Foot and ankle health is crucial for mobility and quality of life, yet conditions like fractures, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and sports injuries are common in Malaysia’s active population. Fortunately, the country boasts world-class orthopedic surgeons specializing in foot and ankle care. This article highlights Malaysia’s top specialists, including those at Gleneagles Hospital Penang, and answers key questions about selecting the right foot and ankle surgeon, costs, and treatments.
The Importance of Foot and Ankle Specialists
Foot and ankle surgeons address complex issues affecting bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Their expertise spans:
- Trauma: Fractures, sprains, and Achilles tendon ruptures.
- Degenerative Conditions: Arthritis, flat feet, and bunions.
- Sports Injuries: Stress fractures and ligament tears.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Corrective procedures for congenital deformities or post-traumatic damage.
Choosing a skilled surgeon ensures accurate diagnosis, minimally invasive treatments, and faster recovery.
Criteria for Selecting a Top Foot and Ankle Surgeon
- Subspecialty Training: Look for surgeons with fellowships in foot and ankle orthopedics.
- Experience: A track record of successful surgeries for conditions like ankle replacements or complex reconstructions.
- Hospital Affiliation: Top-tier hospitals offer advanced technology (e.g., 3D imaging, arthroscopy) and multidisciplinary support.
- Patient Reviews: Positive testimonials about communication, post-op care, and outcomes.
Leading Foot and Ankle Surgeons in Malaysia
1. Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur & Penang
Part of the IHH Healthcare Group, Gleneagles hospitals are renowned for orthopedic excellence. Notable specialists include:
- Dr. Selvam Thavarajah (Gleneagles Kuala Lumpur)
- Expertise: Complex trauma, ankle replacements, and diabetic foot management.
- Credentials: Fellowship-trained in orthopaedic surgery (UK), member of the Malaysian Orthopaedic Association (MOA).
- Dr. Saw Khay Yong (Gleneagles Penang)
- Expertise: Sports-related foot injuries, arthroscopic surgery, and minimally invasive techniques.
- Reputation: Known for personalized rehabilitation plans.
Why Gleneagles?
- Advanced Diagnostics: MRI, CT scans, and gait analysis.
- Post-Op Care: Tailored physiotherapy and pain management.
2. Sunway Medical Centre, Selangor
- Dr. Lee Joon Kiong
- Expertise: Ankle instability, plantar fasciitis, and pediatric foot deformities.
- Credentials: AO Trauma fellowship (Switzerland), 15+ years of experience.
3. Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur
- Dr. Mohd Hisam Basri
- Expertise: Bunion corrections, Achilles tendon repairs, and limb salvage surgery.
- Notable Work: Pioneers minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery.
4. KPJ Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital
- Dr. Azril Shahreez Abd Aziz
- Expertise: Diabetic foot ulcers, Charcot foot reconstruction.
- Approach: Integrates wound care specialists for holistic treatment.
Common Foot and Ankle Procedures in Malaysia
- Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS): Smaller incisions for bunionectomy or hammertoe correction procedures.
- Ankle Arthroscopy: Repairs ligaments or removes loose cartilage.
- Total Ankle Replacement: For severe arthritis, costing RM40,000–RM80,000 in private hospitals.
- Ligament Reconstruction: Common for athletes, with recovery in 3–6 months.
Cost of Foot and Ankle Treatments
| Procedure | Public Hospital | Private Hospital |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | RM30–RM80 | RM100–RM300 |
| X-ray/Diagnostic Imaging | RM50–RM150 (subsidized) | RM200–RM800 |
| Bunion Surgery | RM5,000–RM10,000 | RM15,000–RM30,000 |
| Achilles Tendon Repair | RM8,000–RM12,000 | RM20,000–RM40,000 |
Note: Public hospital rates are subsidized for Malaysians but involve longer wait times.
5 FAQs About Foot and Ankle Surgeons in Malaysia
1. Who is the best foot and ankle surgeon in Malaysia?
Top names include Dr. Selvam Thavarajah (Gleneagles KL), Dr. Lee Joon Kiong (Sunway Medical), and Dr. Mohd Hisam Basri (Pantai Hospital). Dr. Saw Khay Yong is highly recommended for sports-related foot injuries at Gleneagles Penang.
2. How do I find a specialist at Gleneagles Penang?
Visit Gleneagles Penang’s website or contact their orthopedic department (+604-222 9111). Specify your condition to be matched with a suitable surgeon.
3. What should I ask during a consultation?
- Surgeon’s experience with your specific condition.
- Success rates and potential complications.
- Post-surgery rehab plans.
4. Does insurance cover foot surgery?
Most policies cover medically necessary procedures. Confirm with your insurer and hospital billing team pre-surgery.
5. How long is the recovery after ankle surgery?
- Minimally invasive procedures: 2–6 weeks.
- Major reconstructions: 3–6 months.
Gleneagles Penang offers rehab programs to accelerate recovery.
Why Choose Gleneagles Hospital Penang?
- Expertise: Surgeons trained in the UK, Australia, or the US.
- Technology: Advanced imaging and arthroscopic tools.
- Medical Tourism Support: Assistance with visas, accommodation, and transfers.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s top foot and ankle surgeons, including those at Gleneagles Hospital Penang, combine expertise with cutting-edge care to address complex conditions. Whether seeking treatment for a sports injury or chronic arthritis, patients can expect world-class outcomes. For the best results, prioritize surgeons with subspecialty training and transparent communication.
To Consult a Specialist at Gleneagles Penang:
- Website: www.gleneagles.com.my/penang
- Phone: +604-222 9111
By choosing a skilled surgeon, you invest in a future of pain-free movement and renewed independence.
Note: Always verify surgeons’ credentials via the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) registry or hospital websites before booking consultations.
