Best Skin Cancer Clinic Toronto: Your Complete 2025 Guide to Fast, Expert Care

Toronto Skin Cancer Clinics Comparison

🏥 Toronto Skin Cancer Clinics: Quick Comparison

Compare top-rated clinics by referral needs, OHIP coverage, pricing & wait times

#2

Women's College Hospital

Mohs Surgery Centre • Facial skin cancers

Referral Required?

Yes - Physician Referral

OHIP Coverage

Yes - Hospital Care

Wait Time

Hospital Timelines

Mohs Surgery

Yes - Specialized Unit

Key Features

Highest Cure Rate Facial Cancers Tissue-Sparing
#3

Princess Margaret Cancer Centre

Melanoma & advanced skin oncology

Referral Required?

Yes - Physician Referral

OHIP Coverage

Yes - Full Coverage

Wait Time

Priority by Urgency

Specialty

Melanoma & Clinical Trials

Key Features

Top Cancer Centre Clinical Trials Multidisciplinary
#4

Centre for Minor Surgery

Private surgical clinic • Clear pricing

Referral Required?

No - Direct Booking

OHIP Coverage

Cancer Cases Only

Wait Time

Same-Day Available

Private Pricing

Moles from $495

Key Features

Plastic Surgeons Posted Prices Quick Access
#5

Toronto Dermatology Centre

Screening & mole mapping

Referral Required?

For OHIP - Yes

OHIP Coverage

Medical Visits Only

Wait Time

Within 2 Weeks

Mole Mapping

$800 + HST (Private)

Key Features

Full-Body Screening Digital Mapping Early Detection
#6

Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre

Academic skin cancer program

Referral Required?

Yes - Physician Referral

OHIP Coverage

Yes - Hospital Care

Specialty

BCC, SCC & Melanoma

Key Features

Academic Centre North York Comprehensive Care

Quick Reference: Side-by-Side Comparison

Clinic No Referral OHIP Cancer Same-Day Mohs Starting Price
Women's College Hospital ✗ ✓ ✗ ✓ $0 (OHIP)
Princess Margaret ✗ ✓ ✗ ✗ $0 (OHIP)
Centre for Minor Surgery ✓ ✓* ✓ ✗ $495
Toronto Dermatology Centre ✗ ✓* ✗ ✗ $800 (mapping)
Sunnybrook ✗ ✓ ✗ ✗ $0 (OHIP)

* OHIP covers medical visits only; some procedures are private-pay

Top Rated Choice
Yes / Available
No / Not Available

‍

Why Choosing the Right Skin Cancer Clinic in Toronto Matters

When you discover a suspicious spot on your skin, time becomes your most valuable asset. In Toronto's complex healthcare landscape, finding the right skin cancer clinic can mean the difference between weeks of anxiety and same-day peace of mind. With skin cancer rates continuing to rise across Canada—approximately 11,300 melanoma cases diagnosed annually and a 30-week median wait time for specialist care—knowing where to go for fast, expert treatment is crucial.

This comprehensive guide ranks Toronto's best skin cancer clinics based on what patients actually need: referral requirements, OHIP coverage, pricing transparency, wait times, surgical expertise, and access to specialized treatments like Mohs surgery. After thorough research and comparison, The Minor Surgery Center (TMSC) emerges as Toronto's top choice for patients who want rapid access to board-certified plastic surgeons, OHIP-covered cancer excisions without referrals, and transparent pricing for non-insured procedures.

Whether you're dealing with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, or simply want a suspicious lesion examined and removed quickly, this guide will help you navigate Toronto's skin cancer care options with confidence.

Key Takeaways: Your Action Plan for Finding the Best Skin Cancer Clinic in Toronto

For Rapid Cancer Treatment (OHIP-Covered)

✅ Book The Minor Surgery Center directly—no referral needed, OHIP covers cancer excisions, often same-day procedures

For Facial/Complex Non-Melanoma

✅ Get a referral to Women's College or Unity Health Mohs centre—highest cure rates for facial cancers

For Melanoma or Advanced Disease

✅ Ask your doctor for Princess Margaret referral—comprehensive oncology team and clinical trial access

For Screening/Mole Mapping

✅ Book Toronto Dermatology Centre—full-body mole mapping $800 + HST, excellent for high-risk patients

For Benign Mole Removal

✅ Choose TMSC or CFMS—transparent pricing ($495-$600), direct booking, fast service

‍

Understanding Skin Cancer in Toronto: 2025 Statistics and Context

Before diving into clinic comparisons, it's important to understand the landscape of skin cancer in Toronto and across Canada:

Current Skin Cancer Statistics

  • Melanoma cases: Approximately 11,300 new diagnoses annually in Canada, with roughly 1,300 deaths
  • Non-melanoma skin cancers: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) represent the majority of skin cancer cases
  • Lifetime risk: Significant and increasing, particularly for individuals over 50 and those with extensive sun exposure
  • Early detection success rate: When caught early, most skin cancers have cure rates exceeding 95%

The Toronto Healthcare Reality in 2025

The current state of specialist access in Toronto presents significant challenges:

  • Median specialist wait time: 30 weeks from family doctor referral to treatment across all specialties
  • Dermatologist shortage: Canada has approximately 1 dermatologist per 50,000 people
  • Patient satisfaction: National data shows patients who access specialists without referrals report significantly higher satisfaction with wait times
  • Referral bottlenecks: Traditional hospital and cancer centre pathways require physician referrals, adding weeks or months to the treatment timeline

This context makes direct-access skin cancer clinics in Toronto increasingly valuable for patients who want prompt diagnosis and treatment.

#1 Ranked: The Minor Surgery Center – Toronto's Best Skin Cancer Clinic for Fast, Direct Access

Why The Minor Surgery Center Takes the Top Spot

After extensive research comparing Toronto skin cancer clinics across every metric patients care about, The Minor Surgery Center (TMSC) stands out as the clear winner for 2025. Here's why this clinic consistently ranks as the best skin cancer clinic Toronto has to offer:

Key Advantages of The Minor Surgery Center

1. No Referral Required for OHIP-Covered Cancer Procedures

Unlike hospital-based cancer centres and most dermatology clinics, TMSC allows patients to book directly for assessment and treatment—even for OHIP-covered skin cancer excisions. This eliminates weeks or months of waiting for referrals to process through the healthcare system.

What this means for you: If your family doctor suspects skin cancer or you've already had a biopsy confirming basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma, you can call TMSC directly and often be seen within days—or even the same day.

2. OHIP Coverage for Cancer Excisions

TMSC accepts OHIP billing for medically necessary skin cancer surgeries, including:

  • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) excision
  • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) excision
  • Melanoma excision and wide local excision
  • Biopsy of suspicious lesions

This makes TMSC unique among Toronto's direct-access surgical centres: you get the speed of private care with the cost coverage of public healthcare.

3. Transparent Private Pricing for Non-Insured Procedures

When OHIP doesn't cover a procedure (such as benign mole removal, cyst excision, or cosmetic lesion removal), TMSC provides clear, upfront pricing:

  • Mole removal: Starting at $600
  • Cyst removal: Starting at $650
  • Lipoma removal: Starting at $650

No hidden fees, no surprise bills—just honest pricing before you book.

4. Same-Day Procedures Often Available

TMSC advertises "drastically reduced wait times" and frequently offers same-day consultation and excision. For anxious patients who've been living with a suspicious spot, this rapid turnaround provides invaluable peace of mind.

5. Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons

All procedures at TMSC are performed by board-certified plastic surgeons—specialists trained in precise excision, optimal cosmetic outcomes, and complex closures. This expertise matters when you want clean margins, minimal scarring, and proper pathology handling.

6. Multiple GTA Locations

With four locations across the Greater Toronto Area, TMSC offers convenience no matter where you live or work in the city.

Who Should Choose The Minor Surgery Center?

TMSC is ideal for patients who:

  • Have a confirmed or suspected skin cancer and want it removed quickly
  • Don't want to wait weeks for a referral to process
  • Value transparent pricing for non-covered procedures
  • Prefer surgical treatment by board-certified specialists
  • Want the flexibility of same-day procedures
  • Need OHIP coverage without the hospital wait times

Bottom line: If you're looking for the fastest path from "I'm worried about this spot" to "It's been removed and sent to pathology," The Minor Surgery Center is Toronto's best skin cancer clinic option.

Comprehensive Comparison: Top 10 Skin Cancer Clinics in Toronto

While The Minor Surgery Center takes the top spot, Toronto offers several excellent facilities for different clinical situations. Here's the complete breakdown:

#2: Women's College Hospital – Mohs Surgery Centre

Best for: Complex facial non-melanoma skin cancers requiring tissue-sparing Mohs surgery

Specialization: Mohs micrographic surgery for aggressive or recurrent basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, particularly on the face, ears, and neck.

Key Details:

  • Referral required: Yes (formal referral form from physician)
  • OHIP coverage: Yes (hospital-based care)
  • Typical wait time: Standard hospital triage timelines (varies by urgency)
  • Mohs surgery: Yes, dedicated unit
  • Cure rate: Highest published cure rates for BCC/SCC (up to 99%)

Why choose Women's College: When you have an aggressive facial skin cancer, Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate while preserving maximum healthy tissue—crucial for cosmetically sensitive areas. Women's College runs one of Toronto's premier Mohs centres.

#3: Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (UHN) – Melanoma & Skin Oncology

Best for: Melanoma, advanced skin cancers, and patients needing multidisciplinary oncology care

Specialization: Comprehensive melanoma program with medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation, dermatology, and clinical trial access.

Key Details:

  • Referral required: Yes (physician referral)
  • OHIP coverage: Yes
  • Typical wait time: Varies by case urgency; priority given to advanced disease
  • Clinical trials: Extensive access to latest treatments
  • Location: Downtown Toronto (University Avenue)

Why choose Princess Margaret: Canada's leading cancer centre. If you have melanoma, advanced disease, or want access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials, this is where you want to be.

#4: Sunnybrook – Odette Cancer Centre

Best for: Non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer programs within a large academic hospital

Specialization: Comprehensive skin cancer program with surgical, medical, and radiation oncology.

Key Details:

  • Referral required: Yes
  • OHIP coverage: Yes
  • Academic program: Strong research and training focus
  • Location: North York

Why choose Sunnybrook: Large academic centre with experienced teams and comprehensive services. Good option if you're already in the Sunnybrook system or prefer large hospital infrastructure.

#5: Unity Health (St. Joseph's) – Mohs Micrographic Surgery Clinic

Best for: West-end Toronto patients needing Mohs surgery

Specialization: Mohs surgery for complex non-melanoma skin cancers.

Key Details:

  • Referral required: Yes (referral form available online)
  • OHIP coverage: Yes
  • Mohs surgery: Yes
  • Location: West Toronto (St. Joseph's Health Centre)

Why choose Unity Health: Another excellent Mohs option, particularly convenient if you live or work in west Toronto.

#6: Centre for Minor Surgery (CFMS)

Best for: Private-pay patients wanting quick access with transparent pricing

Specialization: Plastic surgeon-led clinic for benign and cancerous lesions.

Key Details:

  • Referral required: No (can book directly)
  • OHIP coverage: Cancer cases can be OHIP-billed with appropriate documentation
  • Private pricing: Moles from $495, cysts from $495, lipomas from $595
  • Same-day procedures: Often available
  • Mohs surgery: No

Why choose CFMS: Strong alternative to TMSC with similar direct-access model and clear pricing. Good choice if TMSC isn't convenient to your location.

#7: Toronto Dermatology Centre (TDC)

Best for: Screening, mole mapping, and dermatological assessment before surgery

Specialization: Medical dermatology, mole mapping, and skin cancer screening.

Key Details:

  • Referral: Usually required for OHIP-covered medical dermatology
  • OHIP coverage: Medically necessary visits covered; screening is not
  • Mole mapping: $800 + HST (private)
  • Typical wait: Within 2 weeks for referral consults
  • Surgery: Limited; focuses on diagnosis and screening

Why choose TDC: Excellent for comprehensive screening, full-body mole mapping, and dermatological assessment. Not a surgical centre, so best used for diagnosis and triage.

#8: Cleveland Clinic Canada – Dermatology

Best for: Patients wanting premium private dermatology with option for OHIP-covered medical visits

Specialization: Medical and cosmetic dermatology.

Key Details:

  • Referral: Required for medical dermatology (OHIP-covered)
  • OHIP coverage: Medical dermatology yes; cosmetic no
  • Location: Downtown Toronto
  • Premium service: Part of Cleveland Clinic network

Why choose Cleveland Clinic Canada: If you value the Cleveland Clinic brand and want a mix of OHIP medical dermatology with access to premium cosmetic services.

#9: Toronto Western Hospital (UHN) – Dermatology Clinic

Best for: Complex medical dermatology within academic hospital setting

Specialization: General and complex dermatology.

Key Details:

  • Referral required: Yes (must be from physician)
  • OHIP coverage: Yes
  • Academic centre: Part of UHN
  • Wait times: Standard hospital referral timelines

Why choose Toronto Western: Solid option for complex dermatological conditions and cases requiring hospital-based care coordination.

#10: North Toronto Surgical

Best for: North York residents wanting community surgical access

Specialization: Minor surgical procedures including skin cancer excision.

Key Details:

  • Referral required: No
  • OHIP coverage: Skin cancer excision listed as OHIP-covered
  • Location: North York
  • Melanoma: Refers advanced cases to specialists

Why choose North Toronto Surgical: Good community alternative in North York with direct access and OHIP billing for cancer excisions.

What Makes a Great Skin Cancer Clinic in Toronto? Key Factors to Consider

When evaluating Toronto skin cancer clinics, these factors determine quality of care and patient experience:

1. Referral Requirements and Access Speed

Why it matters: Time is critical in skin cancer treatment. Clinics requiring referrals can add weeks or months to your journey.

Best practice: Direct-access clinics like TMSC and CFMS allow you to bypass referral bottlenecks while still offering OHIP coverage for cancer procedures.

2. OHIP Coverage Transparency

Why it matters: Understanding what's covered prevents billing surprises.

Best practice: Look for clinics that clearly label OHIP-covered procedures (cancer excisions) versus private-pay procedures (benign lesions).

3. Surgical Expertise

Why it matters: Proper excision technique affects cure rates, scarring, and need for re-excision.

Best practice: Board-certified plastic surgeons or dermatologic surgeons provide optimal outcomes. Mohs fellowship training is essential for Mohs cases.

4. Pricing Transparency

Why it matters: When procedures aren't OHIP-covered, you need to know costs upfront.

Best practice: Clinics like TMSC and CFMS that post starting prices demonstrate respect for patients' financial planning needs.

5. Comprehensive Pathology Handling

Why it matters: Accurate pathology determines if margins are clear and guides next steps.

Best practice: All reputable clinics send specimens to certified pathology labs and follow up on results.

6. Appropriate Triaging

Why it matters: Some cancers need specialized treatment (Mohs, oncology).

Best practice: Good clinics recognize when to refer to Mohs centres or cancer centres rather than attempting everything in-house.

OHIP Coverage for Skin Cancer Treatment in Toronto: What You Need to Know

Understanding Ontario's health insurance coverage for skin cancer is crucial for planning your care:

What OHIP Covers

Fully covered procedures:

  • Biopsy of suspicious lesions
  • Excision of confirmed skin cancers (BCC, SCC, melanoma)
  • Mohs surgery for appropriate cases
  • Hospital-based cancer care
  • Follow-up visits related to cancer treatment

What OHIP does NOT cover:

  • Cosmetic mole removal (no medical necessity)
  • Benign lesion removal (cysts, lipomas, skin tags without medical indication)
  • Screening services like full-body mole mapping
  • Removal of seborrheic keratoses, warts for cosmetic purposes
  • Follow-up scar revision for cosmetic improvement

How OHIP Coverage Works at Different Toronto Skin Cancer Clinics

Hospital-based centres (Women's College, Princess Margaret, Sunnybrook, Unity Health):

  • All medically necessary care is OHIP-covered
  • No out-of-pocket costs for cancer treatment
  • Require physician referral
  • Subject to hospital wait times

Direct-access surgical centres (TMSC, CFMS, North Toronto Surgical):

  • Can bill OHIP for confirmed cancer excisions
  • Allow direct booking without referral
  • Faster access than hospital routes
  • Charge private fees for benign/cosmetic procedures

Private dermatology clinics:

  • OHIP covers medically necessary visits with referral
  • Private fees for screening and cosmetic services
  • Limited surgical capabilities

Making the Most of OHIP Coverage

Pro tip: If you have a confirmed or highly suspicious skin cancer, clinics like TMSC offer the best of both worlds—direct access with OHIP coverage. You don't sacrifice speed for insurance coverage.

Mohs Surgery in Toronto: When and Where to Get It

Mohs micrographic surgery represents the gold standard for certain types of skin cancer. Understanding when you need it and where to get it in Toronto is essential:

What is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a specialized technique where the surgeon:

  1. Removes the visible tumor plus a thin margin
  2. Maps and processes the tissue immediately
  3. Examines 100% of the margin under microscope
  4. Removes additional layers only where cancer cells remain
  5. Reconstructs the site after achieving clear margins

When Mohs Surgery is Recommended

Ideal cases for Mohs:

  • Facial skin cancers (nose, ears, eyelids, lips)
  • Aggressive or recurrent basal cell carcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma in cosmetically sensitive areas
  • Cancers with poorly defined borders
  • Large tumors where tissue preservation matters
  • Cancers in areas with high recurrence risk

Not typically needed for:

  • Small, well-defined BCC on trunk or limbs
  • Melanoma (treated with wide excision + sentinel node biopsy)
  • Clearly benign lesions

Where to Get Mohs Surgery in Toronto

Top Mohs centres:

  1. Women's College Hospital Mohs Surgery Centre
    • Dedicated Mohs unit
    • Weekday clinic
    • Physician referral required
    • OHIP-covered
  2. Unity Health (St. Joseph's) Mohs Clinic
    • West-end location
    • Referral required
    • OHIP-covered
  3. Carlton Skin Clinic
    • Private Mohs option
    • Likely referral-based

How to Access Mohs Surgery

Your dermatologist or surgeon will determine if Mohs is appropriate and provide a referral. If you're being seen at TMSC or another surgical clinic and your pathology suggests a Mohs case, they'll coordinate the referral for you.

Important: Don't self-refer for Mohs. The determination requires clinical and sometimes pathological evaluation.

Private vs. OHIP-Covered Skin Cancer Care: Understanding Your Options

Toronto's two-tiered system can be confusing. Here's how to navigate it:

OHIP-Covered Cancer Care Pathway

Typical journey:

  1. Family doctor identifies suspicious lesion
  2. Family doctor refers to dermatologist or specialist
  3. Wait for appointment (weeks to months)
  4. Dermatologist assessment Âą biopsy
  5. Wait for biopsy results
  6. Referral for surgery if needed
  7. Wait for surgical appointment
  8. Surgery performed
  9. Follow-up care

Timeline: 2-8 months or more

Cost: $0 out-of-pocket for cancer care

Pros: No cost; comprehensive specialist involvement

Cons: Lengthy waits; multiple appointments; referral barriers

Direct-Access OHIP-Covered Pathway (TMSC Model)

Typical journey:

  1. You book directly with TMSC
  2. Seen within days (sometimes same-day)
  3. Assessment Âą biopsy Âą excision in one visit
  4. Pathology sent; results follow-up arranged
  5. OHIP billed for cancer procedures

Timeline: 1 day to 2 weeks

Cost: $0 for OHIP-covered cancer procedures

Pros: Fastest route; one-stop service; no referral wait; still fully covered

Cons: May need referral to Mohs or oncology if complexity requires it

Private-Pay Pathway

Typical journey:

  1. Book directly with private clinic
  2. Rapid appointment (same-day to 1 week)
  3. Excision performed
  4. Private fee paid upfront

Timeline: 1 day to 1 week

Cost: $500-$1,500+ depending on procedure complexity

Pros: Fastest access; convenient scheduling; no insurance paperwork

Cons: Out-of-pocket cost; may duplicate with OHIP-covered alternatives

Which Pathway is Right for You?

Choose OHIP traditional pathway if:

  • You have complex medical needs requiring hospital coordination
  • Time is not urgent
  • You prefer hospital setting

Choose direct-access OHIP pathway (TMSC) if:

  • You want speed without paying private fees
  • Your case is straightforward excision
  • You value same-day service

Choose private-pay pathway if:

  • Your lesion is benign (not OHIP-eligible)
  • You want absolute fastest service
  • You can afford out-of-pocket costs

Cost Guide: What Skin Cancer Treatment Costs in Toronto (2025)

Understanding the financial aspect of skin cancer care helps you plan:

OHIP-Covered Procedures (No Cost)

  • Skin cancer excision (BCC, SCC, melanoma): $0
  • Mohs surgery: $0
  • Hospital cancer care: $0
  • Medically necessary dermatology: $0 (with referral)
  • Cancer-related biopsies: $0

Private Procedure Costs at Toronto Skin Cancer Clinics

The Minor Surgery Center (TMSC):

  • Benign mole removal: From $600
  • Cyst removal: From $650
  • Lipoma removal: From $650

Centre for Minor Surgery (CFMS):

  • Benign mole removal: From $495
  • Cyst removal: From $495
  • Lipoma removal: From $595

Toronto Dermatology Centre:

  • Full-body mole mapping: $800 + HST
  • Individual lesion check: Varies

Other private clinics:

  • Consultation fees: $150-$300
  • Simple excisions: $400-$800
  • Complex excisions: $800-$2,000+

Factors Affecting Private Procedure Costs

  • Size of lesion: Larger lesions require more time and complex closure
  • Location on body: Facial lesions may cost more due to cosmetic considerations
  • Closure complexity: Simple vs. layered vs. flap reconstruction
  • Pathology fees: Usually included, but confirm
  • Follow-up visits: Some included, some billed separately

Insurance Coverage

Private health insurance: Many extended health plans cover a portion of non-OHIP procedures. Check your policy for:

  • Annual maximums for specialist visits
  • Coverage for dermatology or plastic surgery
  • Percentage reimbursement for eligible procedures

How to Choose the Best Toronto Skin Cancer Clinic for Your Situation

Not every clinic is right for every patient. Use this decision framework:

Scenario 1: "I have a spot my doctor says is suspicious or confirmed cancer"

Best choice: The Minor Surgery Center

Why: Direct booking, OHIP-covered cancer excision, fastest timeline, same-day procedures possible

Action: Call TMSC directly; bring any biopsy results or doctor's notes

Scenario 2: "I have aggressive facial BCC that's been biopsied"

Best choice: Mohs surgery (Women's College or Unity Health)

Why: Highest cure rate for facial cancers while preserving tissue

Action: Ask your doctor or surgeon for a Mohs referral; don't delay

Scenario 3: "I have melanoma or my doctor suspects advanced disease"

Best choice: Princess Margaret Cancer Centre

Why: Comprehensive oncology team, clinical trials, multidisciplinary care

Action: Your doctor should refer immediately; emphasize urgency if concerned

Scenario 4: "I have a mole I want removed but it's probably benign"

Best choice: TMSC or CFMS for private removal

Why: Quick access, clear pricing, surgical expertise

Action: Book directly; budget $500-$800; ask if OHIP might cover it if pathology shows dysplasia

Scenario 5: "I want screening—I have lots of moles and family history"

Best choice: Toronto Dermatology Centre or similar screening clinic

Why: Dedicated mole mapping and dermatological assessment

Action: Budget $800+ for comprehensive mapping; ask about follow-up intervals

Scenario 6: "I need everything checked but want one-stop assessment and treatment"

Best choice: The Minor Surgery Center

Why: Can assess, biopsy, and often treat in single visit; OHIP covers cancer procedures

Action: Book comprehensive assessment; be prepared for same-day biopsy or excision

Questions to Ask When Calling a Toronto Skin Cancer Clinic

Empower yourself with these essential questions:

About Access and Referrals

  1. "Do I need a referral, or can I book directly?"
  2. "What's your current wait time from booking to first appointment?"
  3. "Can assessment and excision happen in the same visit?"
  4. "Do you offer same-day or emergency appointments?"

About OHIP Coverage

  1. "Is this procedure OHIP-covered or private-pay?"
  2. "If it turns out to be cancer, will OHIP cover the excision?"
  3. "What happens if the pathology changes the diagnosis?"
  4. "Are follow-up appointments included in OHIP coverage?"

About Costs (If Private)

  1. "What's the total cost including consultation, procedure, pathology, and follow-up?"
  2. "Are there any additional fees I should know about?"
  3. "Do you offer payment plans?"
  4. "Will you provide documentation for insurance claims?"

About Expertise

  1. "What are your surgeon's qualifications?" (Look for: board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologic surgeon)
  2. "How many of these procedures do you perform annually?"
  3. "What's your complication rate?"
  4. "What do you do if margins aren't clear?"

About Pathology and Follow-Up

  1. "Where is pathology processed?" (Should be certified lab)
  2. "How long until I get results?"
  3. "How will results be communicated?"
  4. "What happens if I need additional treatment?"

Red Flags: Signs You Should Look for Another Skin Cancer Clinic

Protect yourself by avoiding clinics with these warning signs:

Red Flag #1: Unclear OHIP Billing

Warning: Clinic is vague about what's covered or tries to charge for clearly OHIP-eligible cancer procedures

Why it matters: Cancer excisions should be OHIP-covered; you shouldn't pay out-of-pocket

Better option: TMSC clearly labels OHIP vs. private procedures

Red Flag #2: No Clear Surgical Credentials

Warning: Can't verify surgeon is board-certified or fellowship-trained

Why it matters: Proper training affects cure rates and outcomes

Better option: Look for "board-certified plastic surgeon" or "FRCS(C)" designation

Red Flag #3: Pressure to Do Unnecessary Procedures

Warning: Recommends extensive removal of benign lesions "just to be safe"

Why it matters: May be profit-driven rather than medical necessity

Better option: Seek second opinion; ask "what happens if we watch and wait?"

Red Flag #4: No Pathology or Inadequate Pathology Process

Warning: Doesn't send specimens to pathology or uses unaccredited labs

Why it matters: Pathology is essential to confirm diagnosis and check margins

Better option: All reputable clinics send specimens to certified pathology labs

Red Flag #5: Dismissive of Concerns or Rushed Assessment

Warning: Doesn't listen to your history or examine thoroughly

Why it matters: Proper assessment requires time and attention

Better option: Choose clinics with enough appointment time for thorough examination

Frequently Asked Questions About Toronto Skin Cancer Clinics

Do I need a referral to see a skin cancer specialist in Toronto?

It depends on the clinic. Hospital-based centres (Women's College, Princess Margaret, Sunnybrook, Unity Health) require physician referrals. However, direct-access surgical centres like The Minor Surgery Center and Centre for Minor Surgery allow you to book without a referral—even for OHIP-covered cancer procedures. This can save weeks or months in wait time.

How much does skin cancer removal cost in Toronto?

If you have confirmed or suspected skin cancer, excision is OHIP-covered and costs $0 out-of-pocket at centres that bill OHIP (including TMSC). For benign mole removal not covered by OHIP, expect to pay $500-$800 at surgical clinics. Full-body mole mapping costs around $800 + HST.

What's the fastest way to get a skin cancer removed in Toronto?

Book directly with The Minor Surgery Center, which often offers same-day consultation and excision without requiring a referral. For OHIP-covered cancer procedures, TMSC provides the fastest path from concern to treatment while maintaining full insurance coverage.

When do I need Mohs surgery instead of regular excision?

Mohs surgery is recommended for facial skin cancers, aggressive or recurrent basal cell carcinoma, cancers with unclear borders, or tumors in cosmetically sensitive areas. Your surgeon will determine if Mohs is appropriate and refer you to Women's College Hospital or Unity Health if needed. Most body-site skin cancers don't require Mohs.

Can I go straight to The Minor Surgery Center if I suspect skin cancer?

Yes. TMSC accepts direct bookings without referrals. Bring any relevant medical records, biopsy results, or photos of the lesion over time. They'll assess, and if cancer is confirmed or suspected, they can often excise it the same day with OHIP coverage.

How long do skin cancer biopsy results take in Toronto?

Pathology results typically take 5-10 business days from most Toronto labs. Some clinics offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Your clinic should contact you with results and explain next steps if further treatment is needed.

What's the difference between a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon for skin cancer?

Both can treat skin cancer, but with different approaches. Dermatologists excel at diagnosis, Mohs surgery (if Mohs-trained), and medical management. Plastic surgeons (like those at TMSC) specialize in surgical excision with optimal cosmetic closure and complex reconstruction. For straightforward excisions, board-certified plastic surgeons provide excellent outcomes.

Is The Minor Surgery Center covered by OHIP?

Yes, for medically necessary procedures including confirmed skin cancer excisions (BCC, SCC, melanoma). Benign mole removal and cosmetic procedures are private-pay. TMSC is unique in offering OHIP-covered cancer care with direct access—no referral required.

How do I know if my mole needs to be removed?

Follow the ABCDE rule:

  • Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
  • Border: Irregular, notched, or blurred edges
  • Color: Multiple colors or uneven distribution
  • Diameter: Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser)
  • Evolving: Changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms

If your mole exhibits any of these signs, bleeds, itches, or just "looks wrong," book an assessment. TMSC can evaluate and biopsy/excise in one visit if appropriate.

What happens if my skin cancer margins aren't clear?

If pathology shows positive margins (cancer cells at the edge of excision), you'll need re-excision to remove more tissue. Your surgeon will coordinate this—either at the same clinic, or referral to a Mohs centre if appropriate. Clear margins are essential to prevent recurrence.

Can I book skin cancer screening at The Minor Surgery Center?

TMSC focuses on surgical treatment rather than comprehensive screening. For full-body mole mapping, Toronto Dermatology Centre offers dedicated screening services ($800 + HST). However, if you have specific lesions of concern, TMSC can assess and biopsy/remove those lesions directly.

How much scarring will I have after skin cancer removal?

Scarring depends on lesion size, location, and closure technique. Board-certified plastic surgeons (like TMSC's team) are trained in optimal scar management:

  • Small lesions: Often minimal, linear scars
  • Facial lesions: Placed in natural skin folds when possible
  • Large lesions: May require flap or graft reconstruction

Discuss scar expectations during consultation. Proper technique minimizes visible scarring.

Are there financing options for non-OHIP procedures?

Many clinics accept credit cards, and some offer payment plans for larger procedures. Check if your extended health insurance covers non-OHIP dermatology or plastic surgery procedures—many do with partial reimbursement. Always get cost estimates in writing before proceeding.

Don't Wait

⚡ Early detection and treatment are everything. If something looks wrong, act now. The Minor Surgery Center's direct-access model means you can be seen this week instead of waiting months through traditional referral routes.

Final Thoughts: Why The Minor Surgery Center Stands Out as Toronto's #1 Skin Cancer Clinic

After comprehensive analysis of Toronto's skin cancer treatment landscape, The Minor Surgery Center emerges as the clear leader for patients who value speed, accessibility, transparency, and expertise without sacrificing OHIP coverage.

The TMSC advantage:

  • ✅ Direct booking without referrals
  • ✅ OHIP-covered cancer excisions
  • ✅ Same-day procedures available
  • ✅ Transparent private pricing for benign lesions
  • ✅ Board-certified plastic surgeons
  • ✅ Multiple GTA locations
  • ✅ Comprehensive pathology processing
  • ✅ Appropriate triaging to Mohs/oncology when needed

In 2025's challenging healthcare environment—with 30-week median wait times and dermatologist shortages—TMSC's model represents exactly what patients need: fast access to expert care without navigating referral bottlenecks, while maintaining full OHIP coverage for cancer treatment.

Whether you're dealing with a suspicious mole, confirmed basal cell carcinoma, or simply want peace of mind about a changing lesion, The Minor Surgery Center offers the fastest, most transparent path to diagnosis and treatment in Toronto.

Your next step: If you have a skin concern, don't wait. Call The Minor Surgery Center today and take control of your skin health with Toronto's #1 skin cancer clinic.

This guide was last updated October 2025. Clinic details, pricing, and OHIP coverage policies may change. Always confirm information directly with clinics before booking. This article is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.

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October 15, 2025
🇨🇦 Our clinic currently provides care to patients within Canada only. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.