
Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgeon

In my practice I focus on an honest opinion, surgical expertise and compassionate care, ensuring an safe and optimal experience for every patient.
I am a triple Board certified plastic surgeon, practicing as a staff surgeon since 2004.
Frequently asked questions
The aesthetic surgery options I provide include the following procedures: liposuction, abdominoplasty, breast, arm, thigh and mons lifts, ear reduction or prominent ear correction for adults, eyelid surgery, and correction of gynaecomastia. Lowering of hairline, reduction of earlobes, and lip lift.
I focus on achieving natural-looking results that enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.
All surgical procedures carry risks. Some potential risks include: prolonged swelling, asymmetry, scarring, irregularities, nerve and vessel damage, infection, bleeding, blindness (eyelid surgery), delayed healing, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism.
Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications and delayed healing, so it is crucial to stop smoking before any elective surgery.
Anesthesia-related complications should be discussed with your anesthesiologist.
What is a scar?
A scar forms as your skin heals after an injury, surgery, or burn. This is a normal part of healing.
Scars change over time and may take many months to over a year to fully mature.
How do scars heal?
Early Healing (0–6 weeks)
The wound closes and new tissue forms
The scar may appear:
Red or pink
Raised or firm
Tight or itchy
Remodelling Phase (2–6 months)
The body reorganizes the scar tissue
The scar:
Becomes softer
Flattens
Starts to fade in colour
Mature Scar (6–18 months)
The scar becomes:
Softer and smoother
Closer to your natural skin colour
Some scars may remain slightly raised or darker
Does skin type matter?
All skin types heal in a similar way, but:
Some people may develop darker or thicker scars
Individuals with darker skin tones may be more prone to noticeable pigmentation changes or raised scars
How can I improve my scar?
Sun protection
Use SPF 30–50 sunscreen daily for at least 12 months
Sun exposure can cause scars to become darker or more noticeable
Moisturizing
Use a non-perfumed moisturizer once the wound has healed
Keeps the skin soft and comfortable
Scar massage
Start after the wound is healed and stitches are removed
Massage gently twice daily for 5–10 minutes
Helps soften and flatten the scar
Silicone therapy
Silicone gel or sheets can:
Reduce redness
Improve thickness and texture
Use daily for several months
Additional treatments (if needed)
These are usually recommended for thicker or more noticeable scars:
Pressure garments:
Used mainly for larger or burn scars
Worn under specialist guidance for several months
Steroid injections:
Can help reduce raised scars (hypertrophic or keloid scars)
Laser or light treatments:
May improve colour and texture after the scar matures
When should I seek medical advice?
Contact your doctor if your scar:
Becomes very painful or itchy
Becomes thick, raised, or firm
Grows beyond the original wound (keloid scar)
Develops dark or uneven colour changes
Key points to remember
Scars take time to mature (up to 12–18 months)
Daily care makes a significant difference
Sun protection, moisturizing, and massage are important
Every scar heals differently
If you have concerns about how your scar is healing, please speak with your doctor.
If you’d like, I can add post-operative scar protocols (e.g., after breast reduction, skin cancer excision, or hand surgery) or format this with your clinic branding.
A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. This surgery is often performed after significant weight loss or to address age-related skin laxity. The goal is to create smoother, firmer, and more contoured thighs.
Indications for Surgery
- Loose or sagging skin on the thighs
- Excess fat deposits in the thigh area
- Discomfort or hygiene issues due to skin folds
- Poor skin elasticity that does not respond to diet and exercise
The Procedure
- Anaesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia.
- Technique: Incisions are made in the groin area and or the buttock creases, and in some cases, may extend down the inner thigh. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened. It all depends on how much skin needs to be removed.
- Duration: The procedure usually takes 2–3 hours.
Benefits
- Improved contour and firmness of the thighs
- Reduction in skin irritation caused by folds
- Enhanced appearance in clothing
- Boost in self-confidence
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, thigh lift carries risks:
Common Risks:
- Swelling and bruising
- Pain or discomfort
- Scarring
- Temporary numbness
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
Uncommon/Rare Risks:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Poor wound healing
- Asymmetry
- Blood clots (DVT)
- Need for revision surgery
Aftercare
- You may need to wear a compression garment to support the area and reduce swelling.
- Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 4–6 weeks.
- Keep the incision sites clean and dry.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care and medications.
Recovery Timeline
- Week 1–2: Initial swelling and bruising; gradual return to light activity.
- Week 4–6: Resume normal activities and non-strenuous exercise.
- 3–6 Months: Final results become more apparent as swelling subsides.
- 12 Months: Scars begin to fade.
When to Seek Help
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
- Fever or signs of infection
- Increased redness, swelling, or discharge
- Severe pain not relieved by medication
- Sudden swelling or pain in the legs
Outcomes
Most patients are satisfied with the results of their thigh lift. The improvement in contour is typically long-lasting, especially when combined with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Scars are permanent but usually fade over time.
The recovery process after an arm lift typically involves some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks and to wear a compression garment to support the healing process.
Full recovery can take several months.
As with any surgical procedure, an arm lift carries potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, and changes in skin sensation. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions to minimize complications.
To prepare for an arm lift surgery, you should follow your surgeon's instructions, which may include stopping smoking, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for someone to help you during the initial recovery period. It is also important to maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle to achieve the best results.
1. To improve vision (functional)
As we age, the eyelid skin stretches and droops (dermatochalasis). In some people it becomes so heavy that it:
Hangs over the eyelashes
Blocks the upper and outer part of the visual field
Makes reading, driving, and computer work difficult
Causes brow fatigue and headaches from constantly lifting the brows
This is a medical indication and is often covered by OHIP if visual field testing confirms obstruction.
2. To look less tired or heavy-eyed (cosmetic)
Even without vision loss, excess upper-lid skin can make people look:
Tired
Sad
Angry
Older than they feel
Upper blepharoplasty restores a clean eyelid crease and a brighter, more open eye without changing your identity.
3. To help makeup and glasses
Heavy lids can:
Make eyeshadow smear
Push lashes down
Make glasses sit awkwardly
Irritate the skin
What the operation involves
1. Pre-op marking
With you sitting upright, and I will marks:
The natural eyelid crease
How much skin can be safely removed The goal is to never make the eye look hollow or unable to close.
2. Anaesthetic
Usually done under:
Local anaesthetic (numbing injections)
Sometimes with light oral or IV sedation
You are awake but comfortable.
3. The incision
A fine incision is made in the natural eyelid crease so the scar is hidden when your eyes are open.
4. What is removed
Depending on your anatomy:
Excess skin
A thin strip of muscle
Sometimes small bulges of fat
Nothing essential to blinking is removed.
5. Closure
The incision is closed with:
Very fine sutures or
Skin glue
The whole procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes.
Recovery
First week
Swelling and bruising (often looks worse days 2–4)
Eyes may feel tight or dry
Ice packs help
Stitches out at 5–7 days (if used)
2–3 weeks
Most bruising gone
You can usually return to social activities
6–12 weeks
Final shape and scars settle
Scars fade into the crease and are usually barely visible
Risks (uncommon in expert hands)
Bruising or bleeding
Infection
Temporary dry eyes
Asymmetry
Very rarely: difficulty closing the eye (usually temporary)
Serious complications like vision loss are extremely rare.
The result
A good upper blepharoplasty:
Makes the eyes look more open and rested
Improves peripheral vision if it was blocked
Keeps you looking like yourself, just less tired
If you’d like, you can tell me:
Is this for vision, appearance, or both?
Are you noticing brow droop as well?
That helps determine whether you would benefit from just eyelids or also a brow lift.
What is a mastopexy?
A mastopexy, or breast lift, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape the breasts. It removes excess skin and tightens surrounding tissue to improve breast position and contour.
This procedure does not significantly increase breast size. If you want fuller breasts, an implant may be considered at the same time.
Why consider a breast lift?
You may consider mastopexy if you have:
Drooping or sagging breasts (ptosis)
Downward-pointing nipples
Loss of breast shape after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
Uneven breast position
What does the surgery involve?
Performed under general anaesthesia
Excess skin is removed and the breast is reshaped
The nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast
Incisions may be:
Around the areola
Vertical (down the breast)
Sometimes along the fold under the breast
The exact technique depends on your anatomy and goals.
After surgery
Recovery
You will go home the same day or the next day
A support bra is worn for several weeks
Swelling and bruising are common in the first few weeks
Most patients return to light activities in 1–2 weeks
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks
Wound care
Dressings will be applied after surgery
Stitches may dissolve or be removed in clinic
Keep incisions clean and dry as instructed
Scars
Scars are permanent but usually fade over time
They may be red and firm initially, improving over 6–18 months
Scar care (moisturizing, massage, silicone, sun protection) is important
Expected results
Breasts will appear lifted and firmer
Shape improves over several months as swelling settles
Results are long-lasting but may change with:
Aging
Weight changes
Pregnancy
Possible risks and complications
All surgery carries some risk. These include:
Common risks
Swelling and bruising
Scarring
Temporary changes in nipple sensation
Less common risks
Infection
Bleeding or hematoma
Delayed wound healing
Asymmetry (uneven breasts)
Loss of nipple sensation (usually temporary, rarely permanent)
Rare risks
Partial or complete loss of the nipple or areola
Blood clots
Important considerations
Smoking increases the risk of complications and poor healing
Future pregnancy and breastfeeding may affect results
Mastopexy may affect the ability to breastfeed
This procedure is usually considered cosmetic and is not covered by OHIP unless medically indicated
When to seek medical attention
Contact your surgeon or seek care if you have:
Increasing pain, swelling, or redness
Fever
Drainage from the wound
Sudden breast swelling or firmness
Follow-up care
You will have follow-up visits to:
Monitor healing
Remove sutures if needed
Review scar care and recovery
Key points
Mastopexy improves breast position and shape
It does not significantly increase size
Recovery takes several weeks, with full results over months
Scars improve with time and proper care
What is an abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck,” is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the abdominal wall muscles. It improves the shape and contour of the abdomen.
This procedure is not a weight-loss surgery.
Why consider an abdominoplasty?
You may consider this procedure if you have:
Loose or excess abdominal skin (e.g., after pregnancy or weight loss)
Weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis)
Stretching or sagging of the abdominal wall
Difficulty achieving a flat abdomen despite diet and exercise
What does the surgery involve?
Performed under general anaesthesia
Excess skin and fat are removed
Abdominal muscles may be tightened
The belly button is usually repositioned
A horizontal incision is made low on the abdomen (hip-to-hip), often hidden below underwear
In some cases, liposuction may be performed at the same time to improve contour and we will discuss whether this is suitable for you at your consultation.
After surgery
Recovery
You may go home the same day or stay overnight
You will need to walk slightly bent forward at first to reduce tension on the incision
Most patients return to light activities in 2–3 weeks
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 6 weeks
Full recovery may take several months
Dressings and drains
Dressings will be applied to the incision
Drains may be placed to remove fluid and are usually removed within 1–2 weeks, Sometimes I quilt the abdominal skin with dissolvable sutures which removes the need for drains.
A compression garment is worn for several weeks (12 minimum) to reduce swelling and support healing
Wound care
Keep the incision clean and dry
Can shower after 5 -7 days
I will tell you about your dressing changes when I see you for follow up
Stitches are dissolvable
Scars
The scar is permanent but usually fades over time
It may appear red and firm initially, improving over 6–18 months
Scar care (moisturizing, massage, silicone, sun protection) is recommended
Expected results
A flatter, firmer abdomen
Improved contour and waistline
Results are long-lasting if weight is stable
Changes can still occur with:
Weight gain or loss
Aging
Future pregnancy
Possible risks and complications
All surgery carries some risk.
Common risks
Swelling and bruising
Pain or discomfort
Scarring
Numbness above the scar and under the bellybutton
Less common risks
Infection
Bleeding or hematoma
Fluid collection (seroma)
Delayed wound healing
Rare but serious risks
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
Skin loss or poor wound healing
Asymmetry or contour irregularities
Important considerations
Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications
You should be close to your ideal weight before surgery
Future pregnancy can reverse the results
This procedure is usually cosmetic and not covered by OHIP, unless medically indicated
When to seek medical attention
Contact your me or seek care if you have:
Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
Fever
Sudden swelling or fluid buildup
Shortness of breath or chest pain (seek urgent care)
Drainage from the wound
Follow-up care
You will have follow-up appointments to:
Monitor healing
Remove drains if present
Review activity progression and scar care
Key points
Abdominoplasty improves abdominal shape and contour
It is not a substitute for weight loss
Recovery takes several weeks, with full results over months
Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results
What is an earlobe reduction?
Earlobe reduction (lobuloplasty) is a minor surgical procedure to reduce the size of the earlobes or reshape stretched, elongated, or torn earlobes. This may be done for cosmetic reasons or to repair damage from earrings, trauma, or aging.
Why is this procedure done?
You may consider earlobe reduction if you have:
Large or elongated earlobes
Stretched piercing holes (from heavy earrings or gauges)
Split or torn earlobes
Asymmetry between earlobes
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure is usually done in a clinic under local anesthesia (freezing).
A small portion of the earlobe is removed.
The remaining tissue is reshaped and carefully sutured.
The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on complexity.
What are the benefits?
Improved appearance and symmetry
Repair of torn or stretched earlobes
Ability to re-pierce ears in the future (if desired)
What are the risks?
All procedures carry some risks. These may include:
Bleeding or infection
Scarring (usually minimal)
Asymmetry or contour irregularities
Recurrence of stretching if heavy earrings are worn again
Need for revision surgery (uncommon)
Numbness
What should I expect after surgery?
Mild swelling, redness, or discomfort for a few days
Stitches are usually removed in 5–7 days (or may dissolve)
A small scar will form and fade over time
Aftercare instructions
Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24–48 hours
Gently clean as instructed by your surgeon
Avoid pressure on the ears (e.g., sleeping on them) for several days
Do not wear earrings until advised
When can I re-pierce my ears?
Re-piercing is usually possible after 12 weeks, once healing is complete
It should be done slightly away from the scar
When should I seek medical attention?
Contact your doctor if you notice:
Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
Pus or discharge
Fever
Wound opening
Cost and coverage
Earlobe reduction is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by OHIP unless performed for medical reasons (e.g., traumatic tear).
Follow-up
A follow-up visit is usually scheduled within 1 week to assess healing and remove sutures if needed.
What is gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia is a benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of breast tissue in males. It can affect one or both sides and may occur at any age.
It is caused by an imbalance between hormones (estrogen and testosterone), leading to growth of breast tissue.
Common Causes
Normal hormonal changes
Newborns
Teenagers (puberty)
Older men
Medications
Some heart, prostate, or psychiatric medications
Anabolic steroids
Medical conditions
Liver or kidney disease
Hormonal disorders
Substances
Alcohol
Cannabis
In many cases, no specific cause is found
Symptoms
Enlargement of breast tissue
Tenderness or sensitivity
Firm or rubbery tissue under the nipple
Usually not painful, but can be uncomfortable
How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor may:
Perform a physical examination
Order blood tests (if needed)
Request imaging (e.g., ultrasound or mammogram in select cases)
Is it dangerous?
Gynaecomastia is not cancer
Male breast cancer is rare, but should be considered if there are:
Hard, irregular lumps
Skin changes
Nipple discharge (especially bloody)
Treatment Options
1. Observation (No treatment)
Common in teenagers
Often resolves within 6–18 months
2. Medical Treatment
Occasionally used if caused by hormonal imbalance
Most effective early
3. Surgery
Considered if:
Persistent (usually >1–2 years)
Painful
Causing psychological distress
Significant size
Surgical options include:
Liposuction (removes fatty tissue)
Excision (removes glandular tissue)
Combination of both
If You Are Having Surgery
Before Surgery
Stop smoking (improves healing)
Review medications with your doctor
Avoid certain blood thinners if advised
After Surgery
Pain Control
Mild to moderate discomfort is expected
Use:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Prescribed medications if needed
Dressings & Garment
A compression garment is usually worn for:
6-12 weeks
Helps reduce swelling and improve contour
Activity
Light activity: within a few days
Avoid:
Heavy lifting
Chest exercise
Strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks
Return to Work
Desk work: 1 week
Physical work: 2–4 weeks
Recovery
Swelling and bruising are common
Final results may take 3–6 months
Scars will fade over time
Risks of Surgery
Bleeding or hematoma
Infection
Scarring
Uneven contour or asymmetry
Nipple sensitivity changes
Rarely, need for revision surgery
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor if you develop:
Increasing swelling or pain
Sudden enlargement of the chest (possible bleeding)
Redness or drainage
Fever (>38°C)
Follow-Up
Usually 1–2 weeks after surgery, then as needed
Important Notes
Results are generally long-lasting
Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results
Avoid anabolic steroids and substances that may trigger recurrence
Consultations are available at:
203-1919 Riverside Drive, Ottawa
Queensway Carleton Hospital
Tel: 613 416 0004
Fax: 613 416 0044
Email: info@barbarajemec.com
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Meet Dr Jemec
A little information about Dr Jemec

Dr Barbara Jemec
MD, PhD, FRCS(Plast), FEBOPRAS, FRCSC
Dr. Jemec is a triple Board certified Plastic Surgeon.
She is a Staff Plastic Surgeon working at the Queensway Carleton Hospital. Most recently she came from Toronto, where she worked at the Toronto Western Hospital.
Originally, she is a British-trained Staff Plastic Surgeon with now 22 years’ experience as a senior clinician in Hand and Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Jemec obtained the FRCSC in 2019, the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada 2021 and holds an independent license with the CPSO.
Jemec furthermore holds the Intercollegiate Examination in Plastic Surgery from the UK (FRCS(Plast)) and the European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS).
She has a higher graduate research degree in Hand Surgery (Dupuytren’s Disease) from the University of London, MD(Res), which has been recognised by the University of Toronto as a PhD, and continue to publish in clinical research.
Dr. Jemec has extensive experience in Global Surgery, and is the founder of the Board of the British Foundation of International Reconstructive Surgery and Training (BFIRST), which is the official charity of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, and aims to train local surgeons in resource poor countries in relevant reconstructive surgery to an independent level. She has worked in Ghana, Mali, Bolivia, Sierra Leone, Zambia and Bangladesh, and currently heads up a project in Breast Cancer MultiDisciplinary Tumour Boards in Nigeria and Ghana with local clinicians.
She was elected to serve on Council for the British Society for Surgery of the Hand (BSSH), the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) and the Royal Society of Medicine (RSM), where she served as the president for the Plastic Surgery section.
Dr. Jemec now sits on the Board for the Canadian Society for Surgery of the Hand (CSSH)
FAQ
Understanding Dupuytren's Disease: Treatment Options in Ottawa
Understanding Abdominoplasty: What to Expect During Recovery and Rehabilitation
Transformative Hand-Focused Plastic Surgery: Restoring Function and Confidence




EXPERIENCE EXPERT SURGICAL CARE

My Commitment
I specialize in hand surgery, skin cancer treatment, and aesthetic surgery. I have over 20 years of experience as a staff surgeon. My practice emphasizes comprehensive patient education and quality care. I provide detailed information about each surgical procedure, ensuring that my patients are informed and comfortable throughout their journey.
