Breast Lump Removal Surgery

Early detection and prompt treatment of breast lumps can improve outcomes and survival rates. Consult our breast surgeons today for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Dr Jesse Hu
Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery
Dr Felicia Tan Li Sher
Director, Consultant General Surgeon

What is Breast Lump Removal Surgery?

Breast lump removal surgery involves removing abnormal growths from the breast. Breast lumps can be benign or cancerous, and prompt removal is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Early detection and treatment of breast lumps can reduce complications and increase survival rates.

Types of Breast Lumps

Breast lump removal surgery is performed to remove abnormal breast tissue that could be cancerous. There are various types of breast lumps, including:

  • Fibroadenomas. Noncancerous lumps that are typically smooth and movable.
  • Cysts. Fluid-filled sacs that may be tender to the touch and change in size during the menstrual cycle.
  • Lipomas. Fatty lumps that are soft and doughy to the touch.
  • Phyllodes tumours. Rare tumours that can be benign or cancerous and can grow quickly.
  • Breast cancer. A lump that can be hard or soft, irregularly shaped, and typically does not move around the breast.

Types of Breast Lump Removal

Breast lump removal can be performed through several methods, depending on the type and size of the lump. The most common types of breast lump removal are:

A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the lump/tumour and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue. This is typically done for smaller breast lumps.

Duration of procedure
1 - 2 hours
Recovery time
1 - 2 weeks

Mastectomy involves removing the entire breast. This is recommended for larger lumps or if cancer is suspected.

Duration of procedure
2 - 3 hours
Recovery time
Few weeks - few months

An excisional biopsy removes the entire lump and a small amount of surrounding tissue. This is typically done for lumps that are suspicious or concerning.

Duration of procedure
30 - 60 minutes
Recovery time
Few days - 1 week

Needle biopsy is a less invasive procedure that involves removing a small sample of tissue from the lump using a needle. This is generally performed for smaller lumps or for lumps that are difficult to reach.

Duration of procedure
15 - 30 minutes
Recovery time
Few days

Preparing for Breast Lump Removal Surgery

Breast lump removal surgery is a surgical procedure that requires preparation beforehand. Here is a brief overview of the preparation steps:

  • Medical evaluation. The patient will undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine their overall health and any medical conditions that may affect the surgery.
  • Imaging tests. Imaging tests such as a mammogram, ultrasound or MRI may be done to locate the lump and to check if it is cancerous.
  • Fasting. Fasting may be required for a certain period of time before the surgery.
  • Pre-surgical instructions. The surgeon will provide detailed instructions on what to do before and after the surgery, including any medications or activities to avoid.

Choosing a Breast Lump Removal Surgeon

Choosing a qualified breast surgeon in Singapore is a crucial step in ensuring the success of the surgery and overall recovery. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a surgeon:

Qualifications and experience

Look for a surgeon who is experienced in performing breast lump removal surgery.

Reputation and patient reviews

Research the surgeon’s reputation and read reviews from previous patients to gauge their expertise and patient care.

Consultation process and communication

Choose a surgeon who makes you feel comfortable and thoroughly answers your questions. Communication and trust between you and your surgeon are essential for a successful outcome.

Cost of surgery and insurance coverage

Consider the cost of the surgery and whether your insurance plan covers it. Speak to our friendly clinic staff to learn more about financing options.

Cost of Breast Lump Removal Surgery In Singapore

The cost of breast lump removal in Singapore can vary depending on several factors such as:

Surgeon's fees

This includes the cost of the surgeon’s time and expertise during the procedure, which may vary according to the severity and type of lump.

Anaesthesia fees

The anaesthesia fee includes the cost of administering and monitoring anaesthesia during the procedure.

Hospital charges

This includes the cost of using the hospital facilities, such as the operating room and recovery room, and any equipment used during the procedure.

Pathology fees

Pathology fee includes the cost of testing the lump tissue for cancer during a biopsy.

Risks and Complications

Breast lump removal surgery, like any surgical procedure, comes with risks and potential complications, including the following:

  • Bleeding and infection
  • Scarring and changes in breast shape
  • Lymphedema, or swelling of the arm due to fluid buildup
  • Numbness or tingling in the breast or arm
  • Difficulty with movement or range of motion in the arm or shoulder
  • Damage to nearby structures, such as nerves or blood vessels

Aftercare and Follow-up

Aftercare and follow-ups are crucial for a successful recovery. Here is a brief list of what patients can expect:

  • Pain management. Doctors will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort during recovery.
  • Rest and limited activity. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and driving for a few weeks after surgery to ensure proper healing.
  • Wound care. Instructions on how to care for the incision site and any drainage tubes that may be in place will be provided.
  • Follow-up appointments. Patients will need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and to discuss any concerns or questions with their doctor.

Dr Jesse Hu

Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

Dr Jesse specialises in managing both benign and malignant breast and thyroid conditions, which also includes breast pain, breast lumps, breastfeeding problems, neck lumps, amongst others.

Her dual expertise in cancer removal and plastic surgery techniques expands the design of individualized treatments, leading to holistic patient outcomes.

Dr Jesse was part of the teaching faculties of both NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of medical students and trainee doctors.

  • Surgical training at NUS School of Medicine
  • FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons) Edinburgh, UK in 2014
  • Completed 2 Health Manpower Development Program (HMDP) fellowships at Oxford University Hospital, UK in 2016

Dr Jesse is recognized as an authority in breast cancer and thyroid surgery and a sought-after conference speaker.

Read Full Bio

Dr Felicia Tan Li Sher

Director, Consultant General Surgeon

Dr Felicia is actively involved in promoting breast cancer awareness. She has also been invited to give lectures and public talks on breast cancer related issues both locally and internationally.

Her clinical interest lies in treatment of breast cancer and the use of various surgical techniques to achieve the best oncologic and cosmetic outcome for her patients.

She is the pioneer of the procedure radioisotope occult lesion localisation (ROLL) in Singapore – which is used for locating non-palpable breast lesions and micro-calcifications for surgical excision.

  • Bachelor in Medicine and Surgery from the National University of Singapore
  • RCSEd (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh)
  • Post-graduate training as a General Surgeon at NCC and SGH, subspecializing in breast surgery.

She is also adept with the whole range of breast surgical procedures including vacuum assisted biopsies and endoscopic (key-hole) breast surgery for breast lesions.

 

Read Full Bio

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    Breast Lump Removal Surgery In Singapore

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    What are the causes of breast lumps?

    Breast lumps can be caused by various factors, including hormonal changes, infection, injury, or cancer.

    How can I reduce my risk of developing breast lumps?

    There are several ways to reduce your risk of developing breast lumps, including maintaining a healthy lifestyle, performing regular breast self-examinations, and attending regular breast cancer screenings.

    How often should I have follow-up appointments after breast lump removal surgery?

    Your doctor will recommend a follow-up schedule based on your individual circumstances, but typically patients are seen for follow-up appointments every few months.