Leaders

Dr. Chan Ching Wan: A leading expert in oncoplastic breast surgery & surgical innovation

Dr Chan Ching Wan
Senior Consultant & Breast Surgeon, Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre
Singapore

The field of surgery is traditionally dominated by men; however more and more women are entering the arena as they bring additional insights and perspectives for their patients, especially in the field of breast cancer. Dr. Chan Ching Wan, Senior Consultant & Breast Surgeon at Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre, has a deep understanding of breast cancer formation, inhibition, and treatment. With a distinguished career that includes leadership roles in Singapore's National University Health System and the National Cancer Institute Singapore, Dr. Chan combines her expertise in cancer research and surgical innovation with a commitment to medical education and patient care. Her extensive training and academic contributions have solidified her reputation as a leading figure in breast cancer treatment and research.

In an exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneur Review, Dr. Chan Ching Wan enlightened us about her professional journey and her leadership traits.

Can you share your educational journey and what motivated you to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically as an oncoplastic surgeon?

My educational path was deeply influenced by my father, a surgeon, who first inspired me to pursue medicine. He took me to the operating theater at a young age, hoping it might deter me, but instead, it solidified my passion for surgery. Initially, I focused on general surgery, but my interest in breast cancer started during my PhD training, leading me towards oncoplastic surgery. At that time, breast surgery was primarily limited to lumpectomies and mastectomies, with little emphasis on aesthetic outcomes. It wasn't until I met a pioneering breast surgeon in the UK that I was introduced to oncoplastic surgery. Under his mentorship at the Nottingham Breast Institute, I learned how to integrate cancer treatment with cosmetic reconstruction. This approach transformed my perspective, making each surgery a unique challenge to preserve both the patient's health and the natural appearance of the breast. Today, oncoplastic surgery continues to evolve, offering innovative techniques for more personalized and effective treatments.

What have been some of the most crucial moments in your professional journey so far?

A pivotal moment in my career was discovering my passion for caring for breast cancer patients. While it may seem unusual to find joy in treating cancer, my fulfillment from surgery and patient care affirmed my commitment to this field. It's the small, meaningful experiences along the way that solidified my decision to dedicate my career to oncoplastic surgery.

A pivotal moment in my career was discovering my passion for caring for breast cancer patients

Can you introduce us to Solis Breast Care and explain the concept behind it and its key areas of expertise?

Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre, in partnership with Luma Women’s Imaging Centre, brings together a multidisciplinary team of breast surgeons, breast sub-specialised radiologists and pathologist – essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Our imaging facility, staffed by breast sub-specialised radiographers and sonographers offer ultrasound, mammograms, and MRI scans. With the convenience of an in-house Day Surgery Operating Theatre, we streamline the process of breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, ensuring timely and compassionate care for all our patients

Share the key areas of expertise you've developed as an oncoplastic surgeon. What are your main focus areas when working with patients?

As an oncoplastic surgeon, my expertise lies in performing oncologic surgeries that remove cancer completely while using plastic surgery techniques to reshape or reconstruct the breast, preserving its natural appearance as much as possible. My primary focus with patients is ensuring they fully understand their condition and the necessary steps in their treatment. While the internet provides vast information, it can be overwhelming and misleading. My role is to clarify what is relevant to their case, guiding them through each step of the process. Patient understanding is crucial because it directly impacts their compliance with treatment, which is essential for successful outcomes. I even encourage second opinions if it helps the patient better understand and feel confident in their care.

Highlight the most significant professional milestones in your career. What has been your success mantra over the years?

I'm relatively new to the private healthcare sector, having transitioned into my current role just over two years ago. Before this, I spent many years at the University Hospital, where, apart from clinical work, I was involved with teaching medical students, postgraduate training, and conducting research. I continue to contribute to academia by participating in undergraduate assessments and postgraduate exams, ensuring high standards in surgical education. I was also active on Singapore's national breast screening steering committee, helping to maintain and update screening protocols. My success mantra has always been to know what you want, enjoy what you do, and pursue it with dedication.

Dr. Chan Ching Wan, Senior Consultant & Breast Surgeon, Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre

Dr. Chan Ching Wan is a distinguished Senior Consultant and Assistant Professor specializing in breast oncology. Since 2009, she has served as an Assistant Professor at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS. Before joining Solis, Dr. Chan led breast services at Singapore's National University Health System and spearheaded the Breast Oncology Tumour Programme at the National Cancer Institute Singapore. She holds a medical degree from the University of Edinburgh and completed advanced surgical training at Singapore General Hospital. A Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, she also earned a PhD in Neuroendocrinology from the University of Bristol.

A business leader you admire: Steve Jobs
Advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs/business leaders: Find your passion: something that energizes you to leap out of bed and embrace your work. Surround yourself with colleagues who inspire and challenge you, even those who disagree with you, as they often provide the best insights and opportunities for growth.