A/Prof Simon Tsao
Doctor | Surgeon | Researcher
A/Prof Simon Tsao is currently positioned at leading Melbourne (Australia) hospitals, specialising in Breast and Endocrine Surgery. He holds a PhD for his research in cancer detection and is a leader in the field of using liquid biopsy to understand cancer progression and response to treatment.
Associate Professor Simon Tsao
Specialist Breast Surgeon delivering advanced, patient-centred cancer care.
Associate Professor Simon Tsao is a Melbourne-based, Australian-trained Specialist Breast, Endocrine, and General Surgeon. He completed advanced surgical training at The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The Alfred Hospital, followed by subspecialist fellowship training in oncoplastic breast and endocrine surgery at St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne and St. George’s Hospital London. His practice integrates oncological precision with reconstructive principles, offering breast-conserving approaches where clinically appropriate, and collaborating closely with plastic surgeons for both implant-based and autologous reconstruction.
A/Prof Tsao manages a wide spectrum of breast conditions—both malignant and benign—including breast cancer, benign breast lumps, breast pain, nipple discharge, and gynaecomastia. He has additional expertise in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and maintains a general surgery practice addressing hernias, gallbladder pathology, appendicitis, and other common conditions.
A/Prof Tsao is actively involved in translational cancer research, with publications in high-impact journals and a focus on targeted therapies using nanotechnology platforms. His approach is evidence-based, multidisciplinary, and patient-focused.
Understand more about A/Prof Tsao’s clinical practice and research.
Breast Cancer Surgery & Oncoplastic Surgery in Melbourne
Comprehensive surgical management of breast cancer, with an emphasis on safety, cosmetic, function, and long-term outcomes.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian women, with over 20,000 new cases expected each year. While early detection has improved significantly through screening programs, timely and individualised treatment remains critical. Surgical management—either breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy—is often the first step, guided by tumour biology, stage, and patient preference. Additional treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or targeted biologic agents may be recommended as part of a multidisciplinary plan. The aim is to achieve durable cancer control while preserving function and, where possible, breast aesthetics through oncoplastic or reconstructive options. A surgeon with the highest level of oncoplastic training integrates the best breast reconstruction options, reducing the need for total mastectomy.
Surgical management is planned according to tumour pathology, breast architecture, and patient-specific considerations. The clinic has particular expertise in oncoplastic techniques, enabling resection and reconstruction to be performed in a single procedure where appropriate. This approach facilitates adequate margin clearance while aiming to preserve breast contour and symmetry. Collaboration with reconstructive and plastic surgeons allows for the use of both implant-based and autologous reconstruction, depending on clinical suitability. All cases are discussed in a multidisciplinary setting, ensuring alignment with current evidence and best-practice guidelines.
Every person’s cancer journey is unique, understand more about the common steps here.
Gender-Affirming Top Surgery
Specialist, gender-affirming chest surgery delivered in a supportive and clinically experienced setting.
Chest masculinisation surgery (commonly referred to as Top Surgery) involves the removal of breast tissue to achieve a flatter chest contour in transmasculine and non-binary individuals. The decision to undergo this procedure is typically made to reduce gender dysphoria and improve alignment between physical appearance and gender identity. Surgical technique is determined by several factors, including chest size, skin quality, and nipple–areola anatomy. Common methods include double incision with free nipple graft, periareolar, and keyhole approaches, each selected to optimise outcomes while considering scar placement, nipple preservation, and surgical safety. Advanced surgical techniques to improve nipple sensation preservation including nerve grafting and buttonhole surgery are also offered.
The clinic offers chest masculinisation surgery as part of its broader gender-affirming surgical services. A structured pre-operative assessment includes evaluation of chest morphology, surgical goals, and any relevant medical or psychosocial considerations. Technique selection is guided by clinical indications and individual preference. Post-operative care includes wound monitoring, drain management (if applicable), and guidance on scarring and chest contour development. All care is provided in accordance with contemporary guidelines for gender-affirming surgery, within a multidisciplinary and respectful clinical setting.
Learn more about the different types of Top Surgery offered.
Links to Additional Information
Contact
| Email: | info@simontsao.com |
| Phone: | (03) 9133 6639 |
| Fax: | (03) 7067 9936 |
| Location: | Melbourne, Australia |
| Hospitals: | Epworth Richmond, Warringal Private, Western Private |
Appointment booking is provided in English.
Consultations are provided in English and Mandarin Chinese.