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Dr Daniel Lee
Specialty: General Surgery (Colorectal)
Clinic: Colorectal Clinic Associates
Also available in Simplified Chinese, Bahasa Indonesia, and Vietnamese.
Who Is Dr Daniel Lee?
Dr Daniel Lee Jin Keat is a Senior Consultant General Surgeon in Singapore practicing at Colorectal Clinic Associates. He specialises in colorectal surgery and has particular expertise in treating complex and advanced rectal cancers. Over the years, he has also developed a strong focus on geriatric surgery, working to improve surgical care and recovery for older patients.
Dr Lee graduated from the University of Putra Malaysia in 2004. He then became a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 2009. Having completed his advanced surgical training, Dr Lee was awarded a Fellowship from the same college in 2015. His international training includes two prestigious fellowships in the United Kingdom: one in advanced colorectal surgery at St James’s University Hospital in Leeds, and another in trauma surgery at the Royal London Hospital.
In his previous role as Head of Colorectal Surgery and Surgical Lead for Geriatric Surgery at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Dr Lee led efforts to enhance patient outcomes, particularly for the elderly, by improving surgical processes and introducing new screening and prehabilitation practices.
Alongside his clinical work, Dr Lee remains active in research and teaching, contributing to international conferences and mentoring the next generation of surgeons as a senior lecturer at two leading medical schools in Singapore.
Academic Qualifications
Dr Lee’s academic qualifications include:
- Medical Degree from the University of Putra Malaysia (2004)
- Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MRCS) – awarded in 2009
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (FRCS) – awarded in 2015 after completing advanced surgical training
- Fellowship in Advanced Colorectal Surgery at St James’s University Hospital, Leeds, UK
- Fellowship in Surgical Trauma Care at the Royal London Hospital, UK
Clinical Expertise
Dr Daniel Lee is a strong proponent of minimally invasive surgery for the treatment of a wide range of colorectal conditions. Advanced surgical techniques performed by Dr Lee include laparoscopic colorectal resection and Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery (TAMIS). Dr Lee is also an expert in minimally invasive treatment for proctological conditions. His proficiency in this area extends to cutting-edge procedures such as laser hemorrhoidoplasty (for piles / hemorrhoids), VAAFT (for anal fistulas), and EPSIT (for pilonidal sinus disease).
In the field of cancer surgery, Dr Daniel Lee has extensive experience managing complex and recurrent rectal cancer cases, including those requiring exenterative procedures.
Dr Lee also has expertise in screening and diagnostic procedure such as gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and endorectal ultrasound.
What Is Dr Lee’s Ethos In Medicine?
Dr Daniel Lee is an advocate for the adage that prevention is better than cure. He encourages healthy lifestyles, regular screening, and timely treatment of health conditions before they become advanced.
In the area of patient care, Dr Lee is a champion for multi-disciplinary and bespoke approaches. He works as a team with other medical professionals to ensure that patients’ needs are looked after holistically, such as in the areas of nutrition, physiotherapy, psycho-social support, and more. Furthermore, patients have their unique circumstances. Dr Lee ensures that treatment plans are bespoke and customised to each patient’s requirements.
If You Run Into Dr Lee Outside Work, You Are Likely To…
… see him keeping an active lifestyle, staying fit with activities such as swimming, cycling and tennis.
10 Question & Answers
I’ve always been intrigued by medical technology — and it’s no surprise that many innovations, from minimally invasive techniques to advanced energy devices, have taken root in colorectal surgery. It’s a field that constantly evolves. Beyond the tech, I’ve also had first-hand experience caring for a loved one with cancer, which deepened my commitment to making a difference in this space.
Patients should seek a colorectal surgeon if they experience persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, if they have been advised to undergo screening, or if they have been diagnosed with colorectal conditions requiring specialised care.
I remain active in research, attend international conferences, and collaborate with peers to stay updated on cutting-edge techniques and emerging technologies.
I believe in a holistic and personalised approach. Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s needs, with support across nutrition, physical rehabilitation, and psychological care.
Two patients come to mind — one, a young and otherwise healthy new parent who presented with colorectal cancer with life-threatening complications; the other, a frail elderly lady with cancer that had caused blockage of her colon, was encouraged by her supportive family to undergo surgery. Despite the high stakes, both had successful outcomes through multidisciplinary care and strong emotional support. These cases remind me that every patient carries a story — and as surgeons, it’s our privilege to be part of that story and provide the best possible care.
Misconception: Colorectal cancer only affects older people.
While age is a risk factor, we’re seeing more cases in younger adults. I remind patients to be aware of symptoms like bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss — and not to delay getting checked.
Misconception: If I feel fine, I don’t need screening.
Unfortunately, colorectal cancer is frequently considered a “silent killer” as it often has no symptoms in early stages. Screening is about catching problems before they become serious — that’s how lives are saved.
Misconception: Surgery, when required, is very painful.
Fortunately, advances like minimally invasive techniques and enhanced recovery protocols have made modern surgery much more comfortable.
I make sure to take time to educate patients and explain their choices to them clearly, and with empathy. This is to ensure that they understand every option available and have the information they need to make informed decisions.
I stay active through sports such as swimming, cycling, and tennis. They help me unwind and recharge, which ultimately allows me to remain fully present and engaged with my patients.
I am excited by the advances in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. These techniques offer greater precision, smaller incisions, and faster recovery for patients. Robotic systems, in particular, enhance visibility and control during complex procedures, leading to better outcomes. Such innovations are redefining how we approach colorectal surgery, especially for complex cases.
I believe that regular screening, healthy diet, active lifestyle, and awareness of symptoms are key. Prevention and early detection remain the most powerful tools in fighting colorectal cancer.
the vision
Surgical precision, bespoke treatment
“Every patient deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and empathy. For maximum effectiveness, treatments should be customised based on their individual circumstances and requirements.” – Dr Daniel Lee
Services From Dr Daniel lee
Reviewed Articles
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Minimally Invasive Piles Treatment Options In Singapore
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Dr Daniel Lee Interview Video
Dr Daniel Lee explains common anorectal problems and when surgery is required. He also explains how surgeons reduce surgery-related pain, risks, and recovery time.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.