Cardiothoracic Surgery

The questions below were raised by visitors to the STOMP (Straits Times Online Mobile Print) website in the AskST section of the website. eMenders doctors provided the answers to the questions raised as a public health education project. The information provided below is of a general nature and should not be treated as a replacement for medical advice. You should seek consultation from a medical or healthcare professional about your specific medical condition.

Q A

Surgery for Pectus carinatum (Pigeon chest) is major and is usually performed for severe cases as the deformity in most patients causes cosmetic problem and not any organ dysfunction.

It may cost up to $15,000 for the surgery. The surgery is done to correct the deformity of the chest wall. This surgery is available at Mount Elizabeth and also at the restructured hospitals (but is not commonly done).

If the surgery is performed just to correct a cosmetic defect, it is unlikely that you will be able to receive financial assistance.

We suggest you consult with a cardiothoracic surgeon to evaluate your condition and whether there is a need for surgery.

Contributed by Dr Tong Ming Chuan, eMenders Cardiothoracic Surgeon