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Dr. Tan Chuan Chien

Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction surgery is a procedure performed to restore the breast to its natural form as much as possible following a mastectomy. This surgery can be accomplished using an implant or the patient's own tissue. The goal is to create a breast that closely matches the appearance and feel of the natural breast.

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Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures

Implant-Based Reconstruction

Implant-based reconstruction uses breast implants, such as silicone or saline, to restore the shape and volume of the breast. This method is often performed immediately after a mastectomy in the same operation, known as immediate reconstruction. However, it can also be done in a separate surgery at a later date, referred to as delayed reconstruction. This approach offers a relatively straightforward and predictable outcome, with the option to choose the size and shape of the implants.

Tissue-Based Reconstruction

Tissue-based reconstruction uses the patient’s own body tissues to reconstruct the breast, providing a more natural appearance and texture. The tissues can be sourced from areas such as the tummy, back, or buttocks. This method results in breasts that feel more natural and age with the patient. While it involves a more complex surgical procedure, many patients prefer this option for its realistic results and the use of their own tissue.

Preparation for Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Preparing for breast reconstruction surgery involves several steps:

  • Consultation: Meet with the surgeon to discuss options, review medical history, and develop a surgical plan. This consultation is important for understanding the patient’s goals and addressing any concerns.
  • Medical Evaluation: Conduct preoperative tests such as blood work and imaging to ensure the patient is fit for surgery. This step helps to identify any underlying conditions that may affect the surgery or recovery.
  • Preoperative Instructions: Follow specific instructions regarding medications, fasting, and lifestyle modifications to optimise surgical outcomes. Patients may be advised to stop taking certain medications that could increase bleeding.

Risks of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Here are the potential complications and risks associated with the procedure:

  • Infection: There is a risk of infection at the surgical site, which may require antibiotics or additional surgery. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, warmth, and discharge from the incision site.
  • Bleeding: Potential for bleeding, both during and after the procedure. Excessive bleeding may require additional intervention to control.
  • Scarring: Visible scars will remain, though they may fade over time. The extent of scarring can vary based on the individual’s healing process and the surgical technique used.
  • Implant Complications: Issues such as implant rupture, capsular contracture (hardening around the implant), or implant displacement can occur. These complications may necessitate additional surgeries to correct.
  • Tissue Flap Complications: Risks include flap failure, where the transplanted tissue does not survive, hernia at the donor site, or changes in tissue appearance over time. Flap failure may require another surgery to remove the failed tissue.
  • Changes in Sensation: The reconstructed breast and the donor site may experience changes in sensation, such as numbness or hypersensitivity. Some sensations may return over time, but they may not be the same as before surgery.
  • Asymmetry: There may be differences in size, shape, or position between the reconstructed breast and the natural breast. Additional surgeries may be required to achieve better symmetry.
DR. TAN CHUAN CHIEN

Key Guiding Philosophies

Competency

Dr. Tan is a Fellowship-trained Breast & Endocrine Surgeon who is registered on the Specialist Register (General Surgery) in both Singapore and Australia. He completed his formal Breast Surgery training through the BreastSurgANZ Fellowship Programme. He was previously Head, Division of Breast & Endocrine Surgery, NTFGH where he was the pioneer breast surgeon there developing a comprehensive, evidence-based Breast Surgery service.

Care for the wider community

Dr. Tan is passionate about engaging the wider community with regards to breast cancer outcomes. He volunteers with the Singapore Cancer Society and served as the Chairman of the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign Committee from 2018 to 2021. He continues to currently serve as a member of this committee. During his time in the public hospital, Dr. Tan was involved in research on breast cancer screening and care, where he succeeded in obtaining competitive grants and managing a research team, with the overall aim to improve breast cancer outcomes in Singapore.

Patient-centered care

Dr. Tan believes in the importance of the patient experience and the partnership between doctor and patients in healing sickness. He also believes no two individuals are the same. He believes in the philosophy of personalised tailor-made care plans for each of his patients to meet their individual expectations and needs.

Comprehensive Breast, Thyroid and General Surgery service

Dr. Tan aims to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care to all his patients, in a modern equipped clinic along the entire spectrum of the patient journey from diagnosis, through treatment/surgery and aftercare.

Step-by-Step Procedure of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Anaesthesia

The patient is administered general anaesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The anaesthesia team will monitor the patient’s vital signs continuously.

Mastectomy (If Not Performed Already)

The breast tissue is removed if this has not been done previously. This step is important in patients undergoing immediate reconstruction.

Reconstruction

  • Implant-Based: For implant-based reconstruction, the surgeon creates a pocket under the chest muscle or remaining breast tissue. An implant or tissue expander is then placed into this pocket. If a tissue expander is used, it will be gradually filled over several weeks or months to stretch the skin and muscle before placing the permanent implant.
  • Tissue-Based: For tissue-based reconstruction, the surgeon harvests skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from the donor site (e.g., tummy, back, or buttocks). This tissue is then transferred to the chest area and shaped to form the new breast. Microsurgery techniques may be used to connect blood vessels to ensure the tissue survives.

Surgical Closure

Incisions are closed using sutures, and dressings are applied to protect the surgical site.

As a supporter of personalised surgical care, I understand that no two patients are the same. I believe in tailoring management for each patient to meet each individual’s needs and expectations. A patient’s journey can be difficult and frustrating at times, so I strive to make this experience as pleasant and seamless as possible.

Dr. Tan Chuan Chien
For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and foreigners

Medisave & Insurance Claims

Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.

*NTUC Income (Extended Panel)

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have scars after the surgery?

Yes, scars are inevitable, but they will fade over time. The surgeon will place incisions strategically to minimise visible scarring, often along natural skin folds.

Can I choose the size and shape of my new breast?

Yes, during your consultation, you can discuss your desired outcome with your surgeon. They will help determine the best approach to achieve your goals, considering factors like your body type and overall health.

What are the differences between immediate and delayed reconstruction?

Immediate reconstruction is performed during the same surgery as the mastectomy, which can help preserve breast skin and potentially offer better cosmetic results. Delayed reconstruction occurs months or years later, often after other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, providing time for recovery and treatment completion.

Will the reconstructed breast have the same sensation as before?

Sensation may be reduced or altered in the reconstructed breast. While some patients regain partial sensation over time, the degree of sensory return can vary based on the type of reconstruction and individual healing processes.

Dr. Tan Chuan Chien

Consultant General Surgeon Breast & Thyroid Surgery
  • Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)- The University of Adelaide, Australia
  • Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)
  • Full Registration, Singapore Medical Council (SMC) and Specialist Accreditation Board, Singapore (General Surgery)
  • Full General & Specialist Registration (General Surgery), Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
  • Completed Breast Surgery training through the BreastSurgANZ Fellowship programme
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (FAMS)

Dr. Tan Chuan Chien is a Fellowship-trained Breast and Endocrine Surgeon practicing as a Consultant General Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital, Singapore. He also sees patients at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre and Parkway East Medical Centre. Dr. Tan is a registered Specialist Surgeon (General Surgery) in both Singapore and Australia.

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Modern Facilities

We are equipped with modern and updated equipment, and a team that will take care of all your needs.

Accredited Specialist

Dr. Tan is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). He is also accredited to practice as a Specialist in both Singapore and Australia.

Focused After Care

Dr. Tan firmly believes that transdisciplinary care is the key to every patient’s recovery journey.

Video-consultation for overseas patients

Dr Tan is available via video-consultations for patients who are not in Singapore.

Post-Surgical Care and Recovery

Post-surgical care involves several steps:

  • Pain Management: Pain and discomfort are common after surgery, and prescribed medications will be provided to manage this effectively. Patients should follow the medication schedule and dosage instructions carefully.
  • Wound Care: The surgical site must be kept clean and dry. Patients will receive instructions on how to care for the wound, change dressings, and manage any drains that were placed during surgery.
  • Activity Restrictions: To promote healing and prevent complications, patients will need to follow specific activity restrictions. These may include avoiding heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and certain movements that could strain the surgical site.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are recommended to monitor the healing process, remove any drains, and address any concerns or complications. These visits also provide an opportunity to discuss any additional procedures or adjustments that may be needed.
  • Long-Term Recovery Care: Maintaining breast health is important after reconstruction. Patients should perform regular self-examinations and attend all scheduled medical check-ups. Monitoring for signs of complications, such as changes in the breast shape, pain, or unusual swelling, is also important. Future adjustments or revisions to the reconstructed breast may be necessary as the body changes over time.

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    MAIN CLINIC

    SOG - CC Tan Breast, Thyroid & General Surgery

    OTHER PRACTICE LOCATIONS

    SOG - CC Tan Breast, Thyroid & General Surgery
    (Mount Elizabeth Novena)

    SOG - CC Tan Breast, Thyroid & General Surgery
    (Parkway East)

    MAIN CLINIC

    SOG - CC Tan Breast, Thyroid & General Surgery

    OTHER PRACTICE LOCATIONS

    SOG - CC Tan Breast, Thyroid & General Surgery
    (Mount Elizabeth Novena)

    SOG - CC Tan Breast, Thyroid & General Surgery
    (Parkway East)