Procedure
Dr Chen may recommend a colonoscopy if you have any of the following, or for routine colorectal cancer screening from age 50 (or earlier if you have a family history):
The bowel must be empty and clean so the surgeon can see the lining clearly. You will be given detailed instructions at your consultation. In general:
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 2–3 days before | Start a low-fibre diet; avoid nuts, seeds and high-fibre foods |
| Day before | Clear fluids only from a set time; take the prescribed bowel-cleansing preparation in the evening |
| Morning of | A second dose of preparation may be needed; stop clear fluids a few hours before your appointment time |
BUILD NOTE — exact prep protocol and timings to be confirmed by Dr Chen at the content interview.
A colonoscopy is usually performed as a day procedure. You are given sedation through a drip so you are comfortable and drowsy. The colonoscope is passed gently through the anus and guided around the large bowel. If polyps are found, they can often be removed during the same procedure, and small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken. The examination itself usually takes about 20 to 45 minutes.
You rest in the recovery area until the sedation wears off, usually about an hour. You may feel bloated as trapped air passes — this settles quickly. Because of the sedation, you should not drive, operate machinery or sign important documents for the rest of the day, and you should arrange for someone to accompany you home. Most people return to normal activities the next day.
The cost depends on whether the colonoscopy is diagnostic or includes polyp removal, and on your insurance. For eligible Singapore Citizens and PRs it is Medisave-claimable, and an Integrated Shield plan may cover a large part of the cost. We are happy to give you a clear, personalised quote before your procedure.
Colonoscopy cost & what you can claim →
Colonoscopy is a commonly performed and generally safe procedure. As with any medical procedure there are some risks, which Dr Chen will discuss with you. These are uncommon and include bleeding (particularly after polyp removal), a reaction to the sedation, and, rarely, a tear in the bowel wall. Dr Chen will explain these in the context of your own health before you consent.
For eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, a colonoscopy is Medisave-claimable, and part of the cost may be covered by your Integrated Shield plan. Contact the clinic to confirm your eligibility.
BUILD NOTE — confirm which insurer panels Dr Chen is on before publishing logos.
A colonoscopy is usually done under sedation, so most patients are asleep or drowsy and do not feel pain during the procedure. Some bloating or cramping can occur afterwards as trapped air passes.
The procedure itself usually takes about 20 to 45 minutes. With preparation, sedation and recovery, you should set aside a few hours at the clinic or day-surgery centre.
Colonoscopy is Medisave-claimable for eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, up to the withdrawal limit set for the procedure. If you have an Integrated Shield plan, part of the cost may also be covered. Please contact the clinic to confirm your eligibility.
You follow a low-fibre diet for a day or two, then take a prescribed bowel-cleansing preparation the evening before and, in some cases, the morning of the procedure. Detailed instructions are given at your consultation.
BUILD NOTE — add 2–3 citations to MOH / clinical sources (e.g. MOH screening guidelines, Singapore Cancer Society) to strengthen E-E-A-T and AI citation. Confirm links at review.
Send a message on WhatsApp or request an appointment with Dr Chen. Our clinic will get back to you during operating hours.
