Mammogram Screening: What Age to Start and Why Timing Matters More Than You Think

Why Timing Your Breast Health Screening Around Your Menstrual Cycle Matters?

Hormonal fluctuations throughout the month affect breast tissue density and tenderness, influencing both how you feel during the procedure and the clarity of imaging. Throughout a typical 28-day menstrual cycle, levels of oestrogen and progesterone rise and fall in a predictable pattern. In the week leading up to your period, rising oestrogen causes breast ducts to dilate and fluid to accumulate in the tissue. The result? Your breasts may feel fuller, firmer and more sensitive, conditions that can both heighten discomfort under compression and produce denser images that obscure small abnormalities on a mammogram.

On the flip side, the days just after menstruation, usually between day 7 and day 14, tend to present the lowest levels of these hormones. At this point, breast tissue is at its least dense and tender, offering several advantages: mammograms and ultrasounds are easier to interpret, reducing the likelihood of repeat scans, and you’ll generally feel more at ease during the procedure. For most women, this “window of opportunity” is when breast screening delivers optimal results.

Plan Your Appointment with Precision

1. Track Your Cycle: Mark the first day of bleeding as day 1. Over a few months, note the average length to pinpoint your post-period period.
   
2. Book Early: Call your clinic to secure a slot between days 7 and 14. Many screening centres in Singapore understand this timing and may accommodate your preference if you mention it when booking.
   
3. Communicate Discomfort: Even in the ideal window, some women experience sensitivity. Let the radiographer know so they can adjust the compression pressure or use cushioning pads for added comfort.
   

Special Considerations

• Irregular Cycles: If perimenopause or hormonal treatments make your cycle unpredictable, choose any day when your breasts feel least swollen or tender.
  
• Hormonal Medications: Contraceptives or hormone-replacement therapy can alter normal patterns. Consult your doctor about the best timing based on your specific regimen.
  
• Self-Exams: Perform monthly checks a few days after your period to ensure tenderness doesn’t mask lumps, familiarising yourself with your baseline breast texture.
  

Maximise Your Screening Success

• Wear a Two-Piece Outfit: Only your top needs removal, making the process smoother and more discreet.
  
• Skip Caffeine Pre-Scan: Some find that cutting caffeine 24 hours before reduces breast sensitivity.
  
• Bring a Support Buddy: A friend or family member can offer moral support and help you note any follow-up instructions.
  

Aligning your breast health screening with your menstrual cycle may feel like a small step, but it can yield more accurate results and a more comfortable experience. By understanding how hormonal shifts influence breast density and tenderness, you empower yourself to take control of your care.

Ready to schedule your next breast screening at the optimal time? Contact Radhika Breast & General Surgery today and pick a date that works with your cycle. Because a bit of planning now leads to greater peace of mind tomorrow.

Nutrition And Exercise Tips For Post-Mastectomy Recovery

Recovering from a mastectomy is not just about healing the physical scars; it’s about regaining strength, confidence, and a sense of normalcy. For many women in Singapore, this journey involves adjusting to new routines, emotions, and physical limitations. While medical follow-ups are crucial, what you eat and how you move play a significant role in how well and how comfortably you recover.

If you or a loved one is navigating recovery after a mastectomy, these practical nutrition and exercise tips can make a real difference. Let’s look at how you can support your body from the inside out.

Nourish Your Body With Purpose

Good nutrition is essential for healing and energy during post-mastectomy recovery. After surgery, your body needs extra support to repair tissues, manage inflammation, and strengthen immunity.

Focus on a balanced diet that includes:

• Lean protein: Helps rebuild tissues. Include options like tofu, fish, eggs, and chicken.
• Whole grains: Brown rice, oats, and wholemeal bread provide long-lasting energy and fibre.
• Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil support brain and heart health.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables: Rich in antioxidants, they aid in recovery and reduce inflammation.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay energised and support metabolic function.

If you’re undergoing further treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation, you might experience changes in appetite or taste. Small, frequent meals and easily digestible foods can help. Consider consulting a dietitian experienced in post-surgical cancer care here in Singapore for a tailored meal plan.

Moving With Care

Exercise might be the last thing on your mind after surgery. But gentle, appropriate movement is key to regaining mobility and reducing stiffness, particularly in the shoulder and arm on the affected side.

Start slow and always follow your surgeon’s or physiotherapist’s advice. Some gentle options include:

• Deep breathing and soft stretching: Excellent for circulation and relaxation in the initial weeks.
• Arm and shoulder mobility exercises: Help prevent stiffness and improve range of motion.
• Walking: A simple, low-impact way to maintain cardiovascular health and boost your mood.
• Gradual resistance training: Once approved by your care team, light weights or resistance bands can help rebuild muscle strength.

It’s also important to monitor for signs of lymphedema, swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid. Avoid heavy lifting, tight clothing, and repetitive strain on the affected arm without guidance from a professional.

Listening To Your Body

Recovery is personal. While some women feel ready to return to daily activities within weeks, others may take longer, and that’s completely normal. The key is to honour your body’s signals, prioritise rest, and not rush the process. Surround yourself with supportive professionals and loved ones who understand your journey.

You’re Not Alone

In Singapore, clinics like Radhika Breast & General Surgery offer comprehensive post-mastectomy care, combining medical support with lifestyle guidance. From post-op check-ups to tailored rehabilitation plans, you don’t have to navigate this path alone.

Taking the first steps towards healing? Speak to your doctor or physiotherapist about a recovery plan that includes nutrition and exercise. Supporting your body today can make all the difference for tomorrow.

Breast Reconstruction Later in Life: Recovery, Expectations, and What Feels Right for You

Choosing to undergo breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a deeply personal decision, one that doesn’t have an expiry date. Whether you’re in your 50s, 60s, or beyond, you may be wondering if it’s too late to consider reconstruction, or what recovery might look like at this stage of life.

The truth is, there’s no “right” age for breast reconstruction. What matters most is your comfort, health goals, and what feels right for you. If you’re considering this option later in life, here’s what to know about recovery, expectations, and how to make a decision that supports your overall well-being.

It’s Not Just About Age, It’s About You

Age alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Instead, doctors look at your overall health, lifestyle, and any ongoing treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or medication for other conditions. If you’re in generally good health and the idea of reconstruction brings you peace of mind or helps you feel more like yourself, then it’s worth exploring.

Some women choose reconstruction immediately after mastectomy, while others wait months, or even years. This delay is completely valid and can give you time to process, heal, and decide on your terms.

Understanding Your Options

There are a few types of reconstruction, and the choice may depend on your body, your medical history, and your preferences:

• Implant-based reconstruction: A less invasive option that uses saline or silicone implants to recreate the breast shape.
  
• Autologous (flap) reconstruction: Uses tissue from another part of your body (like the abdomen or back) to rebuild the breast.

Your doctor will help you weigh the pros and cons of each based on how your body might respond to surgery and recovery.

What Recovery Might Look Like Later in Life

Recovery after breast reconstruction varies from person to person, but here are some things to keep in mind as you consider surgery later in life:

• Healing may take longer than it would in your 30s or 40s, especially if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
  
• You might feel tired for several weeks, particularly if you’ve chosen a flap procedure, which involves a longer operation.
  
• Pain is usually manageable with medication and tends to ease within the first few weeks.
  
• You’ll likely need to limit physical activity for a few weeks, no heavy lifting or stretching until cleared by your doctor.
  
• Regular follow-up visits will help ensure everything is healing as expected.
  

Most women return to their regular routines within 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the type of reconstruction and the pace of recovery.

Emotional Support Matters, Too

Breast reconstruction isn’t just a physical journey, it can bring up a lot of emotions, especially if you’ve been living without a breast for some time. Many women describe a sense of closure or feeling “whole” again after surgery, while others feel just as confident without reconstruction.

Whatever your experience, know that it’s okay to have mixed feelings. Talking to a counsellor, support group, or even other women who’ve had the surgery can help you feel less alone and more prepared.

Making the Decision That Feels Right for You

Ask yourself:

• What’s motivating me to consider reconstruction now?
• Do I feel like I need to do this, or do I genuinely want to?
• How important is the physical change to my sense of self or body image?
• Am I prepared for the recovery, or do I have support in place?

There’s no wrong answer, only what aligns with your priorities. Some women opt for a prosthetic or go flat and feel completely comfortable with their choice. Others find that reconstruction helps them move forward.

Let’s Talk About Your Options

If you’re thinking about breast reconstruction later in life, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help you explore your options without pressure. We believe that your comfort and well-being should lead the conversation, no matter your age.

Book a consultation today to discuss what feels right for you. We’re here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and support at every step of your decision-making journey.

The Most Common Myths About Breast Lumps

Breast lumps can stir up a lot of worry and confusion, but it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction to take charge of your health. Here at Radhika Breast & General Surgery, we frequently encounter myths that can leave women feeling either overly anxious or mistakenly reassured. So, let’s take a moment to clear up some of the most common misconceptions about breast lumps and talk about when it might be necessary to think about breast lump removal.

Myth 1: All breast lumps are cancerous

It’s completely natural to fear the worst when you find a lump, but the truth is that most breast lumps are benign. Common culprits include cysts, fibroadenomas, or fibrocystic changes, all of which are non-cancerous. While abnormal cell growth can raise concerns for doctors and often leads to further checks, it doesn’t automatically mean the lump is malignant. Getting a timely assessment helps identify what it is, rather than jumping to conclusions.

Myth 2: Small lumps don’t matter, only large ones are the concern

Size isn’t a reliable indicator of risk. A lump the size of a pea can be more concerning than a grapefruit-sized cyst. What really matters is the lump’s texture, how quickly it grows, whether it’s painful, and if it changes over time. Any new or changing lump should prompt a professional evaluation. Early detection is key.

Myth 3: If it doesn’t hurt, it’s harmless

Just because a lump doesn’t hurt doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Many benign lumps can cause discomfort, while early-stage cancers can be completely painless. So, don’t let the absence of pain give you a false sense of security. If you notice a lump or thickening, even if it’s not painful, it’s wise to seek an assessment for your peace of mind.

Myth 4: Breast lump removal isn’t needed unless it’s cancer

Not all lumps require removal, but removal can be warranted when a lump:

• Causes symptoms like persistent pain or discomfort
• Is growing, changing shape or becoming more solid
• Shows uncertain features on imaging tests
• Is causing emotional stress

At Radhika Breast & General Surgery, breast lump removal is done only when needed, via minimally invasive excision, ensuring gentle treatment and quicker recovery.

Myth 5: Self‑examination is unnecessary if you have mammograms

Mammograms offer an excellent overview but can miss very small or deep lumps, especially in younger women with denser breast tissue. Monthly self‑checks familiarise you with what’s normal, so changes, no matter how slight, are noticed early. Combined with imaging and professional exams, self‑checks form a robust early‑detection strategy.

Myth 6: You’re too young for breast lumps or breast cancer

Though breast cancer risk rises with age, it can occur in women in their 20s and 30s. Young women often develop benign conditions, but serious conditions are still possible. Never dismiss a lump due to age. If you feel something unfamiliar, especially if it persists, consult a specialist to rule out anything serious.

What Really Happens During Breast Lump Assessment and Removal

At Radhika Breast & General Surgery, our approach is clear and compassionate:

1. Clinical examination and imaging – Ultrasound or mammography is used to assess lump characteristics.
2. Biopsy (if needed) – A needle sample may be taken to determine if the lump is benign or malignant.
3. Personalised discussion – We review whether monitoring, minimally invasive removal, or further treatment is suitable.
4. Gentle removal technique – For lumps flagged for removal, we use small incisions and precise methods to ensure minimal scarring and fast recovery.

Take Charge of Your Health Today

Don’t let myths delay vital care. If you’ve discovered a breast lump, or even need reassurance that you’re doing all the right checks, Radhika Breast & General Surgery is here for you. We believe every woman deserves expert advice, gentle care and clear answers about breast lump removal.

Not sure about that lump? Book your consultation with us today and gain clarity, confidence and the support you deserve.

Partial vs Full Breast Reconstruction: What’s the Difference, and Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re preparing for breast cancer surgery, you may be offered the option of breast reconstruction. For many women, choosing between partial and full breast reconstruction can feel overwhelming. Both approaches aim to restore the breast’s appearance, but the right choice depends on your treatment, your body, and what matters most to you.

In this article, we’ll explain the differences between partial and full reconstruction in a clear, compassionate way, so you can make a more informed decision with your surgical team.

What Is Partial Breast Reconstruction?

Partial breast reconstruction, sometimes called oncoplastic surgery, is typically offered when only part of the breast needs to be removed, for example, after a lumpectomy (removal of the tumour with a margin of tissue). Instead of leaving a hollow or misshapen area, the remaining breast tissue is reshaped to maintain a natural look.

In some cases, tissue from another part of the body, such as the back or side, may be used to fill in the gap, especially if a larger portion of the breast is removed.

What to expect:

• Shorter surgery and recovery time compared to full reconstruction
• The breast remains intact, with adjustments made to shape and volume
• The other breast may be reshaped for better symmetry
• Often done at the same time as tumour removal

What Is Full Breast Reconstruction?

Full breast reconstruction is generally offered after a mastectomy, where the entire breast is removed. This type of reconstruction rebuilds the shape of the breast using either:

• Implants (filled with saline or silicone), or
• Your own tissue (commonly from the tummy, back, or thigh)

Sometimes, reconstruction is done right after the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction), while in other cases, it’s delayed until after treatments like chemotherapy or radiotherapy are completed.

What to expect:

• A longer operation and recovery period compared to partial reconstruction
• The creation of a new breast mound, with or without nipple reconstruction
• The option of further procedures later to refine shape or balance

How Do You Decide Which Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The decision often depends on:

1. Size and Location of the Tumour

If only a small portion of the breast is affected, partial reconstruction may be suitable. If the tumour is large or involves multiple areas, a mastectomy with full reconstruction may be advised.

2. Breast Size and Shape

Women with larger breasts may have more tissue available for reshaping after a lumpectomy. Those with smaller breasts may benefit more from full reconstruction if a large portion of tissue needs to be removed.

3. Other Treatments (Like Radiotherapy)

Radiotherapy can affect skin and tissue healing. In some cases, it may be more practical to delay full reconstruction or to opt for a method that works well alongside radiation treatment.

4. Personal Preferences and Lifestyle

Some women prefer to keep as much of their natural breast as possible and are more comfortable with a partial approach. Others may want to minimise the chance of future surgeries and opt for full reconstruction in one go.

Your comfort, recovery goals, and long-term expectations all matter.

You’re Not Alone in the Decision

Choosing between partial and full reconstruction is a deeply personal journey, and it’s okay to take your time. Discuss your options with your surgical team, ask questions, and think about what feels right for you, not just physically, but emotionally too.

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’re facing breast surgery and want to explore your reconstruction options, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to support you. We’ll help you understand what each approach involves and guide you towards a decision that aligns with your health needs and personal comfort.

Book a consultation today.

Mastectomy in Singapore: Understanding the Process, Options, and Recovery

Hearing the word mastectomy can stir up a lot of emotions like worry and uncertainty. If you or a loved one are facing this decision, you’re not alone. Many women in Singapore undergo mastectomy as part of managing breast cancer or reducing risk. It’s a deeply personal journey, and understanding the process can help you feel more prepared.

What Is a Mastectomy?

A mastectomy is surgery to remove breast tissue. It’s often recommended for those with breast cancer or for people at high risk of developing it. There isn’t just one type of mastectomy; options exist depending on your diagnosis, stage, and personal preferences.

Common types include:

• Total (simple) mastectomy – removal of the entire breast.
• Skin-sparing mastectomy – preserves as much of the breast skin as possible, often for reconstruction.
• Nipple-sparing mastectomy – keeps the nipple and surrounding skin intact, suitable in certain cases.
• Modified radical mastectomy – removes the breast and some lymph nodes.

Your surgeon will help guide the choice based on what offers the best outcome for your situation.

What Happens During the Process?

Planning for a mastectomy usually starts with imaging tests, blood work, and detailed 

discussions about your medical history. Your care team will talk you through the surgery, the risks, and reconstruction options if you’re considering them.

The procedure takes place under general anaesthesia. Depending on the type of mastectomy, it may take a few hours. Some patients go home the next day, while others stay a bit longer for monitoring.

Recovery After a Mastectomy

Recovery varies, but here’s what many experience:

• Some soreness and tiredness for the first few weeks
• A drain in place for a short time to remove fluid from the area
• Gradual return to daily activities over several weeks
• Guidance on gentle exercises to regain arm and shoulder movement

Emotional recovery is just as important. It’s natural to have mixed feelings as you heal. Support groups and counselling can be valuable during this time.

The Takeaway

A mastectomy is more than just a medical procedure; it’s a big step in your health journey. The process, options, and recovery will look different for everyone, but knowing what to expect can help you feel more in control.

Are you thinking about a mastectomy? Book a consultation with Radhika Breast & General Surgery to discuss your options and next steps.