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. Article originally published in Women Entrepreneurs Review.

No one wants to hear the words “You have cancer”. Beyond tests and treatments, what actually matters to patients navigating the cancer journey? 1) Support from Doctors, Family and Friends Cancer is not a journey to be walked alone. Studies show that support from family, friends, neighbours and health providers reduces the stress from breast cancer diagnosis and treatments[1]. When faced with a diagnosis, it is normal for patients to be overwhelmed. Uncertainty, well-meaning advice from loved ones and too much information from different sources makes the reality daunting[2]. In the face of confusion, detailed explanations and outline of next steps by doctors provide clarity which can help patients feel more in control[2]. Emotional support from loved ones could mean listening, being sensitive to how the patient feels, learning about their cancer and recognising that everyone’s journey is different[3]. Practical help can make a world of difference, to allow patients to focus on treatments and get the rest they need. Here are some ways to help[3]: Preparing meals that can be easily frozen and reheated Driving patients to and from medical appointments Picking up medicine or groceries Helping with cleaning, laundry, or pet care Peer support from fellow cancer patients can offer a sense of catharsis[4]. By joining support groups, patients can share their difficulties and express their feelings freely amongst those going through similar experiences[4]. Club Solis is a supportive community for Solis patients to connect, share real stories and heal together. 2) Being Respected and Treated Like a Human Cancer can change how patients see themselves, and physical changes from treatments can impact their self-image[5]. Ultimately, patients want doctors (and those around them) to treat them as individuals—to be valued and understood beyond just their diagnosis[6]. This can include being given assurances, having their feelings and opinions respected, and having their unique needs recognised. Reminding patients that they are more than just their illness helps preserve their sense of dignity[6][7]. The cancer journey encompasses more than just receiving treatment; it impacts all aspects of a patient’s life. A personalised approach that considers patient preferences can make them feel seen and heard, instead of just another number[6][7]. Solis actively partners with dietitians, psychologists, physiotherapists and organisations such as Can-Care Asia to offer bespoke care and post-care that acknowledges every stage of the patient journey. Patients can approach any of Solis’ clinics for more information. 3) Timely Care with Shorter Waits Waiting for test results or treatments is often physically, mentally and emotionally draining. The longer the wait, the more one’s thoughts can spiral[8]. Research shows that patients worry about waiting times throughout their cancer journey, from pre-diagnosis to treatment[9]. This shows how crucial wait times are for their overall care experience. Cancer patients want to know how long it will take to get test results, when they can expect them and what those results mean[10]. Having this information reduces anxiety by allowing patients to have a clearer idea of what to expect next. The Light of Integrated Care Dealing with cancer is in itself tough. Long wait times, fragmented care and unmet needs can make the journey even harder. Integrated healthcare brings different services together, so patients receive smoother and more coordinated care[11]. Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre offers an integrated hub for breast care needs, offering surgery, imaging and testing under one roof. In partnership with Luma Women’s Imaging Centre, women can take next steps seamlessly without travelling far, as diagnostic testing is located near to consultation rooms. This setup makes it easier for women to have screenings and see a doctor on the same day, easing the anxiety that comes with waiting. The Day Surgery Operating Theatre (DSOT) allows patients to come in for scans and surgeries and go home within a day. If required, an on-site pathologist can assess surgical specimens in real time during procedures. This means patients can receive streamlined care without needing a second surgery. With an all-female surgical team, Solis offers holistic breast care that prioritises patient worries and emotional well-being. With breast cancer treatment, it is natural to worry about your body, and concerns about fertility or sexuality can complicate treatment decisions. Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, oncoplastic surgery enables women to preserve the majority of their breast tissue while maintaining its natural shape and size. Your breast health is essential. Under the personalised and holistic care at Solis, you can be rest assured that your voice will be heard and that you are in the good hands of a multidisciplinary team. If you have concerns about your screening results, schedule an appointment for a second opinion and to discuss the next steps. References [1] Breast Cancer: Exploring the Facts and Holistic Needs during and beyond Treatment [2] The Impact of Patient-Centred Care on Cancer Patients’ QOC, Self-Efficacy, and Trust Towards Doctors: Analysis of a National Survey [3] Canadian Cancer Society, 5 ways to support a friend with cancer [4] The Effectiveness of Psychoeducational Support Groups for Women With Breast Cancer and Their Caregivers: A Mixed Methods Study [5] National Cancer Institute, How Cancer Affects Your Self-Image and Sexuality [6] The Supportive Care Needs of Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review [7] Experiences of interaction between people with cancer and their healthcare professionals: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies [8] Cancer Society New Zealand, Coping with waiting [9] Cancer patients’ concerns regarding access to cancer care: perceived impact of waiting times along the diagnosis and treatment journey [10] What information do cancer patients want and how well are their needs being met?  [11] Understanding Integrated Care