About
Dr. Mark Reichman, DDS, FCDS (BC) is a Vancouver-based oral and maxillofacial surgeon with a specialization in children’s cleft lip and palate/craniofacial issues. In addition to operating out of his private practice and heading the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at British Columbia’s Children’s and Women’s Hospital, Mark spends his time on a number of fulfilling hobbies and passions. Over the years, one activity has always stood out above the others: flying.
Mark first gained experience with flying when he tried out hang gliding as a teenager. This sparked an interest that he cultivated over the course of many years as he worked toward becoming a pilot. He began to take lessons in his hometown of Toronto when he was still a student, but he didn’t have the financial means to complete training. He focused on making the most of his studies, specializing in neurosciences at the University of Toronto and interning at Toronto General Hospital. Mark then earned a doctorate in dental surgery in 1989 before he eventually resumed pilot lessons again. However, he had to put his flying career on hold once more for a good reason: he needed to move to Dallas, Texas, so that he could complete his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at the University of Texas.
After Mark trained in Southwestern Medical School in Parkland Hospital for four years, he came back to Vancouver. He launched his career as a dentist and oral surgeon, opening his private practice and joining local and national organizations like the British Columbia Dental Association, the Canadian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the British Columbia Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (which he headed as president for some time). After establishing himself as one of the leading surgeons in the Vancouver area, Mark decided to return to his longtime goal of learning how to fly. The third time was the charm– finally he had the time and means to obtain his pilot’s license and start his flying career.
Mark has always been interested in float planes (a type of seaplane ideal for traveling to remote areas, such as lakes or islands). He currently owns and operates his own float plane, which he keeps at an international airport. Mark loves to fly around his province in the plane, but he also takes trips to more remote areas with his family. They are all avid campers and Mark is able to take his family to scenic inlets, lakes, and campgrounds around the country. One of his favorite locations is Emma Lake, a remote lake located high in the mountains of Saskatchewan. He has also visited Phantom Lake and the Princess Louisa Inlet, which are both located in British Columbia.
As a private pilot, Mark stays up-to-date about the latest developments in the aviation industry, especially float plane manufacturing and modification. He enjoys the freedom that comes with traveling independently as a licensed pilot, and he is always looking for new places to visit in British Columbia and beyond.