques to promote quicker recoveries. She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional growth. Fluent in English and Cantonese, Dr. Ma effectively communicates with a diverse patient population, ensuring everyone feels informed and comfortable throughout their surgical journey.
Dr. Vivian Ma provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Ma addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Emergency surgery to repair perforated ulcers or control massive bleeding.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Ma addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.
- Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): May include sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma to guide further treatment.
- Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Distal pancreatectomy for tumors in the body or tail of the pancreas.
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Vivian Ma is necessary.
- Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Consultations to help patients make informed decisions about their surgical care.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
- Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible camera.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Providing follow-up appointments to assess healing and long-term outcomes.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
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. Ma.
All surgical 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 Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Ma’s primary clinic is located at a reputable surgical clinic in the heart of Langley, BC. The clinic is situated in a well-established medical building within Langley's healthcare district, providing easy access for patients from the surrounding community. The clinic’s location offers convenient parking options, including accessible parking, and is close to major healthcare facilities and public transit routes. The environment is professional, welcoming, and designed for patient comfort, privacy, and effective consultation. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals, which are equipped with modern facilities and adhere to strict safety standards. The practice emphasizes a comprehensive, patient-centered approach, ensuring that patients receive thorough pre-operative assessments, clear explanations of procedures, and attentive post-operative care. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to foster a safe and comfortable experience for all patients.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Ma?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Ma doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Ma 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. Ma after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Ma do?
- Dr. Ma, 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.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Ma?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Ma is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Ma 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 General Surgeons like Dr. Ma ever specialize further?
- Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Ma 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. Ma 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.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Ma?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. Ma if your primary care physician identifies a condition that might benefit from surgical intervention or a specialist surgical opinion. Common reasons include issues like gallstones, appendicitis, hernias, bowel problems, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, or certain skin lesions. General surgeons also perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or biopsies to help confirm a diagnosis before planning surgery.
305-5171 221A St
Langley, BC V2Y 0A2
Clinic Phone: (604) 534-9288
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Ma is a licensed General 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. Ma for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).
Verify Dr. Ma's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/341285/Ma%2CVivian