Facing a diagnosis that may require breast removal surgery – also known as mastectomy – can be overwhelming. This surgical procedure involves removing one or both breasts, either partially or entirely, often as part of treatment for breast cancer.
In Singapore, breast removal surgery is commonly performed in cases of early-stage or locally advanced breast cancer. It may also be considered as a preventive measure for women with BRCA gene mutations. Choosing to undergo this procedure is a significant decision that involves not only medical factors but also emotional and lifestyle considerations.
At Andrew Lee Breast Clinic, our doctors take the time to understand each patient’s condition, concerns, and priorities. This personalised approach helps women feel supported as they consider their options, the risks of breast removal surgery and the breast tumour removal recovery journey ahead.
Types of Breast Removal Surgeries
There are different types of mastectomy procedures depending on the extent of the cancer, breast size and personal choice:
Total mastectomy (simple mastectomy): Removes the entire breast tissue, including the nipple and areola. Often recommended when cancer affects a large area or for high-risk preventive care.
Partial mastectomy (lumpectomy): Removes only the tumour and a margin of surrounding tissue, often for early-stage breast cancer.
Single vs. double mastectomy: Some patients remove both breasts due to genetic risk or recurrence concerns, while others remove only the affected side.
Our doctor will help you explore these options in detail, weighing each choice concerning cancer control, future reconstruction and overall well-being.
What to Know Before Mastectomy: Key Medical Considerations
Before undergoing breast cancer surgery, a thorough medical assessment is done to help you and your care team make informed decisions about your treatment plan.
These evaluations ensure that surgery is the right step—and help determine what other therapies you may need before or after the procedure.
Pre-Surgical Diagnostic Tests
Our care team will likely recommend several diagnostic tests, such as:
- Mammograms and breast ultrasounds to detect abnormal tissue or changes in the breast
- Breast MRI is used for detailed imaging, especially in women with dense breast tissue or multiple lesions
- Core or needle biopsy to confirm the cancer type, grade and stage
- Hormone receptor testing (ER, PR, HER2) to determine whether hormone-based therapies will be effective
- Genetic screening, such as BRCA testing, especially if you’re under 40 or have a strong family history of breast cancer
Therapy Before or After Surgery
Breast surgery may be one part of a broader treatment journey. Our doctor may recommend therapies to improve outcomes or reduce the risk of recurrence:
- Neoadjuvant therapy (before surgery)
- Chemotherapy, hormonal therapy or targeted therapy to shrink the tumour
- Can make surgery more effective and less invasive
- Also helps assess how the tumour responds to medication
- Adjuvant therapy (after surgery)
- Radiation, chemotherapy or hormonal therapy post-surgery
- Helps lower the risk of the cancer returning
At Andrew Lee Breast Clinic, our doctor works closely with oncologists, radiologists and plastic surgeons to coordinate every stage of your care.
This integrated team approach to breast cancer surgery in Singapore ensures your treatment plan supports not only your recovery but your long-term health and peace of mind.
Emotional and Psychological Readiness
The emotional impact of a mastectomy can be deeply personal and profound. Losing a breast is not just a physical change — it can touch every part of how you see yourself, from your body confidence to your sense of identity and connection with others.
You may experience:
- Anxiety or fear before surgery
- Grief or loss during recovery
- Relief or empowerment after completing treatment
Our clinic connects patients with counsellors and support resources in Singapore to help you manage the psychological aspects of surgery and recovery.
Discussing Breast Reconstruction Options
If you’re considering breast reconstruction, our breast surgeon will walk you through your options. Your goals, medical needs and comfort will shape the decision together.
- Immediate reconstruction is done at the same time as the mastectomy. It may help reduce the emotional impact of losing a breast and minimise the number of surgeries needed.
- Delayed reconstruction is performed after completing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. This gives your body time to heal and allows flexibility if your breast cancer surgery needs to be adjusted.
Two main types of reconstruction:
- Implant-based reconstruction uses silicone or saline implants placed under the chest muscle or breast tissue. It’s often a shorter procedure with quicker recovery and doesn’t require taking tissue from other parts of the body.
- Autologous reconstruction uses your own tissue from areas like the abdomen, back, or thigh to rebuild the breast. While it offers a more natural look and feel, it involves a longer recovery due to additional incisions.
Some women choose not to undergo reconstruction—and that’s a valid, personal decision. Our breast surgeon respects and supports your choice, whatever path you take.
Choosing the Right Surgeon and Facility
Choosing a breast surgeon in Singapore involves more than credentials—it’s about trust, communication and patient-centred care.
Here’s what to look for:
- MOH-accredited clinic or hospital
- A surgeon who specialises in breast conditions
- Transparent explanations about treatment plans and recovery
At Andrew Lee Breast Clinic, our surgeon brings focused expertise in breast health and cancer surgery. We aim to provide clarity, reassurance and a sense of partnership throughout your treatment.
Financial and Insurance Considerations
Surgery costs depend on several factors:
- Public vs. private hospital setting
- Whether breast reconstruction is included
- Insurance and Medisave eligibility
You can use Medisave and Integrated Shield Plans to offset part of the cost. Our team will help you:
- Check what your insurance covers
- Understand out-of-pocket expenses
- Explore additional financial assistance if needed
This planning helps you focus fully on healing without financial surprises.
Preparing for Breast Removal Surgery
In the lead-up to your surgery, you may be asked to:
- Complete blood tests, ECG or imaging
- Stop certain medications
- Fast for several hours before the procedure
Hospital stay is typically:
- 1–2 days for a simple mastectomy
- Up to 3–4 days if reconstruction is done
Here are a few practical ways to prepare:
- Arrange for transport to and from the hospital
- Set up meals and household help for 1–2 weeks
- Create a comfortable recovery area at home
Our breast surgeon and care team will provide detailed instructions on what to do after breast tumour removal, including post-surgical care, wound care and follow-up appointments. We’ll also guide you through the full surgery recovery timeline, so you know what to expect during each stage.
Continued Care for Every Stage at Andrew Lee Breast Clinic
Breast removal surgery is never a one-size-fits-all experience. It is a medical treatment, an emotional journey and a deeply personal decision all at once. Whether you’re facing surgery, navigating recovery or thinking about reconstruction, every decision is personal and deserves time, guidance and support.
At Andrew Lee Breast Clinic, we offer reassurance, thoughtful care and space to ask questions and weigh your options. We understand the physical and emotional weight that comes with breast cancer surgery, and we’re here to walk that journey with you.
If you’re unsure about your next step, considering a second opinion or simply need someone to talk to, we welcome you to book a consultation.
