Lung Nodule Specialist in Singapore

No. The vast majority—about 95%—of all lung nodules found on scans are completely benign (non-cancerous). They are remarkably common and usually turn out to be tiny, harmless scars left behind by a past chest infection, a resolved bout of pneumonia, or localised inflammation. Even though the statistics are heavily in your favour, having a thoracic specialist evaluate the scan is the safest way to confirm these low-risk features and give you complete peace of mind.

Size is only one factor. Generally, tiny nodules under 6mm are considered very low-risk and typically require nothing more than a routine monitoring scan. Spots between 6mm and 8mm fall into an intermediate category, where a structured monitoring plan is used to keep a close eye on them. Nodules larger than 8mm are evaluated more carefully and may require further analysis. When determining risk, Dr Harish looks at the whole picture: including the nodule’s shape, internal density, edge patterns, and how it behaves over time.

During your consultation, Dr Harish will review your scan with you and explain the findings in clear, easy-to-understand language. For many patients, immediate treatment is not required. Instead, the next step is careful monitoring based on the size and appearance of the nodule, together with your medical history and individual risk factors. If follow-up is recommended, a low-dose CT scan may be arranged after an appropriate interval to check whether the nodule has remained stable or changed over time.

Yes, if it helps you feel more secure. Active surveillance (watchful waiting) is the standard international approach for low-risk or stable nodules. However, waiting for a follow-up scan can sometimes cause underlying anxiety. If you want an expert second look, or simply need a clear translation of your radiology report, a review with Dr Harish is entirely appropriate. Please bring along your previous image records so we can perform a direct, side-by-side comparison.

Most likely not. The vast majority of incidental lung spots never require a biopsy. A biopsy is strictly reserved for intermediate or higher-risk nodules where we need definitive confirmation of the cell types. The procedure is performed under real-time, low-dose imaging to guide a fine needle safely and accurately. If this step is ever necessary, our team will explain the entire process clearly so you know exactly what to expect.

No. You do not need a referral letter from a GP to book an appointment with us; you can contact our clinic directly. However, if you plan to use private medical insurance or an Integrated Shield Plan to cover the costs of your consultation or tracking scans, your insurer may request a GP referral as part of their standard claims process. Our care team will happily help you check these requirements.

Most white spots on the lungs are simply harmless marks or tiny scars left behind from the past. They are very often just the footprints of a previous, completely healed chest infection, an old bout of mild pneumonia, or a temporary patch of localised inflammation where your body naturally fought off an environmental irritant. Because a very small percentage can show early cellular changes, an expert specialist review is always the safest approach to ensure your health is protected.