
Dr Tan Ying Chien
MBBS, MMed (Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh)
FAMS (Plastic Surgery)

Dr Chia Hui Ling
MBBS, MMed (Surgery), MRCS (England)
FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
You may have found yourself quietly weighing the idea of breast augmentation for some time. Perhaps it is something you have considered after pregnancy, weight changes or simply as a way to feel more comfortable in your own body. While the decision itself is a very personal choice, many patients soon realise that the most important consideration comes next, selecting the right breast surgeon.
The surgeon you choose will not only perform the procedure, but also guide you through your options, explain what is realistic and support you throughout recovery. To help guide your decision, here is what to look for in a breast surgeon, the questions to ask and how to feel more confident about your decision.
A breast surgeon is trained to perform procedures that enhance, reconstruct or correct breast shape and volume. In the context of breast augmentation, their role goes beyond surgery itself. Your surgeon assesses your medical suitability, evaluates your anatomy and discusses the approaches that best align with your goals. This includes explaining the differences between implant-based augmentation and fat transfer techniques, as well as outlining what each option can realistically achieve.
An experienced breast surgeon will also guide you through preparation, recovery expectations and long-term care, ensuring you are well informed at every stage.
Choosing a breast surgeon involves more than reviewing credentials or online feedback. It is about finding a professional you trust, who listens carefully and prioritises both safety and suitability. The following considerations can help you make a more confident choice.
Before proceeding with breast augmentation, it is essential to verify that your surgeon is registered with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) and practises within Ministry of Health (MOH) regulations.
In Singapore, doctors must meet defined training and accreditation standards depending on their scope of practice. Patients can check a surgeon’s professional standing and qualifications through the SMC’s public register, which provides reassurance that national medical standards are met.
While all registered surgeons meet baseline training requirements, their areas of focus may differ. Some may concentrate primarily on reconstructive surgery, while others perform breast augmentation regularly as part of aesthetic practice.
Patients can clarify a surgeon’s experience by asking questions such as:
These questions help ensure that the surgeon’s experience aligns with your expectations and preferred approach.
A detailed consultation is one of the most important steps when planning a breast augmentation procedure. During this appointment, the surgeon typically reviews the patient’s health history, examines the chest anatomy and discusses achievable outcomes.
The consultation should cover:
Breast augmentation should be performed in an MOH-approved medical facility that meets established standards for hygiene, staffing and anaesthesia support.
Before confirming your surgeon, ask where the procedure will take place and what form of anaesthesia will be used. Knowing that your surgery will be carried out in an accredited setting provides reassurance and supports patient safety.
Aftercare and follow-up visits are integral parts of breast augmentation. Surgeons typically schedule reviews to monitor healing, manage discomfort and assess implant positioning or fat graft retention.
Patients should ensure that their chosen surgeon provides a structured follow-up plan. This includes post-operative instructions, wound care guidance and regular appointments to support recovery and long-term results.
Asking the right questions during your consultation helps clarify expectations and supports transparent communication. You may wish to ask:
These questions support clear communication, encourage transparency and help you make informed decisions based on accurate, relevant information.
Choosing a breast surgeon is not about rushing into a procedure, but about feeling supported, informed and comfortable with the process. Taking the time to understand your options and selecting a surgeon who prioritises safety and communication can make a difference to your overall experience.
At SW1 Plastic Surgery, consultations are guided by careful listening, clear explanations and personalised recommendations. If you are considering breast augmentation or would like professional guidance, contact SW1 Plastic Surgery to arrange a personalised consultation and take the next step with confidence and informed care.

Dr Tan Ying Chien is an experienced plastic surgeon since 1996, who trained in Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan, where he developed his skills in cleft, jaw, and cosmetic surgery, with a special interest in breast augmentation surgery.
His meticulous nature and passion for aesthetics led him into the field of plastic surgery, where he tailors cosmetic breast surgeries to each patient’s physique. With a patient and warm-hearted approach, Dr Tan is well respected by both his peers and patients.
Dr Tan is also a passionate volunteer who provides pro bono ear reconstructive surgery for needy patients at both KK and SGH. He is part of Operation Smile, a charitable organization that organizes medical missions to help children suffering from cleft lip and palate deformities.

Dr Chia Hui Ling is a skilled plastic surgeon who specialises in breast reconstruction, paediatric plastic surgery, and cosmetic surgery – including breast augmentation surgery. Dr Chia Hui Ling's surgical experience spans across the UK, Singapore, and South Korea, where she received prestigious fellowship awards in plastic surgery at Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH) - JW Lee Centre for Global Medicine Fellowship Award, and in the UK-AO Craniomaxillofacial Fellowship Award.
Her detailed approach and compassionate nature have earned her multiple awards including the Service from The Heart, Best Registrar and Best Medical Officer awards. She is also the co-founder of Breast Reconstruction Awareness Singapore (BRAS), a non-profit society supporting breast cancer survivors, and a volunteer plastic surgeon with Smile Asia.
Mon - Fri | : 9am-5pm |
Saturday | : 9.30am-12.30pm |
Sunday & Public Holiday | : Closed |
| Tel | : +65 6690 2471 |
| : +65 8299 7588 |