Breast Cancer Surgery in Singapore

What Are the Goals of Breast Cancer Surgery?

Breast cancer surgery is a procedure performed to remove cancerous tissue from the breast and, in some cases, nearby lymph nodes. It is a key part of breast cancer treatment and may be recommended alone or alongside other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy or hormonal therapy.

The main goals of our breast cancer surgery approach are to:

• Remove cancer effectively
• Reduce the risk of cancer recurrence
• Preserve as much healthy tissue as possible
• Maintain breast appearance where appropriate

Types of Breast Cancer Surgeries in Singapore

The type of breast cancer surgery recommended depends on the size and location of the tumour, the stage of the cancer, whether lymph nodes are involved and the patient’s overall treatment plan.

• Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy)

  Breast-conserving surgery, also known as a lumpectomy, involves removing the cancerous tumour along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast. This approach may be suitable for patients with early-stage breast cancer or smaller tumours localised to one area of the breast.

• Mastectomy

  A mastectomy is a procedure to remove the entirety of the breast tissue. This may be recommended when the cancer is more extensive, affects multiple areas of the breast or when breast-conserving surgery is not suitable. Depending on the individual case, some patients may also choose mastectomy as part of their personal treatment preferences or risk-reduction strategy.

• Lymph Node Surgery

  Lymph node surgery is performed to determine whether breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, most commonly in the underarm area. This may involve a sentinel lymph node biopsy, where only the first few lymph nodes are removed for examination, or an axillary lymph node dissection if more extensive removal is needed. The findings help guide staging and further treatment decisions.

Making a Decision Between Lumpectomy and Mastectomy

Choosing between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy can be a deeply personal decision for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Each patient has different individual preferences regarding recovery, appearance and long-term peace of mind. In many early-stage breast cancer cases, patients have the opportunity to assess risk and come to their own decisions.

Care and Guidance at Every Stage of Breast Cancer Surgery

From the first consultation through breast cancer treatment and follow-up, your breast cancer surgery care at Maven Surgery is structured to support informed decision-making while remaining flexible to your individual needs.

• Step 1: Detection and Diagnostic Assessment
  Breast cancer may first be detected through screening or after symptoms such as a breast lump, nipple discharge or skin changes are identified. Mammograms, breast ultrasound and biopsies are used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the size, location and characteristics of the cancer. These findings form the basis for surgical planning and treatment recommendations.
• Step 2: Personalised Surgical Planning
  Once breast cancer is confirmed, a personalised treatment plan is developed based on the type and stage of the cancer, whether lymph nodes are involved and the suitability of breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy. Factors such as achieving clear surgical margins, preserving breast appearance where appropriate and reducing recurrence risk are carefully considered during this stage.
• Step 3: Surgical Treatment
  When surgery is recommended, the approach is chosen carefully based on medical factors and your preferences. Options include breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy. Lymph node assessment, such as sentinel node biopsy, may be performed for invasive cancers if indicated.
• Step 4: Additional Cancer Treatments
  Some patients may benefit from treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy or hormone therapy after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence. These options are discussed in a clear and supportive manner, so you know what to expect.
• Step 5: Long-Term Recovery & Follow-Up Care
  After treatment, follow-up care focuses on healing, monitoring and long-term well-being. Support continues beyond surgery to help you adjust both physically and emotionally, with guidance provided as your condition changes and develops.

Supporting Women Through Their Breast Cancer Treatment Journey

A breast cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty, emotional stress and difficult decisions at every stage of treatment. Having the right medical support and clear guidance can help patients better understand their condition, feel more reassured about their options and move forward with greater confidence throughout their treatment journey.

At Maven Surgery, our breast clinic in Singapore, we provide personalised counselling and clear medical guidance to help patients understand the reasons behind each care approach that they are being guided through. Care is led by Dr Chong Chee Keong, a general surgeon with extensive experience in breast cancer surgery and the management of complex breast conditions. He works closely with patients to develop individualised treatment plans while providing compassionate support, careful surgical planning and continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery and follow-up.

If you have noticed symptoms, received a diagnosis or would like further info on your treatment options, a timely medical assessment can make a meaningful difference. Contact us today to arrange a consultation session.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer Surgery

Our Breast Surgeon in Singapore

Dr Chong Chee Keong

Breast, Colorectal and General Surgeon

MBBS (Singapore), FRCS (Edinburgh), FRCS (Glasgow), FAMS (Singapore)

Specialist Accreditation in Intensive Care Medicine

Specialists Accreditation Board

Dr Chong Chee Keong has more than 20 years of experience caring for patients with breast cancer. His practice covers the full spectrum of breast cancer surgery, from early-stage disease to more complex cases requiring coordinated, multidisciplinary care.

As a dual-fellowship trained surgeon, Dr Chong places strong emphasis on personalised treatment planning, clear communication and long-term follow-up. He works closely with medical and radiation oncologists to ensure that each patient receives coordinated care that supports recovery, confidence, and overall well-being.