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Thomson Specialists

Thomson Medical offers convenient access to comprehensive specialist outpatient and surgical care for women, children, and families through Thomson Specialists. Our team is dedicated to addressing your unique needs and providing tailored treatment options. Take control of your health today by booking an appointment at any of our Thomson Specialists clinics and embark on a journey towards improved well-being.

Bringing Comprehensive Specialist Care Closer To You

Thomson Women's Clinic

At Thomson Women’s Clinics, we are committed to providing modern and comprehensive care for women of all ages. Our experienced team of O&amp;G specialists is dedicated to creating a caring environment where your health and well-being are our top priorities. Our specialists provide specialised services on preventive measures, accurate diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans.Whether you need specialised care for women-related conditions or navigating the journey of childbirth, seeking support for family planning and fertility treatments, or requiring compassionate care through menopause, we are here for you.

Our Expertise

Specialists in Women’s Health

We understand that managing your health appointments around work and family commitments can be challenging. For your convenience, we provides women's health consultations beyond standard hours at multiple locations across Singapore.Extended Hours LocationsWhile all 12 of our women's health clinics operate during standard clinic hours, the following locations offer extended consultation times:Northeast<ul><li>Woodleigh: Thursday, 6pm - 9pm</li><li>Sengkang: Tuesday &amp; Friday, 4:30pm - 7:30pm</li><li>Punggol: Tuesday, Thursday &amp; Friday, 12pm - 8pm</li></ul>East<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Tampines: Monday, 7pm - 9pm</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Katong: Wednesday, 10am - 8pm</li></ul>West<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Jurong: Monday &amp; Thursday, 6pm - 9pm</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Bukit Batok: Monday, Thursday &amp; Friday, 6pm - 8:30pm</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Choa Chu Kang: Monday, 6pm - 8pm</li></ul>Thomson Medical is committed to providing accessible healthcare that fits your schedule.

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Thomson Women’s Clinic

Thomson Paediatric Centre

At Thomson Paediatric Centres, our unwavering commitment is to treat your child with the same level of care and dedication as we would our own. We provide children's healthcare services to alleviate every parent's concerns and ensure the well-being of our next generation. Our experienced team of Paediatricians is devoted to cultivating a caring environment where your child's health is our top priority.Besides General Paediatrics services, we also offer specialised services in Neonatology and Paediatric Cardiology. Our specialist doctors are experienced in areas such as Nutrition, Respiratory, Growth &amp; Development assessment, and Paediatric Urgent Care for babies to young children and adolescents. Trust us to be your partner in safeguarding your child's health and ensuring a compassionate and comprehensive approach to their medical needs.

Specialists in Children’s Health

Our Paediatricians

Please click on the below links for our Paediatricians' availabilities.
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 <td>Clinic Location</td>
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 <td>Dr Ang Ai Tin</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/XcyrrQBgEW35Rw3f6" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (TPC 1)</a></td>
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 <td>Dr Eugene Han</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/odint8UJmba6RBPbA" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (TPC 4)</a></td>
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 <td>Dr Grace Lim</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/obLpwmEFumMjMzRz8" target="_blank">Thomson Specialists (Woodleigh)</a> </td>
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 <td>Dr Kenneth Chua Yong Yeow</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kp3TYWxzLXkfkkPYA" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (Punggol)</a></td>
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 <td>Dr Leo Deng Jin</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/NVzfb9zvkUMvvNxN8" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (Bukit Panjang)</a></td>
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 <td>Dr Lim Yang Chern</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/7Ex6ra4NmwHQUopS6" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (Jurong)</a></td>
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 <td>Dr Ong Ian</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/78WJoj482r35Af7T9" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (Parkway Parade)</a></td>
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 <td>Dr Tan Kuanyang</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/odint8UJmba6RBPbA" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (TPC 4)</a></td>
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 <td>Dr Yang Linqi</td>
 <td><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/XcyrrQBgEW35Rw3f6" target="_blank">Thomson Paediatric Centre (TPC 1)</a></td>
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Refer to each paediatrician's <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/centres/paediatric-centre/paediatricians-consultation-hours">consultation hours</a> for their availability.

Our Paediatricians' Leave Schedule

General Information

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Investor Relations

Latest share price, financial performance, and other materials relevant to investors.Read about our <a href="https://assets.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blt5f400315f9e4f0b3/blt5a13f1dd33c615fa/651e7a9aecf48b6d54c38b23/TMG-Investor-Relations-Policy-3Sep2020.pdf?branch=uat_release_3" target="_self">Investor Relations Policy</a>For Investor Relations matters, please email us at <a href="mailto:ir@thomsonmedical.com">ir@thomsonmedical.com</a> Thomson Medical Group Limited 101 Thomson Road #20-04/05, United Square Singapore 307591 Tel: +65 6331 0188 Fax: +65 6331 0180

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<table><tbody><tr><td>Stock symbol</td><td>A50.SI</td></tr><tr><td>Listing</td><td>Singapore Exchange </td></tr><tr><td>Financial Year End</td><td>June 30</td></tr><tr><td>Total issued shares as at 30 June 2023</td><td>26,441,066,807 ordinary shares</td></tr><tr><td>Market capitalisation as at 30 June 2023</td><td>S$1.6 billion</td></tr></tbody></table>

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Learn More About TS (TMC)

We've expanded our services to better serve you.The former Thomson Specialist Outpatient Clinic is now Thomson Specialists (TMC), offering you even more comprehensive care. Whilst continuing to provide the outpatient services you've come to trust, we've expanded and renovated our facilities to include modern consultation rooms and fully-equipped surgical suites.

Expanded services, same trusted care

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The Specialist Outpatient Clinic (SOC) takes care of more than 10 medical disciplines to meet your healthcare needs.&nbsp;<ul><li>Breast Surgery&nbsp;</li><li>Dermatology&nbsp;</li><li>Diet &amp; Nutrition&nbsp;</li><li>Endocrinology&nbsp;</li><li>Healthy Ageing Programme&nbsp;</li><li>Infectious Diseases&nbsp;</li><li>Neurology&nbsp;</li><li>Obstetrics &amp; Gynaecology&nbsp;</li><li>Orthopaedics&nbsp;</li><li>Paediatric Surgery&nbsp;</li><li>Respiratory Medicine &amp; Critical Care&nbsp;</li><li>Sports Medicine&nbsp;</li><li>Urology&nbsp;</li></ul>Please note that consultation at SOC is strictly by appointment only.&nbsp;

Specialist Outpatient Clinic

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Comprehensive suite of specialist disciplines to meet your healthcare needs

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Dr Adrian Benedict Woodworth is an established consultant physician with over 20 years of experience in Obstetrics &amp; Gynaecology. He practices at <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/centres/women-clinic" target="_self">Thomson Women’s Clinic</a> in Choa Chu Kang, Punggol, and Sengkang, as well as Thomson Medical Centre.A medical graduate from the National University of Singapore, Dr Woodworth underwent speciality training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the KK Women's Hospital and obtained his post-graduate degrees from Australia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.He is an accredited Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with the Specialist Accreditation Board, Ministry of Health in Singapore, and is a member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (UK) as well as the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.He has vast experience in providing antenatal care to expectant mothers and managing maternal complications during pregnancy and childbirth. He is also well-versed in gynaecological surgery with a special interest in laparoscopic surgery for cysts and fibroids.His main focus is to provide the best possible solutions and outcomes tailored specifically to patients' medical and social needs with high regard for individualised and holistic patient care.

Dr Adrian Woodworth

Dr Akash Verma is a lung specialist with a sub-specialty interest in Intensive Care Medicine, Interventional Pulmonology and lung cancer.Prior to joining Thomson Medical Centre, Dr Akash was a senior consultant in Respiratory medicine at Tan Tock Seng Hospital and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine. After graduation, he trained at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, before obtaining his membership of Royal College of Physicians (United Kingdom). Upon completion of advanced training in Respiratory Medicine and Critical Care, He was conferred a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (FAMS). Subsequently he was awarded the Health Manpower Development Program (HMDP) fellowship and was a visiting fellow in the Department of Interventional Pulmonology at Samsung Medical Centre-Seoul, Mayo Clinic-USA, and the University of Chicago. He pioneered the establishment of the service of "navigation bronchoscopy" in Singapore in 2018 as a part of improving the quality of the journey of the lung cancer patients in the healthcare system. In addition to common respiratory conditions like asthma &amp; COPD, He is trained in advanced bronchoscopy techniques of laser resection of lung tumors, silicone stent placement in the airways, pleuroscopy, EBUS-TBNA, and navigation bronchoscopy.He has authored over 40 peer-reviewed scientific papers to date. He continues to have active interest in publishing and teaching and has taught in several international conferences and courses as an invited speaker both in South East Asia (Seoul 2013, Singapore 2015, Japan 2016, Indonesia 2017-2019, and Malaysia 2019) and Europe (Italy 2016).Dr Akash is accredited to perform surgical procedures at Thomson Medical Centre.

Dr Akash Verma

Dr Chen Min Qi is a fellowship-trained Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon.He graduated from the National University of Singapore (NUS) in 2005 and subsequently completed his basic and advanced training in general and vascular surgery and obtained his Surgery master's degree at NUS in 2015.Dr Chen is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and was awarded the Health Manpower Development Plan Award in 2018 to complete further subspecialty vascular training at St Mary's Hospital, London. Prior to private practice, he was the head of the vascular service at Woodlands Health and also a clinical tutor at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine. He served as an examiner at the final Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery undergraduate examinations conducted by NUS on numerous occasions and was also a recipient of the SQ Awards Service Ambassador from JurongHealth.Dr Chen Min Qi is accredited to perform surgical procedures at Thomson Medical Centre.

Dr Chen Min Qi

Dr Lawrence Ang is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/centres/women-clinic" target="_self">Thomson Women's Clinic</a> (Sembawang), providing specialised care in the field of general O&amp;G.Dr Ang has over 20 years of experiences. In the year 1990, he completed and obtained his MBBS from the National University of Singapore. Subsequently, in 1996, he completed his MRCOG from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, United Kingdom. In the same year, he also completed his M Med (O&amp;G) from the National University of Singapore. Dr Ang obtained his MRACOG from the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Australia the following year.His passion is to care for women during pregnancy (antenatal care) and after birth (postnatal care). Dr Ang manages complex or high-risk pregnancies and births and can perform interventions and caesareans.Dr Ang has a special interest in laparoscopic surgery, and specialises in removing Cysts and Fibroids. He is open to any new modalities of treatment and is prepared to tailor the treatment to suit your needs and condition to achieve the optimal outcome for you and your family. He strongly believes in holistic care for the patient and her immediate family and regards the latter as an integral part of the patient-doctor relationship.

Dr Lawrence Ang

Dr Kee Wei Heong

Dr Kevin Tan is a diabetologist and endocrinologist at Thomson Medical.Dr Tan graduated from the National University of Singapore in 1987 and is a fellow with both the Royal College of Physicians in Edinburgh and the Academy of Medicine in Singapore. He was trained locally at Singapore General, Alexandra, and Tan Tock Seng Hospitals; as well as overseas at the Royal Victoria Infirmary and Freeman Hospital in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK, under world-renowned diabetes expert Professor George Alberti as well as thyroidologist, Pat-Kendall Taylor.Dr Tan is the current Vice-President of Diabetes Singapore. He was immediate Past-President of Diabetes Singapore and is also a member of the Endocrine and Metabolic Society of Singapore and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. In Diabetes Singapore, he has been organising events for World Diabetes Day Singapore from 1998 to 2019. Dr Tan was co-chairman of the organising committee for the 10th International Diabetes Federation-Western Pacific Region and the 6th Asian Association for the Study of Diabetes Conference held in Singapore in November 2014.Dr Tan is a keen diabetes educator and active on the lecture circuit to both professional and public audiences locally and in the region, lecturing extensively on diabetes, thyroid problems and other endocrine/hormone issues. He has given over 350 lectures over the years. His interest is in diabetes and pituitary-adrenal disorders and his research interest is in clinical trials on diabetes.Dr Tan is accredited to perform surgical procedures at Thomson Medical Centre.

Dr Kevin Tan Eng Kiat

Dr Lam Kai Yet obtained his medical and postgraduate qualifications from the National University of Singapore and the Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in UK. He went on to complete a Patellofemoral and Sports Surgery Fellowship at the Hopital de la Croix-Rousse in France, and a Paediatric Orthopaedics Fellowship at the Great Ormond Street Hospital in London.Prior to starting Bone Island Children's Clinic, Dr Lam served as the deputy head of department and senior consultant in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH). At KKH, he furthered his paediatric specialisation by obtaining the Diploma of Children's Orthopaedics from the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society. Dr Lam helped set up the Limb Lengthening and Deformity Clinic in 2018. He also established the use of 3D printing in deformity correction in this region and was awarded the prestigious Asia Pacific Paediatric Orthopaedics Travelling Fellowship in 2019 for his work.Dr Lam's continued passion in education has seen him organise multiple regional educational events, such as the first ASEAN Deformity Workshop and KKH Paediatric Orthopaedic Trauma symposiums. For his dedication to teaching, Dr Lam was awarded the Outstanding Faculty Award in 2018/2019 by SingHealth Residency.Dr Lam regularly finds time to care for the underprivileged in Singapore and other regional countries. He is also a committee member of the Singapore Orthopaedic Association Humanitarian and Outreach Subcommittee. He is recognised for his expertise in this subspeciality field, and is often invited to present at international and regional conferences.Philosophy of CareDr Lam is dedicated to bringing a new level of expertise and care to the emerging field of Paediatrics Orthopaedics in Singapore. He has amassed experience in this specialised field, through his practice in KKH, as well as overseas fellowships, specialised trainings, and conferences. He believes that care should be tailored to one's individual and unique needs.Professional Appointments &amp; Memberships<ul><li>Adjunct Assistant Professor, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine</li><li>Adjunct Assistant Professor, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University – Imperial College</li><li>Humanitarian and Outreach Subcommittee, Singapore Orthopaedic Association</li><li>Reviewer, Singapore Medical Journal, since 2017</li><li>Reviewer, Proceedings of Singapore Healthcare, since 2016</li><li>Member, Singapore Medical Association</li><li>Member, Asia Pacific Orthopaedic Association, since 2015</li><li>Member, Asia Pacific Paediatric Orthopaedic Society, since 2015</li><li>Member, Paediatric Research in Sports Medicine Society, since 2015</li><li>Member, European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society, since 2017</li></ul>

Dr Lam Kai Yet

Dr Lee Chee Wan is an Obstetrician &amp; Gynaecologist practising at C W Lee Clinic for Women &amp; Surgery, in Chinatown, and a Visiting Consultant at <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/thomson-specialists/tmc" target="_blank">Thomson Specialists (TMC)</a>. With over 20 years of experience, Dr Lee provides comprehensive <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/speciality/obstetrics-gynaecology" target="_blank">obstetric and gynaecological services</a>, for women across all life stages.Dr Lee graduated with MBBS (University of Singapore) in 1973 and worked and trained at KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore from 1974 to 1984 before setting up private practice from 1985 to present. He is a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine Singapore in 1982 and has worked with numerous prominent specialists in Toa Payoh Hospital, KK Women's and Children's Hospital and Alexandra Hospital. Dr Lee is accredited to perform surgical procedures at Thomson Medical Centre.

Dr Lee Chee Wan (O&G)

Dr Tan Sok Chuen is an Orthopaedic Surgery Specialist at Hip &amp; Knee Orthopaedics, and a Visiting Consultant at Thomson Surgical Centre.Dr Tan's subspeciality is in hip and knee surgery, including joint replacement and revision surgeries. She also focuses on minimally invasive joint replacement surgery and osteoporosis treatment.Dr Tan graduated from the National University of Singapore in 2004. She completed her Orthopaedic Seamless Training programme across all tertiary institutions in Singapore (SGH and NUH) and was conferred the Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery. She completed clinical fellowships in Hip &amp; Knee Surgery at Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Oxford, UK in 2016, and London Health Sciences Centre, Ontario, Canada in 2015. The Nuffield Centre is renowned for partial knee replacements, and the London Health Sciences Centre is one of the most famous joint revision centres in North America, thus giving her wide exposure to joint replacement surgeries.Before joining The Orthopaedic Centre, Dr Tan was a Consultant in Orthopaedic Surgery at Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, where she was one of the highest volume surgeons.Dr Tan is an Adjunct Assistant Professor involved in medical undergraduate teaching. She has published extensively on hip and knee arthroplasty and has presented at numerous scientific meetings. Her publications on trunnionosis in hip replacements are frequently quoted in indexed journals.Dr Tan is the first woman hip and knee replacement surgeon in Singapore. Being also a mother of an active toddler, she understands the demands of the modern working mother and the need for mobility and minimum down-time. She believes that all women should be able to age gracefully and have quality of life even in old age. Thus her interest in minimally-invasive joint replacement surgery and osteoporosis treatment.Dr Tan is accredited to perform surgical procedures at Thomson Medical Centre and Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital.

Dr Tan Sok Chuen

Dr Tan Toh Lick is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/centres/women-clinic" target="_self">Thomson Women's Clinic</a> (Jurong).Dr Tan graduated from King's College School of Medicine and Dentistry, the University of London in 1997. He undertook his Obstetrics and Gynaecology Specialist Training in London, Kent, Surrey, and Sussex Deanery, and has worked with numerous prominent specialists in King's College Hospital, St George's Hospital, Kent &amp; Canterbury Hospital, University Hospital Lewisham, Princess Royal University Hospital, and Guy's &amp; St Thomas' Hospital.He completed his specialist training in 2008 and was appointed Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Ealing Hospital NHS Trust, London in 2008. Before relocating to KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore in 2013, he also consulted at private London hospitals including Clementine Churchill Hospital, Lister Hospital, and Portland Hospital.As a consultant, he held a number of lead roles and brought about significant improvements in service development, patient care, and staff training. These contributions were widely recognised and he has been awarded 3 Clinical Excellence Awards in 2010 and 2012 in the United Kingdom, and Singapore Health Quality Service Award in 2015, Singapore.Dr Tan has also won many awards and prizes for his academic work presented at international and regional conferences. He has participated in several research and audits in early pregnancy loss, preterm delivery, labour induction, and menstrual disorders. He has also published and reviewed in several peer-reviewed medical journals.Dr Tan is on the United Kingdom's General Medical Council's and Singapore Medical Council's specialist registers. He is a member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and has RCOG special skills accreditation in minimally invasive surgery, gynaecological ultrasound, and subfertility management.

Dr Tan Toh Lick

Dr Teoh obtained her Masters in Sports Medicine (Honours) from the United States of America in 1994, becoming Singapore’s first female sports and exercise medicine specialist. She is also a qualified acupuncturist. In her daily clinical practice, Dr Teoh cares for competitive and recreational athletes as well as people who simply enjoy exercising and keeping active. Indelibly impacted by her 19 days at the London 2012 Paralympics, her energies now extend to promoting sports and physical activity for the physically impaired and older persons, in addition to serving children and youth. For 30 years, Dr Teoh has been the attending team physician to Singapore’s elite athletes at major games. She was appointed Chief Medical Officer for Team Singapore to numerous games including the SEA, ASEAN Para, Commonwealth, Asian, Youth Olympic, Olympic and Paralympic Games. Between 2014 and 2018, she also led the medical support team for Singapore Schools to the annual ASEAN Schools Games. Dr Teoh is current Chair of the Therapeutic Use Exemption Committees of Anti-Doping Singapore, Women in Sport Committee of the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC), and Advisory Committee of the School of Sports, Health and Leisure of Republic Polytechnic (RP); Member of the RP Board of Governors and Medical Commission of SNOC; Director to the Board of the Singapore Sports School and Singapore Bowling Pte Ltd; Medical Advisor to Basketball Association of Singapore; and Past President of Sports Medicine Association of Singapore. In the international arena, Dr Teoh was former Secretary of the Medical Committee of the International Hockey Federation. She has contributed significantly as a Member of the Anti-Doping Committee of the International Paralympic Committee and TUE Expert Advisory Group of the World Anti-Doping Agency, working behind the scenes at both the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games. As a member of the Anti-Doping and Medical Commission of the Commonwealth Games Federation, she was actively involved in the 2022 Commonwealth Games. She was recently appointed as a member of the International Basketball Federation Medical Commission (FIBA) and served as a Supervisory Doctor at the FIBA World Cup in Manila 2023. In recognition of her long-standing service to Team Singapore, Dr Teoh was awarded the Public Service Medal at the National Day Awards 2019. In 2020, she was a winner in the Healthcare Humanity Awards for founding and leading PlayBuddy, an inclusive sports playgroup for children with varying physical abilities run entirely by volunteers. She received the National Healthcare Group (NHG) Outstanding Citizenship Award in 2022 for her contributions to NHG and taking on additional responsibilities outside her own portfolio. In 2023, PlayBuddy was awarded the Singapore Disability Sports Council Community Changemaker of the Year. Aside from her medical profession, Dr Teoh is also a certified facilitator of Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People personal leadership development solution, and finds great satisfaction in mentoring young adults. She hikes, runs and swims to keep fit and scuba dives for leisure, slowing down from her competitive days in track and field, squash and the marathon.

Dr Teoh Chin Sim PBM

Dr Verhoeven is an orthopaedic surgeon who has additional training and experience in treating foot and ankle conditions in adults.

Dr William Verhoeven

Dr Yvonne Soong

Dr David Lau is an ENT surgeon at Thomson Surgical Centre, and has over 25 years of experience in this field. He offers comprehensive treatment of ear, nose and throat disorders in adults and children. He is committed to providing the best possible care for each patient, through expertise, and compassionate and evidence-based medicine. Dr Lau is a regional key opinion leader in the field of laryngology (throat, voice and swallowing disorders), and his expertise lies in laryngeal stroboscopy for diagnosis; medical management of the occupational and performing voice (including singers); micro-laryngeal and laser surgery of the vocal folds; management of vocal fold paralysis; and use of Botulinum Toxin in the voice box.He pioneered the use of transnasal esophagoscopy in ENT practice in Singapore. His other areas of interest include diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea; thyroid and salivary gland surgery; comprehensive medical and surgical treatment of allergic rhinitis and sinusitis; and management of common paediatric (children's) ENT disorders. In 2019 he was the organising president for the first Asia Pacific Laryngology Association Conference in Singapore. Dr Lau is often invited to speak at regional conferences; and is an examiner for the ENT professional examinations in Singapore.

Dr David Lau

Thomson Specialist Outpatient Clinic

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Breast lumps during pregnancy are very common. The expectant mother will experience many normal physiological changes ― an increase in breast size, more obvious sweat glands around the nipples, a darkening of the areola ― all of which will prepare her body for breastfeeding.Common non-cancerous variations to breasts include hormonal changes (fibrocystic changes), fibroadenomas, cysts, lipomas, accessory (extra) breast tissue. Pregnancy-related breast cancers make up about 3 per cent of all breast cancers.Whenever a pregnant woman feels a lump, she should see a doctor to get their opinion, keeping in mind that most times it will turn out to be nothing serious!<h2>What the doctor will do</h2>When you see the doctor, she will ask details as to how you detected the lump, how long it has been present and if you have detected any changes, so as to get an idea what the lump is likely to be.Next, the doctor will conduct a breast examination to confirm the presence of the lump, and check for any other symptoms such as skin changes or nipple discharge.Most patients will then be recommended to get an ultrasound scan ― this will give additional information as to whether this lump is benign or cancerous. If there is any concern that the lump may be cancerous, your doctor will advise you as to the pros and cons of having a biopsy, which can be done safely even during pregnancy.“If a pregnant women detects a lump, I would advise them to have a thorough consultation and a physical examination, followed by an ultrasound. If necessary, I would then perform a biopsy.”<h2>Breast cancer screening during pregnancy</h2>A screening checks for cancer even when a patient is feeling well and has absolutely no cancer signs or symptoms. For breast cancer screening, most countries, including Singapore, recommend mammogram screening from age 50 onwards. For women who are at higher risk, this may start at 40. Some specialists will recommend a supplementary ultrasound as well.If a pregnant women detects a lump, I would advise them to have a thorough consultation and a physical examination, followed by an ultrasound. If necessary, I would then perform a biopsy.<h2>Screening methods (Mammograms/Ultrasound)</h2>Ultrasound, the same technology used to monitor the baby during pregnancy, is safe and useful in detecting lumps, and to check if it’s solid or cystic. Most specialists do not use ultrasound as a screening method as the majority of such lumps it detects are not cancerous.A diagnostic ultrasound can still be performed safely on pregnant women to assess their breast lump. If a subsequent biopsy confirms a cancer, she may then need a baseline mammogram, after discussing the pros and cons with her doctor. This is because early stage breast cancer may not form a lump yet, but may attract calcium spots, which can be detected using a mammogram. An abdominal lead apron may be used to reduce the baby’s exposure to radiation.<h2>Breast cancer treatment</h2>If the biopsy shows that the lump is non-cancerous (benign), then it may be left alone.However, if the biopsy shows that it is cancerous, the breast cancer treatment protocols will be modified for the expectant woman. Staging* has to be conducted to find out if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, but only with liver ultrasound and chest X-ray. Depending on which trimester of the pregnancy she is in, the breast surgeon, oncologist and the ob-gyn will discuss what is best for the patient and her baby.Chemotherapy may be administered from the second trimester onwards, followed by surgery after she deliver the baby. As such management of the patient’s treatment is complex, it will involve good multidisciplinary care by experienced doctors.*Staging is a way to describe where the cancer is located, how much the cancer has grown, and if or where it has spread.

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Although common breast changes are normal in pregnancy, finding a lump can be worrying. Learn what are the recommended next steps, and when you should worry.

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Breast Lumps During Pregnancy: What to Expect and Do

“It all started with a persistent pain in the left breast, and I was referred by my General Practitioner for a mammogram and ultrasound. Both the mammogram and ultrasound results showed an abnormal lump, and I was further scheduled for a breast biopsy to determine if the lump was benign or malignant. Questions started to fill my mind. What is breast biopsy and how is it performed? And is it painful?”For many patients, pain is a very common symptom and is the most common complaint that brings them to see a doctor. For a small group, there happens to be an abnormal lump found that needs a biopsy. Most times, pain is not a sign of cancer, and any lumps found may not be the cause of the breast pain you experienced.Some of us may face a similar situation when a lump is detected. It is normal to have many questions. This article aims to address some of your preliminary questions while you arrange for a consult with a professional specialist. It is important to seek timely professional diagnosis and treatment.Here’s what you need to know about a breast biopsy and what to expect.<h2>What is a breast biopsy?</h2>A breast biopsy is a process where a small sample of breast tissue is removed through a special biopsy needle. The tissue samples removed from the breast lump will be further examined under a microscope. Typically, the breast biopsy is performed if there is an abnormality detected from your previous mammograms or breast ultrasounds. The goal of the biopsy is to determine what the abnormality is and the best treatment to move forward with.Although ultrasounds and mammograms are useful ways to identify breast lumps, a breast biopsy is the only way to confirm what the lump is. Breast screening is to be done, even if you are well and have no symptoms at all, and annual mammograms should start from age 40.If you experience any symptoms, please see a doctor for early diagnostic imaging tests:<ul><li>Breast lump</li><li>Changes in the colour or contour of the breast or nipple or dimpling of skin</li><li>Discharge from the nipple</li></ul>Most breast biopsies are quick and painless. Many of the breast lumps may turn out to be benign as there are a variety of conditions that can cause lumps in the breast. However, your doctor will usually want to take precautions and order breast screening tests to rule out early <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/blog/breast-cancer" target="_blank">breast cancer</a>.<h2>How to prepare for a breast biopsy?</h2>Before your breast biopsy, you can prepare by informing your breast surgeon if you:<ul><li>Have any allergies</li><li>Are taking any blood-thinning medications</li><li>Have consumed aspirin in the last seven days</li><li>Not able to lie face down for more than an hour</li></ul>You will likely meet with your specialist prior to the procedure. Your doctor would be able to advise you on the procedure and give you advice such as:<ul><li>What type of breast biopsy procedure will be done?</li><li>What is the location of my biopsy?</li><li>Will a part or all of the lump be extracted?</li><li>Will it leave a scar?</li><li>How soon will I receive my results?</li><li>How soon can I resume normal activities?</li><li>What type of anaesthesia will be used?</li></ul>Make sure to wear a sports bra and loose clothing to have ease in dressing after the procedure. You may also want to have a designated driver or someone to accompany you home safely.<h2>What are the different types of breast biopsies and how are they performed?</h2>Once your breast surgeon decides that a biopsy is needed, they will determine the best type of biopsy for your situation. There are a few breast biopsy procedures to obtain samples of a patient’s breast lumps. Your breast surgeon will recommend based on the location, size, and other characteristics of the breast abnormality.Your breast surgeon will take a tissue sample either through a minimally invasive biopsy procedure or surgery. Minimally invasive procedures are ideal because they offer:<ul><li>Less pain</li><li>Less scarring</li><li>Faster recovery time</li><li>Lower risk of infection</li><li>Lower hospital costs</li><li>Able to return to usual activities quickly</li></ul><h3>Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy</h3>This procedure is performed through ultrasound guidance. An ultrasound is a method that utilises high-frequency sound waves to generate precise images.The breast surgeon will locate the lump within the patient’s breasts using the breast ultrasound device before a small incision is made for the biopsy needle to retrieve tissue samples. With an ultrasound-guided breast biopsy, the breast surgeon can identify <a href="https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/breastbius" target="_self">lumps near the chest wall or under the arms</a>.It can be used in conjunction with vacuum-assisted core biopsy, core needle biopsy, or fine needle aspiration biopsy. This ultrasound-guided breast biopsy procedure is also more cost-effective than other methods like open surgical biopsy.<h3>Stereotactic biopsy</h3><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blt5f400315f9e4f0b3/bltdc27a561fa0c5072/6545217008cc0104077ce311/Stereotactic_Biopsy.jpeg?branch=uat_release_3" height="auto"/>With a stereotactic biopsy, a 3D image of the breast is created from the mammogram results. The doctor uses the image to pinpoint the exact location of the suspected breast lump and guides the needle there. The patient will lay <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/breast-biopsy-stereotactic#procedure" target="_self">facing down on a padded biopsy table</a> with one of the breasts positioned in the hole in the table. The patient’s breast will be compressed with two plates while the biopsy site is located using a targeted mammogram. The breast surgeon or radiologist will then create a small incision into the biopsy site and insert a large core needle to remove tissue samples.<h3>RI-guided core needle biopsy</h3>Instead of using an ultrasound device, a biopsy can be performed under the guidance of an MRI. This imaging device captures cross-sectional images of the breast so that the hollow needle can be guided to the site of the breast lump. This procedure can be used with core needle biopsy, vacuum-assisted core biopsy, or wire localisation.he different types of breast biopsy vary in terms of how invasive the procedure it can be. Your breast surgeon will advise on the procedure that is the best for you.<h3>Open (surgical) biopsy</h3><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blt5f400315f9e4f0b3/blt4155c1fcecc004d3/654521990970dd001bd16e10/Open_(Surgical)_Biopsy.png?branch=uat_release_3" height="auto"/>The breast surgeon will remove part or the entire lump. If the lump is small and deep, a very thin needle and a thin wire will be placed inside the breast before the operation to help guide the breast surgeon.Generally, a surgical biopsy is performed in an operating room usually under general <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anesthesia" target="_blank">anaesthesia</a>.<h3>Fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology</h3>In this procedure, a thin needle attached to a syringe is inserted into the breast lumps. The syringe will collect the sample of fluid or cells from the lump and small tissue samples are removed. Your doctor will advise if this is suitable for you.<h3>Sentinel node biopsy</h3>This procedure removes the <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/staging/sentinel-node-biopsy-fact-sheet" target="_self">sentinel lymph node</a> or the first node to which cancer cells are most likely to spread. The surgeon uses blue dye or a radioactive tracer to identify the node. Then, the node is removed and tested for cancer. Cancer could have spread to other lymph nodes if the sentinel node tests positive. However, if it is negative, the likelihood of cancer spreading to other lymph nodes is lower.<h3>Vacuum-assisted core biopsy</h3>This procedure is performed with an ultrasound or mammogram unit and can be seen as an upgraded form of the core needle biopsy. Like the core biopsy, a larger needle is used and allows for several tissue samples to be taken at one time.A probe or hollow tube is inserted into a cut made on the skin. Then, a vacuum-assisted device is used to pull the tissue into the needle while a rotating cutting device takes the sample. Using a suction device is beneficial because it can get more cells and fluid through the needle, which cuts down on the number of times the needle will need to be inserted to retrieve multiple samples.<h2>Benefits and risks of breast biopsy</h2>Before proceeding with breast biopsy procedures, you may want to discuss with the breast surgeon and weigh the benefits and risks to determine the suitable procedure that is right for you. Fortunately, most procedures are less invasive compared to surgical biopsy and some will leave minimal to no scarring. The biopsy results will indicate whether the breast lump is malignant or benign which would either allow you to rest easy or quickly get the treatment that you need.Although these procedures are generally safe, there are some risks involved. Possible complications that can incur from a breast biopsy include:<ul><li>Mild pain and bruising</li><li>Infection</li><li>Prolonged bleeding</li><li>Soreness at the biopsy site</li></ul>Many of these side effects are simply temporary. However, if they persist, contact your <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/find-a-doctor/breast-surgeon-singapore" target="_blank">breast surgeon</a> for treatment. Generally, following the aftercare instructions will greatly reduce these risks and limit the odds of infection.<h2>FAQ</h2><h3>Why is a breast biopsy done?</h3>A breast biopsy can be done for several reasons:<ul><li>To identify any lumps in your breast</li><li>To check for the potential causes of any nipple problems such as bloody discharge</li><li>To evaluate whether the breast lump or breast mass is cancerous or non-cancerous.</li><li>To check the severity of a problem seen from the breast imaging results, such as a fluid-filled cyst or calcium deposits in breast tissue (microcalcifications)</li></ul><h3>How often are breast biopsies positive for cancer?</h3>&gt; 80% of the patients who undergo the biopsy procedure do not have cancer, while only &lt; 20% of breast biopsies are malignant. When the results are negative, the breast lump is benign.<h3>Does a breast biopsy hurt?</h3>The breast surgeon may use local anaesthesia to help numb the biopsy area during the procedure. It may be slightly uncomfortable, but most patients describe it as tolerable. Once the site is numb from the local anaesthetic, one should only feel pressure but no pain from the biopsy.Typically, only local anaesthesia is required. However, general anaesthesia may be used in severe cases, meaning the entire body is numbed.<h3>How long does it take to recover from breast biopsy?</h3>Biopsy procedures do not cause significant pain to your body. However, you may experience some bruising, tenderness, or soreness for a few days after the biopsy procedure. Patients can take non-aspirin pain relievers that contain acetaminophen and apply cold packs to help ease the pain and discomfort. However, it can take longer to recover from surgical removal procedures when compared to nonsurgical procedures.With all breast biopsy procedures, except for the surgical biopsy, you will be able to go home without a patient caregiver. You will likely have bandages and a cold pack over the biopsy site. Most patients can resume usual activities within a day after the procedure.Tell your breast surgeon if you notice the following problems after the biopsy:<ul><li>Pain that gets worse</li><li>Chills or fever</li><li>Swelling, redness, drainage, or bleeding</li></ul><h3>How soon should you expect to receive your breast biopsy results?</h3><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blt5f400315f9e4f0b3/blt3ce74f2f0f705f43/654521d254447604077cfdc6/Breast_Biopsy.jpeg?branch=uat_release_3" height="auto"/>Once the procedure is done, the breast tissue samples are sent to the lab. A pathologist will evaluate the samples using specialised tools and then create a report to send to the breast surgeon, who will share the results with you.Generally, it takes a few days before the results are ready. However, it can take as long as two weeks before the test results are available if the lab needs more time to process your specimen.Sometimes a clear diagnosis is not possible based on the sample given. In this scenario, you may need another biopsy performed so that the breast surgeon can obtain more breast tissue for further evaluation.The results will share details about the consistency and size of the breast tissue samples, the location of the biopsy site, and whether there are cancer cells present. If it is malignant, the report will detail the type of breast cancer you have. Based on the findings, your breast surgeon will advise on the next steps for treatment.<h2>Book Your Appointment at Thomson Breast Centre</h2>Prevention is always better than cure! Our clinical team at <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/breast" target="_blank">Thomson Breast Centre</a> offers different services for all <a href="https://www.thomsonmedical.com/blog/breast-screening-mammogram-ultrasound" target="_blank">breast screening</a> needs with the assurance that you will be well taken care of. It is important to detect signs of breast cancer early. The sooner it is detected, the faster the treatment can start. At Thomson Medical, our doctors will evaluate the lump and provide the appropriate tests for diagnosis.Most patients start with a specialist consultation for a personalised clinical breast assessment. We offer a wide range of biopsy procedures, from minimally invasive removal to more advanced surgical options if a biopsy is needed. Book a specialist consultation with Thomson Breast Centre and start your breast health journey today.

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Worried about a breast lump? Don't panic. A breast biopsy is a simple procedure that can help determine if the lump is benign or malignant. Learn more about the process and what to expect from this article.

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Everything You Need to Know About Breast Biopsy

Just as there are skin issues that arise during pregnancy, skin conditions can also develop after you give birth. Fortunately, they are largely treatable, so there is no need to fret – your postpartum skin and hair will bounce back in no time. We take a look at some of the most common conditions.<h2>Melasma</h2>Also known as “the mask of pregnancy”, this pigmentation condition is due to increased melanin production and is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, as well as sun exposure. It tends to affect Asian skin more, appearing as brownish patches over the cheeks, forehead, temples, nasal bridge, upper lips and jawline.It is best controlled by avoiding the sun and with regular use of sunscreen, lightening creams and topical agents, although it can persist in some cases. Other treatments include chemical peeling, intense pulsed light therapy and certain forms of laser therapy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding – certain ingredients such as tretinoin and hydroquinone that can be found in some skincare products should be avoided by breastfeeding mums.<h2>Dermatitis/eczema</h2>Eczema or dermatitis is a relatively common yet noninfectious condition, so it will not spread to your baby. Often it is an aggravation of an underlying sensitive skin condition that has been present for some time. For new mothers, it can also develop as a result of excessive water contact due to frequent handwashing.Use moisturiser regularly to soothe inflamed and itchy skin. Topical steroid creams are prescribed to calm inflamed skin and are safe to use even when breastfeeding. Use a gentle soap substitute and continue to moisturise even after the skin rash has settled.<h2>Stretchmarks</h2>Affecting at least 90 percent of pregnant women, stretchmarks are a form of scarring that appear red when fresh, but most will fade to white after delivery. During pregnancy, intensive use of moisturisers may help the condition, and there are specially formulated stretchmark creams on the market that you can continue using after delivery. For more severe cases, dermatologists may prescribe tretinoin cream to use postpartum when you are not breastfeeding. Some skin-tightening laser treatments are safe options to remove stretchmarks even if you are breastfeeding, but these usually require multiple sessions.<h2>Telogen effluvium</h2>This condition results in hair fall that usually occurs about three months after delivery. Though increased hair fall can be distressing to new mothers, it is almost always a self-limiting condition, and you will usually recover within six months. If you notice increased hair fall, consult a doctor to exclude other causes of hair loss (such as low iron levels). Topical medications can be used if you are not breastfeeding.<h2>Acne</h2>Caused by an inflammation in the facial oil glands, acne may be aggravated by hormonal changes. Most of the time, acne clears within a few weeks or months, but medical treatment should be sought to prevent the risk of scarring. There are many topical agents that can be safely used even when breastfeeding. In more severe cases, oral medications such as antibiotics may be required.

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Postpartum skin problems like melasma, acne, and stretch marks are common but temporary. Learn how to relieve and prevent the 5 most frequent postpartum skin woes.