Breast cancer treatment Singapore attracts patients seeking high-quality care and clear pricing. This article breaks down surgical options, expected costs across public and private settings, and available financial help in Singapore.
TL;DR
- Surgery costs vary widely public subsidised lumpectomy can start around S$1,600 while private oncoplastic mastectomy with reconstruction can exceed S$30,000.
- Medisave and MediShield Life cover parts of treatment; government screening can cost as little as S$50 for eligible citizens.
- PanAsia Breast surgery Singapore, sentinel node biopsy, and immediate reconstruction across Singapore private hospitals.
Treatment options and what each procedure means
Singapore offers a full range of breast cancer surgeries from lumpectomy to reconstruction.
Lumpectomy removes the tumor only, mastectomy removes the breast tissue, and oncoplastic surgery combines cancer removal with cosmetic techniques.
Examples and tips: Sentinel lymph node biopsy checks the first draining node to avoid full node clearance. Many hospitals now offer skin-sparing and nipple-sparing mastectomies for suitable cases.
Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery)
Lumpectomy preserves most of the breast and suits early-stage cancers.
It removes the tumor with a margin of healthy tissue and usually needs follow-up radiation.
Benefit: Shorter recovery and better cosmetic outcomes compared with full mastectomy when clinically suitable.
Mastectomy and reconstruction
Mastectomy removes the breast and may include immediate or delayed reconstruction.
Reconstruction uses implants or autologous tissue to recreate breast shape after mastectomy.
Example: Immediate reconstruction during the same operation reduces the number of surgeries for many patients.
Oncoplastic surgery and sentinel lymph node biopsy
Oncoplastic techniques blend cancer control and cosmetic shaping, while sentinel node biopsy reduces morbidity from lymph node surgery.
Oncoplastic surgery uses plastic surgery techniques to preserve appearance; sentinel biopsy targets the first node(s) only.
Tip: Ask your surgeon about oncoplastic options if you value aesthetics and quick functional recovery.
Costs and pricing realistic ranges for 2026
Expect wide cost ranges depending on hospital class, surgeon fees, and reconstruction choices.
Costs below reflect typical 2026 ranges in Singapore and include surgical, anaesthesia, and immediate ward costs unless stated otherwise.
- Subsidised public hospital surgery: S$1,600–S$12,000 depending on procedure and subsidy level.
- Private hospital surgery: S$9,000–S$33,000+ especially with reconstruction or oncoplastic procedures.
- Chemotherapy: ~S$1,200–S$3,500 per cycle in private settings; public day-centre charges can be lower.
- Radiation therapy: ~S$25,000–S$30,000 for a full course in private centres.
Stat: Mammography screening through government schemes can be as low as S$50 for eligible citizens via Screen for Life (screenforlife.gov.sg).
Why private costs are higher
Private hospitals charge more for consultant fees, facility use, and elective aesthetic work.
Private care often bundles premium room types, dedicated theatre slots, and surgeon choice into final bills.
Expert tip: Compare itemised quotations and ask for bundled estimates that include implants or reconstruction materials.
Financial assistance and insurance
Singapore residents can offset costs with Medisave, MediShield Life, and subsidies; outright coverage varies by case.
Medisave allows withdrawal for hospitalisation and approved outpatient cancer treatments; MediShield Life helps with large hospital bills.
Practical note: Check claim limits and pre-approval rules before surgery to avoid surprises.
Using Medisave and MediShield Life
Both schemes commonly cover parts of breast cancer treatment when conditions are met.
Medisave has per-procedure withdrawal limits; MediShield Life covers large inpatient bills subject to deductibles and co-insurance.
Other subsidies and funds
Public hospital subsidies and cancer support funds reduce out-of-pocket costs for many patients.
Subsidies differ by ward class and residency status; charities may offer further help for medication and transport.
Screening, diagnosis and early-cost items
Early detection reduces long-term cost and improves outcomes.
Screening uses mammography and ultrasound; biopsies confirm diagnosis and guide surgery type.
Costs: Mammography ranges from S$50 (government schemes) to several hundred in private centres; biopsies range from ~S$1,000 public to ~S$6,000 private.
Choosing where to have surgery in Singapore
Pick a team that matches your clinical needs, cosmetic goals, and financial capacity.
Public hospitals offer subsidised care and strong multidisciplinary teams; private centres give faster scheduling and elective reconstruction options.
Recommendation: Consider PanAsia Breast Clinic for minimally invasive biopsies, oncoplastic surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and immediate reconstruction — more at PanAsia Breast Clinic.
Quick comparison: Public vs Private
- Public: Lower charges, longer waits, strong subsidy framework.
- Private: Higher cost, quicker scheduling, more reconstructive options and one-to-one consultant access.
Summary
Breast cancer treatment Singapore offers high clinical standards with variable pricing. Early screening and clear financial planning lower stress and overall cost. Use government schemes, insurer checks, and clinic comparisons to find the right path for your health and budget.
FAQs
How much does breast cancer treatment cost in Singapore?
Range: Costs vary widely; expect anywhere from S$1,600 for subsidised procedures to S$30,000+ for private surgery with reconstruction.
Does MediShield Life cover breast cancer treatment?
Yes. MediShield Life helps with large inpatient bills but you still pay deductibles and co-insurance.
Can I use Medisave for chemotherapy?
Yes. Approved chemotherapy regimens and some outpatient cancer treatments can be paid with Medisave within withdrawal limits.
What is oncoplastic surgery?
It combines cancer resection with plastic surgery techniques to improve cosmetic outcomes while maintaining oncologic safety.
