The Minor Surgery Center Frequently Asked Questions

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πŸ’³ Insurance & Coverage

The Ministry of Health determines which procedures are covered by OHIP and which are not, based on a number of factors. Most benign (noncancerous) skin lesions are not covered as their treatment is considered unessential by the Ministry of Health.
Coverage Note: Coverage decisions are based on medical necessity as determined by provincial health guidelines.
Basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, carpal tunnel syndrome, and trigger fingers are covered by OHIP.
Important: These are the primary OHIP-covered procedures at our clinic. Coverage may vary based on individual circumstances.
No, you do not need a referral for the procedures that are covered by OHIP.
Direct Access: You can book directly with us for OHIP-covered procedures without a family doctor referral.

βš•οΈ During the Procedure

The length of a procedure is different for each case. Ask your surgeon for a more accurate answer.
Typical Ranges: Most minor procedures take 15-45 minutes, depending on complexity and location.
No, you will not be put to sleep, as all procedures are performed using local anesthesia.
Local Anesthesia: You'll be awake but completely comfortable. The area will be numb, and you won't feel any pain.
We administer local anesthesia with a tiny needle. Although pain levels vary based on the condition being treated, we aim to minimize your pain during the procedure as much as possible.
Pain Management: Most patients report minimal discomfort. The initial injection may cause brief stinging, but the area becomes numb quickly.
Although this varies on a case-by-case basis, we avoid operating on multiple conditions per person on the same day. This is to help ease the recovery process, and also to ensure that the total dosage of local anesthesia doesn't exceed the daily recommended limit.
Safety First: This policy ensures optimal safety and recovery outcomes for our patients.

πŸ”„ Recovery & Aftercare

A completely scarless surgery is a myth. Any cuts, scrapes, or incisions made during surgery do leave scars. However, our board certified surgeons are extremely diligent about practicing the best techniques to minimize scarring as much as possible. We also use scar management gels after surgery.
Scar Minimization: We offer "tiny scar" cyst and lipoma surgeries. Ask about our advanced techniques during your consultation.
Individual Healing: How a scar looks after healing varies case-by-case. No two people will have identical healing, even with the same procedure.
Most patients can return to work within 1-3 days, depending on the type of procedure and your job requirements. Desk work can typically be resumed the next day, while physical labor may require more time.
Work Considerations: Factor in your job's physical demands, dress code requirements, and ability to keep the surgical site clean.
Unless the surgery was on or near your eyes or on your hands, you may drive home by yourself after the surgery is complete.
Safety Note: Even if medically cleared to drive, consider having someone accompany you for support and assistance.
Whether you get stitches or not is determined on a case-by-case basis, and is based on factors such as the condition being treated, the depth of skin growth being removed, and more. That being said, most of our cases do have stitches.
Stitch Care: If you receive stitches, we'll provide detailed care instructions and schedule a follow-up for removal if needed.

🩺 Medical Concerns

Yes. If melanoma and squamous cell carcinomas spread to other parts of your body, they can be fatal. Basal cell carcinoma is rarely fatal, but if left untreated it can grow in size and become severely disfiguring. It can also affect nerves and lead to poorer functioning eyes, lips, cheeks, and other areas on the body.
⚠️ Critical: Early detection and treatment are essential. Don't delay seeking treatment for suspicious skin lesions.
You may postpone your surgery, but we do not recommend it. If your lesion is cancerous, postponing your surgery may lead to the growth and spread of your lesion, which may further complicate reconstruction and recovery.
⚠️ Important: For cancerous lesions, timely treatment is crucial. Delays can affect outcomes and increase complexity.
If you leave melanoma and squamous cell carcinomas untreated, they can rapidly spread to other parts of the body. They can also lead to death. Basal cell carcinomas do not spread to other parts of the body in most cases, but their growth continues.
⚠️ Warning: Typically, the longer you leave these cancers untreated, the larger and more disfiguring they become.

πŸ“‹ Preparation

Yes. Eating before your surgery is encouraged as it would curb the chances of "light-headedness" or "jittery" feelings occurring prior to and through your surgery.
Recommendation: Have a light meal 2-3 hours before your procedure to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Each patient receives a consultation with one of our board certified plastic surgeons. Your consultation will include a review of your medical history as well as a physical examination of the skin lesion.
Unless instructed, you do not need to stop taking medications before your surgery. If in doubt, call the TMSC office well in advance of your surgery.
Important: Always inform us about all medications, supplements, and blood thinners you're taking during your consultation.

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When considering minor surgery in Toronto, patients often have numerous questions about procedures, recovery times, insurance coverage, and what to expect. At The Minor Surgery Center (TMSC), we understand that making informed decisions about your health is crucial. This comprehensive FAQ guide addresses the most common questions our patients ask about minor surgical procedures, helping you feel confident and prepared for your treatment journey.

About The Minor Surgery Center: Ontario's Leading Minor Surgery Specialists

The Minor Surgery Center stands as Ontario's largest group of surgical specialists, revolutionizing healthcare access across the Greater Toronto Area. With state-of-the-art facilities in Toronto, Oakville, Vaughan, and Mississauga, we've successfully treated over 10,000 patients annually, earning a 4.9-star rating from more than 500 Google reviews.

Founded by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Kunaal Jindal and Dr. Roberto Tutino, TMSC was created to address a critical gap in Ontario's healthcare system: the lengthy wait times for minor surgical procedures. What once required months of waiting can now often be completed on the same day as your consultation.

Why Choose TMSC for Minor Surgery in Toronto?

No Referral Required for Most Procedures Unlike traditional healthcare pathways, most minor surgeries at TMSC don't require a family doctor referral. You can book directly with our plastic surgeons, streamlining your path to treatment.

Same-Day Surgery Available Many patients leave their consultation with their procedure already completed. This rapid access model has made TMSC the preferred choice for minor surgery in Toronto and surrounding areas.

OHIP Coverage for Medical Procedures Several procedures are covered by OHIP, including basal cell carcinoma removal, melanoma treatment, squamous cell carcinoma surgery, carpal tunnel surgery, and trigger finger treatment.

Board-Certified Expertise Our surgeons have trained at prestigious institutions including McGill, University of Toronto, Mayo Clinic, Yale University, and Oxford, bringing world-class expertise to minor surgery procedures.

Common Minor Surgery Procedures We Perform

Skin Cancer Treatment

  • Basal cell carcinoma removal
  • Melanoma surgery
  • Squamous cell carcinoma treatment
  • Suspicious mole removal and biopsy

Benign Skin Lesion Removal

  • Sebaceous cyst removal
  • Lipoma removal
  • Skin tag removal
  • Mole removal for cosmetic reasons
  • Seborrheic keratoses treatment

Hand Surgery

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment
  • Trigger finger surgery
  • Minor hand trauma repair

Understanding OHIP Coverage for Minor Surgery

One of the most frequently asked questions concerns OHIP coverage. The Ontario Health Insurance Plan covers medically necessary procedures, including all skin cancer treatments and certain hand conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger.

However, cosmetic procedures such as benign mole removal, cyst removal for aesthetic reasons, and skin tag removal are typically not covered by OHIP. During your consultation, our team will clearly explain which aspects of your treatment are covered and provide transparent pricing for any cosmetic components.

What to Expect During Your Minor Surgery

Local Anesthesia Only All procedures at TMSC are performed under local anesthesia, meaning you'll be awake but completely comfortable throughout your surgery. This approach eliminates the risks associated with general anesthesia while ensuring a pain-free experience.

Minimal Pain and Discomfort Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after minor surgery procedures. We use advanced techniques and the finest needles to minimize any sensation during local anesthetic injection.

Quick Procedure Times Most minor surgeries take between 15-45 minutes, depending on the complexity and location of the treatment area.

Recovery and Aftercare: What You Need to Know

Return to Work Timeline Most patients can return to work within 1-3 days following minor surgery. Desk workers often resume activities the next day, while those in physical jobs may need additional recovery time.

Scarring and Cosmetic Results While no surgery is completely scarless, our board-certified plastic surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize scarring. We offer specialized "tiny scar" procedures for cyst and lipoma removal and provide post-surgical scar management protocols.

Driving After Surgery Unless your procedure involves your hands or areas near your eyes, you can typically drive yourself home after minor surgery.

Safety and Risk Management

Skin Cancer: The Importance of Timely Treatment Delaying treatment for suspected skin cancer can have serious consequences. Melanoma and squamous cell carcinomas can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated, potentially becoming life-threatening. Even basal cell carcinomas, while rarely fatal, can cause significant disfigurement and functional problems if not addressed promptly.

Postponing Surgery Risks While you can postpone minor surgery, we strongly recommend against delays, especially for cancerous lesions. Postponement can lead to larger, more complex procedures and poorer cosmetic outcomes.

Preparing for Your Minor Surgery

Pre-Surgery Guidelines Unlike major surgeries, minor procedures at TMSC require minimal preparation. You're encouraged to eat before your procedure to prevent lightheadedness. Most medications can be continued, though we'll review all prescriptions and supplements during your consultation.

Consultation Process Every patient receives a comprehensive consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, including medical history review and physical examination of the treatment area.

Insurance and Payment Options

OHIP-Covered Procedures

  • Basal cell carcinoma removal
  • Melanoma treatment
  • Squamous cell carcinoma surgery
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment
  • Trigger finger surgery

Private Pay Procedures For cosmetic treatments not covered by OHIP, we offer transparent pricing and various payment options to make quality care accessible.

Advanced Techniques and Technology

The Minor Surgery Center employs the latest surgical techniques and technology to ensure optimal outcomes. Our "tiny scar" approach to cyst and lipoma removal minimizes cosmetic impact, while our sterile, clinic-based surgical suites provide hospital-quality care in a more comfortable, accessible setting.

Patient Success Stories and Outcomes

With over 10,000 procedures completed and a 4.9-star Google rating, TMSC has established itself as Toronto's premier destination for minor surgery. Patients consistently praise our efficient scheduling, professional staff, pain-free procedures, and excellent cosmetic results.

When to Seek Minor Surgery

Immediate Attention Required:

  • Rapidly changing moles or skin lesions
  • Bleeding or ulcerating skin growths
  • New, asymmetrical, or irregularly colored lesions
  • Persistent hand numbness or pain (carpal tunnel symptoms)

Cosmetic Concerns:

  • Bothersome cysts or lipomas
  • Unwanted skin tags or moles
  • Aesthetic improvement desires

Choosing the Right Minor Surgery Provider

When selecting a minor surgery provider in Toronto, consider:

  • Board certification in plastic surgery
  • Experience with your specific condition
  • Facility accreditation and safety standards
  • Patient reviews and outcomes
  • Transparent pricing and insurance coverage explanation

The TMSC Difference: Why We're Ontario's Choice for Minor Surgery

Reduced Wait Times: What typically takes months in the traditional system often happens within days or weeks at TMSC.

Expert Care: Our surgeons represent the most extensively trained group of minor surgery specialists in Ontario.

Comprehensive Service: From consultation to aftercare, we provide complete surgical care under one roof.

Patient-Centered Approach: Our model prioritizes patient convenience, comfort, and outcomes above all else.

Taking the Next Step

If you're considering minor surgery in Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area, The Minor Surgery Center offers the expertise, convenience, and quality care you deserve. Our board-certified plastic surgeons are ready to address your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the treatment you need with minimal wait times and maximum care.

Don't let minor surgical concerns impact your quality of life or, in the case of potential skin cancer, your health. Contact The Minor Surgery Center today at (647) 614-1611 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward resolution.

June 24, 2025