Toronto Melanoma Surgeon Finder
β FEATURED SURGEON
π₯ The Minor Surgery Center (TMSC)
π
Multiple Locations - Toronto, Oakville, Vaughan, Mississauga
π Education & Training:
β’ University of Manitoba Faculty of Medicine (2008)
β’ University of Toronto - Plastic Surgery Residency (2013)
β’ Oculoplastic & Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship, Atlanta, GA (2014)
β’ Hand & Wrist Surgery Fellowship, University of Toronto (2014)
β’ π Best Doctors 2025
Melanoma Surgery
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Mole Removal
Facial Surgery
No Referral Needed
π£οΈ Languages: English, French, Hindi
Toronto
2920 Dufferin St, Suite 202
Toronto, ON M6B 3S8
Oakville
3075 Hospital Gate, Unit 109
Oakville, ON L6M 1M1
Vaughan
2701 Rutherford Rd, Building C
Vaughan, ON L4K 2N6
β FEATURED SURGEON
π₯ The Minor Surgery Center (TMSC)
π
Multiple Locations - Toronto, Oakville, Vaughan, Mississauga
π Education & Training:
β’ McMaster University Faculty of Medicine (2008)
β’ University of Toronto - Plastic Surgery Residency (2013)
β’ Breast/Microsurgery Fellowship, Melbourne, Australia (2014)
β’ Fellowship with Dr. Bryan Mendelson (world-renowned facial plastic surgeon)
β’ Active Staff at Trillium Health Partners
β’ Lecturer, University of Toronto Department of Surgery
β’ π Best Doctors 2025
Melanoma Surgery
Skin Cancer Treatment
Reconstructive Surgery
Facial Aesthetics
Breast Reconstruction
Microsurgery
No Referral Needed
π£οΈ Languages: English, Italian
Toronto
2920 Dufferin St, Suite 202
Toronto, ON M6B 3S8
Oakville
3075 Hospital Gate, Unit 109
Oakville, ON L6M 1M1
Vaughan
2701 Rutherford Rd, Building C
Vaughan, ON L4K 2N6
π₯ Ontario's Leading Facial Skin Cancer Clinic
π
187 Carlton Street, Toronto, ON M5A 2K7
π
(289) 301-3081
π¨ββοΈ Expert Mohs Surgeons & Dermatologists:
β’ Dr. Murray - Associate Professor, University of Toronto, ACMS Fellowship Director
β’ Dr. Nowell Solish - Assistant Professor, Co-director Non-Melanoma Clinic, Women's College
β’ Dr. Yuanshen Huang - Dual board-certified (Canada/US), Mohs Surgeon
β’ Dr. Roxana Mititelu - Dual board-certified (Canada/US), Mohs Surgeon
β’ Dr. Bhavik Mistry - Double board-certified (Canada/US), Mohs Surgeon
β’ Dr. Rob Bobotsis - Faculty at University of Toronto, Mohs Surgeon
Mohs Surgery
Facial Skin Cancer
Melanoma
97-99% Cure Rate
Rapid Access Clinic
On-site Lab
Specialty: Only facility in Ontario with Mohs Surgeons and Plastic Surgeons working together. Mohs surgery has the highest success rate of all skin cancer treatments (97-99%).
π₯ World-Renowned Cancer Treatment Center
π
610 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9
π
Contact clinic 9am-4pm
π¨ββοΈ Medical Oncologists:
β’ Dr. David Hogg, MD - Senior Physician, Melanoma & Skin Cancer Site
β’ Dr. Marcus Butler, MD - Medical Oncologist, Assistant Professor UofT
π§ marcus.butler@uhn.ca | π (416) 946-4501 ext. 5485
β’ Dr. Anthony Joshua, MD - Medical Oncologist
β’ Dr. Krema, MD - Ocular Melanoma Specialist | π (416) 946-4545
Advanced Melanoma Treatment
Clinical Trials
Immunotherapy
Targeted Therapy
Ocular Melanoma
Multidisciplinary Care
β οΈ Note: Referral required from family physician or specialist.
π₯ Comprehensive Melanoma Care
π
2075 Bayview Avenue, T-Wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5
π¨ββοΈ Multidisciplinary Team:
Melanoma Surgeons:
β’ Dr. Frances Wright - Surgical Oncologist
β’ Dr. Nicole Look Hong - Surgical Oncologist
Medical Oncologists:
β’ Dr. Teresa Petrella - Lead Melanoma Oncologist
β’ Dr. Rossanna Pezo
Plastic Surgeons:
β’ Dr. Laura Snell β’ Dr. Joan Lipa
Dermatologists:
β’ Dr. Wadid Abadir β’ Dr. Mary McKenzie
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
Rapid Access Clinic
Total Body Photography
Mole Mapping
Skin Grafts
Radiation Therapy
π₯ Specialized Minor Surgery Center
π
4025 Yonge Street, Suite 205, Toronto, ON M2P 2E3
π
(416) 663-7407
π
Monday-Friday: 8am-4pm
π¨ββοΈ Surgeons:
β’ Dr. Robert Backstein, MD, FRCSC - Royal College-certified Plastic Surgeon
β’ Dr. Richard Backstein, MD, FRCSC - Royal College-certified Plastic Surgeon
Melanoma Surgery
Skin Cancer Surgery
Mole Removal
Cyst Removal
Benign Lesions
Malignant Lesions
Patient Testimonial: "Dr. Backstein treated my melanoma during the beginning phases of Covid when no other doctor would see me, so he likely saved my life." - Patient Review
π₯ Comprehensive Dermatology Care
π¨ββοΈ Dermatologists:
β’ Dr. Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC, FAAD - Board-certified, Award-winning Dermatologist
β’ Dr. Anatoli Freiman, MD, FRCPC - Board-certified Dermatologist
β’ Dr. Robert Backstein - Plastic Surgeon (also with Centre for Minor Surgery)
β’ Dr. Xiao Yang, MD, FAAD - Dermatologist
Malignant Melanoma
Skin Cancer Treatment
Medical Dermatology
Surgical Dermatology
Cosmetic Procedures
π No surgeons found
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The Complete Guide to Finding the Best Melanoma Surgeons in Toronto (2025)
Expert Melanoma Treatment & Skin Cancer Surgery in the GTA
Finding the right melanoma surgeon can be life-saving. With melanoma rates rising dramatically in Canadaβan estimated 11,300 new cases diagnosed in 2024 alone, representing a 17% increase from 2023βaccess to expert care has never been more critical. Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are fortunate to host some of Canada's leading melanoma specialists, state-of-the-art cancer centers, and innovative treatment facilities.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about melanoma surgeons in Toronto, including detailed profiles of top specialists, treatment options, clinic locations, and essential information to help you make informed decisions about your melanoma care.
Understanding Melanoma: Why Expert Care Matters
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, responsible for approximately 80% of all skin cancer deaths despite accounting for only 4% of skin cancer cases. In Canada, melanoma has become the seventh most commonly diagnosed cancer, with 1,300 deaths expected in 2024. However, there's encouraging news: since 2013, melanoma mortality rates in Canada have been declining for the first time, thanks to advances in treatment and earlier detection.
The key to successful melanoma treatment lies in three factors:
- Early detection and diagnosis
- Access to experienced, board-certified surgeons
- Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care
Melanoma Statistics in Toronto and Canada
According to the latest data, the lifetime risk of developing melanoma is 1 in 42 for men and 1 in 56 for women in Canada. Toronto residents specifically face a 16% higher risk than Montreal residents, likely due to geographic and UV radiation exposure patterns.
Between 2011 and 2017, the national crude melanoma incidence rate was 20.75 cases per 100,000 individuals per year, with southern Ontario showing particularly high rates. The good news: survival rates are excellent when melanoma is caught early, with melanomas less than 1mm thick rarely spreading.
The Minor Surgery Center (TMSC) - Ontario's Largest Minor Surgery Practice
Why TMSC Stands Out
The Minor Surgery Center operates four locations across the GTA and boasts Ontario's largest team of surgeons dedicated to minor skin and hand procedures. What sets TMSC apart is their commitment to eliminating the traditional healthcare bottleneck: long wait times.
Key Advantages:
- No referral required - direct access to board-certified plastic surgeons
- Same-day consultations and procedures available
- Free initial consultation with board-certified surgeons
- Extended hours - Toronto location open until 8 PM
- Multiple convenient locations across the GTA
- Over 10,000 patients treated successfully
TMSC Locations
Toronto (Main Location)
- Address: 2920 Dufferin Street, Suite 202, Toronto, ON M6B 3S8
- Phone: (647) 614-1611
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, extended hours until 8 PM
- Rating: 4.8/5 stars (342+ Google reviews)
Oakville Location
- Address: 3075 Hospital Gate, Unit 109, Oakville, ON L6M 1M1
- Rating: 5.0/5 stars (173+ reviews)
Vaughan Location
- Address: 2701 Rutherford Road, Building C, Vaughan, ON L4K 2N6
- Serving: Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Newmarket
Mississauga Location
- Address: 1224 Dundas Street West, Unit 101, Mississauga, ON
- Serving: Mississauga, Brampton, Burlington, Milton
Contact Information:
- Phone: (647) 614-1611
- Fax: 1 (888) 520-8818
- Email: info@torontominorsurgery.com
- Websites: www.torontominorsurgery.com | www.theminorsurgerycenter.com
Meet the Founding Surgeons
Dr. Kunaal Jindal, MD, FRCSC
Dr. Jindal completed his medical education at the University of Manitoba before undertaking a five-year residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of Toronto, where he became a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His advanced fellowship training includes:
- Oculoplastic and Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship, Atlanta, Georgia
- Hand & Wrist Surgery Fellowship, Toronto Western Hospital
Areas of Expertise:
- Melanoma and skin cancer surgery
- Basal cell carcinoma removal
- Squamous cell carcinoma treatment
- Complex skin lesion excision
- Reconstructive surgery
- Aesthetic facial surgery
Languages: English, French, Hindi
Recognition: Named to Best Doctors 2025
Dr. Jindal is particularly respected for his meticulous surgical technique and commitment to minimizing scarring while ensuring complete cancer removal.
Dr. Roberto Tutino, MD, FRCSC
Dr. Tutino graduated from McMaster University's Faculty of Medicine in 2008 and completed his five-year Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery residency at the University of Toronto. He pursued advanced fellowship training including:
- Breast/Microsurgery Fellowship in Melbourne, Australia
- Fellowship with Dr. Bryan Mendelson, world-renowned facial plastic surgeon
Current Academic Positions:
- Active staff at Trillium Health Partners
- Leader of one of Canada's largest Breast Reconstructive Surgery Programs
- Lecturer at University of Toronto Department of Surgery
Specializations:
- Melanoma surgery and skin cancer treatment
- Comprehensive skin cancer management
- Breast reconstruction
- Facial aesthetic and reconstructive surgery
- Microsurgery
Languages: English, Italian
Recognition: Best Doctors 2025
Recent patient reviews highlight Dr. Tutino's expertise, with one patient noting: "Dr. Tutino is outstanding and knowledgeable. I came to him for my cyst removal and mole removals on my face. I am beyond happy with my results."
Additional TMSC Surgical Team
TMSC has expanded to include over 25 board-certified surgeons with training from prestigious institutions including McGill, McMaster, Queen's, University of British Columbia, University of Toronto, Yale, Mayo Clinic, and Oxford.
Notable team members include:
Dr. Alana Hosein, FRCSC
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada
- McMaster Medical School graduate (2005)
- Subspecialty: Breast Surgical Oncology, University of Toronto
- Breast Disease Site Lead, Division of Oncology at Trillium Health Partners
- Assistant Professor, University of Toronto
- Expertise: Benign and malignant skin diseases
Dr. Michael Shafarenko, FRCSC
- University of Toronto Medical Degree and Plastic Surgery Residency
- Fellowship: Microvascular Surgery, MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Expertise: Oncologic reconstruction, comprehensive cancer surgery
Dr. Eric Tai
- Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery specialist
- Facial Plastic Surgery Fellow
- Hospital privileges at Lakeridge Health, Oshawa
- Expertise: Minor procedures with comprehensive care access
Patient Experience at TMSC
With a 4.8/5 star rating from over 342 Google reviews at the Toronto location alone, TMSC has established an excellent reputation for patient care. Recent patient testimonials emphasize:
- Professional, caring staff
- Efficient same-day procedures
- Minimal wait times
- Excellent surgical outcomes with minimal scarring
- Clear communication and explanations
Carlton Skin Clinic: Ontario's Premier Mohs Surgery Center
Specialized Facial Skin Cancer Treatment
Carlton Skin Clinic is Ontario's only facility where Mohs surgeons and plastic surgeons work collaboratively, specializing in facial skin cancer treatment with the highest cure rates available.
Location: 187 Carlton Street, Toronto, ON M5A 2K7
Contact:
- Phone: (289) 301-3011
- Fax: (289) 301-3081
- Email: contact@carltonskinclinic.ca
- Website: www.carltonskinclinic.ca
Rating: 4.7/5 stars (4.9/5 on some platforms)
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery achieves a 97-99% cure rate for skin cancerβthe highest success rate of all treatments. The technique preserves normal skin around the cancer, limiting tissue removal and minimizing scarring. The Mohs surgeon performs three critical roles:
- Surgeon - Removes the cancer with precision
- Pathologist - Examines tissue under microscope immediately
- Reconstructive specialist - Repairs the wound to minimize scarring
Carlton Skin Clinic Surgical Team
Dr. Murray, MD, FRCSC
Dr. Murray is an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto and serves as the director of the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) accredited fellowship program. His credentials include:
- Board certification in Canada and the United States
- Founding member, Canadian Association of Mohs Surgeons (CAMS)
- Past president, Canadian Society for Dermatologic Surgery (CSDS)
- Education from McGill, Dalhousie, University of Toronto, and UBC
- Teaches resident physicians at Women's College Hospital
His research focuses on skin cancer cost-effectiveness and quality of life outcomes.
Dr. Nowell Solish, MD, FRCPC
Dr. Solish serves as Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and is co-director of the Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Clinic at Women's College Hospital. Additional roles:
- Past president, Canadian Society of Dermatologic Surgery
- Founding board member, International Hyperhidrosis Society
- Director of Dermatologic Surgery, University of Toronto
- Former co-director of undergraduate dermatology curriculum
Dr. Solish is a recognized media spokesperson on dermatologic surgery, appearing on ABC News, CBC, Global Television, and more.
Dr. Yuanshen Huang, MD, PhD, FRCPC
Dr. Huang holds dual board certification in dermatology and Mohs surgery in both Canada and the United States. Her impressive background includes:
- MD from Peking University
- PhD from University of British Columbia
- Dermatology residency, University of Toronto
- ACMS-accredited Mohs fellowship, University of Toronto
- Published in prestigious journals including New England Journal of Medicine
- Recipient: Vanier Scholarship, World Congress of Dermatology Rising Star Award
Dr. Roxana Mititelu, MD, FRCPC
Dr. Mititelu is dual board-certified in dermatology and Mohs surgery (Canada/US), graduating in the top 10% of her class from McGill University Medical School. Her achievements include:
- McGill dermatology residency with resident teaching award
- ACMS-accredited Mohs fellowship, University of Toronto
- Numerous peer-reviewed publications
- Research awards for skin cancer work
- Active member: American College of Mohs Surgeons, Canadian Dermatology Association
Dr. Bhavik Mistry, MD, FRCPC
Double board-certified dermatologist (Canada/US) specializing in Mohs surgery with faculty appointment at University of Toronto.
Dr. Rob Bobotsis, MD, FRCPC
Board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon with teaching responsibilities at University of Toronto.
Why Choose Carlton Skin Clinic
Patient reviews consistently praise the clinic's expertise, with one patient noting: "Dr. Murray was absolutely awesome. He put my fear to rest, and his bedside manner was second to none. His eye for perfection in reconstruction made me feel he cared about the visual aesthetics."
Another patient described their experience: "Dr. Huang successfully removed two large cancerous growths from my mom's nose and forehead, performing reconstruction surgery afterward. My mom healed very well with no complications."
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre: World-Class Comprehensive Melanoma Care
Canada's Premier Cancer Research and Treatment Center
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre is one of the largest cancer centers in the world and the second-largest in Canada. It offers the majority of its services to Greater Toronto Area residents and is renowned internationally for cancer research, education, and patient care.
Location: 610 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9
Contact:
- Clinic Hours: 9 AM - 4 PM
- After Hours CAREpath: 1-877-681-3057
- Website: www.uhn.ca/PrincessMargaret
Affiliation: University Health Network, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine
Melanoma & Skin Oncology Clinic
The Melanoma & Skin Oncology Clinic is dedicated to managing all forms of skin cancer with a team of world-renowned cancer experts. The clinic provides comprehensive care including:
- Advanced diagnostic procedures
- Surgical oncology
- Medical oncology
- Immunotherapy and targeted therapy
- Clinical trial access
- Psychosocial support services
Medical Oncology Team
Dr. David Hogg, MD
- Senior Physician, Melanoma and Skin Cancer Site
- Extensive experience in melanoma treatment
- Leader in clinical research
Dr. Marcus Butler, MD, FRCPC
- Medical Oncologist specializing in melanoma
- Assistant Professor, University of Toronto
- Email: marcus.butler@uhn.ca
- Phone: (416) 946-4501 ext. 5485
- Active in clinical trials and research
Dr. Anthony Joshua, MD
- Medical oncologist with melanoma expertise
- Research focus on advanced therapeutics
Dr. Krema, MD
- Ocular Melanoma Specialist
- Expert in rare melanoma presentations
Why Princess Margaret for Melanoma
- World-class reputation - Top 10 cancer center globally
- Cutting-edge treatments including latest immunotherapies
- Clinical trial access to experimental therapies
- Multidisciplinary approach with coordinated care
- Research excellence translating discoveries to patient care
- Comprehensive support including psychosocial services
Note: Referral from a physician is typically required for Princess Margaret services.
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: Rapid Access Melanoma Care
Odette Cancer Centre Excellence
Sunnybrook's Odette Cancer Centre Melanoma Clinic provides multidisciplinary care with the opportunity to see multiple specialists in one visit, allowing the clinical team to develop specific and timely treatment plans.
Location: 2075 Bayview Avenue, T-Wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5
Contact:
- Melanoma Clinic: (416) 480-4205
- General Hospital: (416) 480-5000
- Website: www.sunnybrook.ca
Reputation: Canada's largest trauma center with excellent cancer care reputation
Melanoma Rapid Diagnostic Unit (RDU)
Sunnybrook's innovative Rapid Diagnostic Unit allows patients to be seen simultaneously by a dermatologist and melanoma-dedicated surgical oncologist. Biopsies are performed the same day when appropriate, with diagnosis provided within approximately two weeks.
Comprehensive Melanoma Team
Surgical Oncology:
- Dr. Frances Wright - Melanoma surgical oncology expert
- Dr. Nicole Look Hong - Surgical oncologist specializing in skin cancer
Head & Neck Surgery:
- Dr. Kevin Higgins
- Dr. Danny Enepekides
- Dr. Antoine Eskander
Medical Oncology:
- Dr. Teresa Petrella - Lead melanoma medical oncologist
- Dr. Rossanna Pezo - Medical oncology specialist
- Dr. Ines Menjak - Melanoma medical oncology
Plastic Surgery:
- Dr. Laura Snell - Reconstructive surgery
- Dr. Joan Lipa - Complex reconstruction
Dermatology:
- Dr. Wadid Abadir - Dermatologic oncology
- Dr. Mary McKenzie - Skin cancer specialist
Unique Services at Sunnybrook
Sunnybrook is one of only a few cancer centers in Canada providing a digital photography program for prevention and surveillance of high-risk patients. This mole mapping technology allows for precise monitoring of concerning lesions over time.
Additional services include:
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- Total body photography
- Comprehensive multidisciplinary consultations
- Active clinical trial participation
- Digital mole mapping for high-risk patients
Centre for Minor Surgery: Established Toronto Practice
Experienced, Personalized Care
Location: 4025 Yonge Street, Suite 205, Toronto, ON M2P 2E3
Contact:
- Phone: (416) 663-9649
- Fax: (416) 663-7407
- Website: www.minorsurgery.ca
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 4 PM
Royal College-Certified Surgeons
Dr. Robert Backstein, MD, FRCSC
- Royal College-certified plastic surgeon
- Extensive melanoma treatment experience
- Proven track record of excellent outcomes
Dr. Richard Backstein, MD, FRCSC
- Royal College-certified plastic surgeon
- Specializes in skin cancer surgery
- Expert in benign and malignant lesion treatment
Patient Testimonials
One particularly moving review highlights the practice's commitment: "Dr. Backstein treated my melanoma during the beginning phases of Covid when no other doctor would see me, so he likely saved my life."
Services include melanoma treatment, skin cancer surgery, mole removal, cyst removal, and comprehensive management of skin lesions.
Toronto Dermatology Centre: Comprehensive Skin Cancer Care
Full-Spectrum Dermatology and Surgery
Main Contact:
- Phone: (416) 633-0001
- Cosmetic Clinic: (416) 551-3138
- Website: www.torontodermatologycentre.com
- Multiple locations throughout Toronto
Board-Certified Dermatology Team
Dr. Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC, FAAD
- Board-certified, award-winning dermatologist
- Expertise in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology
- Recognized leader in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment
Dr. Anatoli Freiman, MD, FRCPC
- Board-certified dermatologist
- Comprehensive skin cancer management
- Focus on early detection and prevention
Dr. Xiao Yang, MD, FAAD
- Board-certified dermatologist
- Melanoma diagnosis and treatment specialist
The centre also collaborates with Dr. Robert Backstein for complex surgical cases.
Services Provided
- Complete skin cancer screening and diagnosis
- Melanoma surgical excision
- Non-melanoma skin cancer treatment
- Mole mapping and monitoring
- Preventive dermatology
- Patient education programs
Understanding Melanoma Treatment Options in Canada
Current Treatment Landscape (2025)
Melanoma can be treated with surgery, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy, with chemotherapy sometimes used for specific cases. The treatment landscape has evolved dramatically in recent years, offering hope even for advanced disease.
Surgery: The Foundation of Melanoma Treatment
Surgery is the standard treatment for early-stage melanoma and is often the only treatment needed. A wide local excision removes the tumor and a small amount of healthy tissue around it. The surgical margin size depends on tumor thickness and location.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB): SLNB may be offered for melanomas more than 1mm thick, or for slightly thinner tumors (0.8-1mm) with high-risk features like ulceration or high mitotic rate.
Immunotherapy: Revolutionary Treatment Advances
Immunotherapy helps strengthen or restore the immune system's ability to fight cancer and is commonly offered for metastatic melanoma to help shrink and control growth. Common immunotherapy drugs include:
- Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)
- Nivolumab (Opdivo)
- Ipilimumab (Yervoy)
- Combined nivolumab and ipilimumab
Targeted Therapy for BRAF Mutations
Targeted therapy is available for patients whose melanoma has specific genetic changes such as BRAF V600 mutations. Currently approved targeted therapies in Canada include vemurafenib, dabrafenib, and trametinib.
Common combinations:
- Dabrafenib (Tafinlar) + Trametinib (Mekinist)
- Vemurafenib (Zelboraf) + Cobimetinib (Cotellic)
- Encorafenib (Braftovi) + Binimetinib
Breakthrough: TIL Therapy Now Available in Canada
In August 2025, Health Canada approved Amtagvi (lifileucel), a tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, for advanced melanoma. This is the first T-cell therapy for solid tumors approved in Canada.
Clinical trial data showed an objective response rate of 31.4% with a median duration of response of 36.5 months in patients with advanced melanoma who had progressed on prior therapies. This represents a significant advancement for patients with limited treatment options.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It's sometimes used after surgery to relieve symptoms or to treat melanoma that has spread to the brain.
Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Therapy
Neoadjuvant therapy is an emerging approach that helps the immune system fight melanoma before surgery, while adjuvant therapy is additional treatment used after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer returning.
Key Factors in Choosing a Melanoma Surgeon
Board Certification
All surgeons in this guide are board-certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC or FRCPC). This certification ensures:
- Completion of medical school
- 5+ years of specialized residency training
- Rigorous examinations
- Ongoing continuing medical education
- Adherence to professional standards
Experience and Specialization
Look for surgeons who:
- Specialize specifically in skin cancer
- Perform high volumes of melanoma surgeries annually
- Stay current with latest techniques and research
- Have university teaching appointments
- Participate in continuing medical education
Accessibility
Consider practical factors:
- Wait times - How quickly can you be seen?
- Referral requirements - Do you need a referral?
- Location convenience - Multiple locations available?
- Extended hours - Evening or weekend appointments?
- Same-day procedures - Can diagnosis and treatment happen in one visit?
Technology and Facilities
Modern facilities should offer:
- On-site pathology labs
- Advanced imaging capabilities
- State-of-the-art surgical suites
- Digital mole mapping technology
- Clean, accredited environments
Multidisciplinary Approach
Comprehensive melanoma care often requires:
- Dermatologists for diagnosis
- Surgical oncologists for tumor removal
- Medical oncologists for systemic therapy
- Plastic surgeons for reconstruction
- Radiation oncologists when needed
- Pathologists for accurate diagnosis
- Nurses and support staff
Patient Reviews and Reputation
Research patient experiences through:
- Google reviews
- RateMDs
- HealthGrades
- Word-of-mouth recommendations
- Hospital quality metrics
OHIP Coverage for Melanoma Treatment
What's Covered
Melanoma treatment is generally covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) when medically necessary. This typically includes:
- Consultation with specialists (with referral)
- Diagnostic procedures
- Surgical removal of melanoma
- Reconstructive surgery when necessary
- Hospital-based treatments
- Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy
- Follow-up care
What May Not Be Covered
Purely cosmetic procedures or removal of benign lesions that don't pose health risks may not be covered. Each case is evaluated individually based on medical necessity.
Private Pay Options
Facilities like The Minor Surgery Center offer:
- No-referral-required access for faster treatment
- Flexible scheduling including same-day procedures
- Transparent pricing for services not covered by OHIP
- Free initial consultations to discuss options
Prevention and Early Detection
Monthly Self-Examinations
Use the ABCDE method to check moles:
- Asymmetry - One half doesn't match the other
- Border - Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges
- Color - Varied shades of brown, black, or multi-colored
- Diameter - Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser size)
- Evolving - Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms
Check your moles on the same date each monthβfor example, take 5 minutes on the 5th of every month.
Risk Factors Requiring Closer Monitoring
You have higher lifetime risk if you have severe blistering sunburns before age 20, skin that tends to burn easily, more than 50 moles on your body, atypical moles with unusual shape or color, fair or freckled skin, or family history of melanoma.
Sun Protection Strategies
According to the World Health Organization, 85% of melanomas among Canadian adults aged 30+ are attributed to UV radiation exposure. Protection strategies include:
- Daily sunscreen use (SPF 30+)
- Protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats
- Seeking shade during peak UV hours (10 AM - 4 PM)
- Avoiding tanning beds completely
- Regular skin examinations by healthcare providers
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Contact a melanoma specialist immediately if you notice:
- A new mole that looks different from others
- An existing mole that changes in size, shape, or color
- A mole that becomes itchy, painful, or bleeds
- A sore that doesn't heal within 3 weeks
- Any suspicious pigmented lesion
If you're a Sunnybrook patient and notice new or changing moles during your monthly check, call (416) 480-6100 ext. 5248. If you're not a patient, see your family doctor promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a melanoma surgeon in Toronto?
It depends on the facility. The Minor Surgery Center accepts patients without referrals, while hospital-based programs like Princess Margaret and Sunnybrook typically require physician referrals. Carlton Skin Clinic accepts referrals from family doctors and dermatologists.
How long are typical wait times?
Wait times vary significantly:
- Private clinics (TMSC): Often same-day or within days
- Carlton Skin Clinic: Rapid access, typically within 1-2 weeks
- Sunnybrook RDU: Designed for quick assessment
- Princess Margaret: Varies based on urgency and referral
For suspected melanoma, most facilities prioritize urgent cases.
What happens during a melanoma consultation?
Typical consultations include:
- Review of medical history
- Complete skin examination
- Dermoscopy of suspicious lesions
- Discussion of biopsy or excision recommendations
- Review of treatment options
- Planning for surgery or further testing
How much does melanoma treatment cost?
OHIP covers medically necessary melanoma treatment including surgery, systemic therapies, and follow-up care. Private clinics may charge for:
- Consultations without referral
- Removal of benign lesions
- Cosmetic aspects of treatment
- Enhanced services or scheduling
Always confirm coverage details during your initial consultation.
What are the success rates for melanoma treatment?
The 5-year relative survival rate for melanoma is 84% in men and 91% in women when all stages are combined. Melanomas less than 1mm thick rarely spread, and early-stage melanoma treated with surgery often requires no additional treatment.
Mohs surgery achieves the highest cure rates at 97-99% for appropriate candidates.
Making Your Decision
Choosing a melanoma surgeon is one of the most important healthcare decisions you'll make. Consider these steps:
- Get a proper diagnosis - Ensure suspicious lesions are evaluated by a qualified dermatologist or physician
- Research your options - Review the facilities and surgeons in this guide
- Schedule consultations - Meet with one or more surgeons to discuss your case
- Ask questions - Understand the proposed treatment, alternatives, and expected outcomes
- Verify credentials - Confirm board certification and experience
- Trust your instincts - Choose a provider you feel comfortable with
Conclusion
Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area offer world-class melanoma care through a combination of private surgical centers, specialized Mohs surgery clinics, and comprehensive cancer centers. Whether you're seeking rapid access care at The Minor Surgery Center, specialized Mohs surgery at Carlton Skin Clinic, or comprehensive tertiary care at Princess Margaret or Sunnybrook, you have excellent options available.
The key is early detection and prompt treatment by experienced, board-certified specialists. With melanoma rates rising but mortality declining thanks to advances in treatment, accessing expert care has never been more importantβor more effective.
Don't delay if you have concerns about a suspicious mole or lesion. The surgeons and facilities outlined in this guide represent Toronto's finest melanoma care providers, offering the expertise, technology, and compassionate care you need for the best possible outcome.
Contact Information Summary
The Minor Surgery Center
- (647) 614-1611
- www.torontominorsurgery.com
Carlton Skin Clinic
- (289) 301-3011
- www.carltonskinclinic.ca
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
- (416) 946-4501 (Dr. Marcus Butler)
- www.uhn.ca/PrincessMargaret
Sunnybrook Melanoma Clinic
- (416) 480-4205
- www.sunnybrook.ca
Centre for Minor Surgery
- (416) 663-9649
- www.minorsurgery.ca
Toronto Dermatology Centre
- (416) 633-0001
- www.torontodermatologycentre.com
Last Updated: October 2025
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Treatment recommendations and facility information may change. Verify all details directly with healthcare providers.
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