Breast Cancer Surgery in India
Breast cancer surgery removes the tumor (and, when needed, checks nearby lymph nodes) while protecting long-term health and body image. Options include breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), mastectomy, and immediate or delayed reconstruction. A focused sentinel lymph node biopsy helps stage disease and limit arm swelling risk.
Discover what this treats so that you can choose confidently
Breast surgery removes cancerous tissue and, when indicated, nearby lymph nodes to check spread. Choices include breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), mastectomy (whole-breast removal), and reconstruction to restore shape. Sentinel lymph node biopsy samples the first draining nodes to minimize arm swelling risk compared with full node removal.
Why people choose India when this procedure is needed
- Modern operating theaters and accredited comprehensive cancer centers
- High-volume breast surgeons and standardized multidisciplinary tumor boards
- Shorter waiting times, clear package pricing, and multilingual coordinators
- Oncoplastic techniques and reconstruction options respecting body image
- End-to-end support for international patients from first call to flight home
India focuses on safe care that respects both your budget and your body image.
How the procedure works in simple steps
Breast surgery follows a careful plan so you know what to expect.
- Before surgery: Imaging and biopsy confirm diagnosis; options (lumpectomy/mastectomy, sentinel node) are discussed; pre-anesthesia evaluation checks fitness.
- During surgery: Under general anesthesia, the tumor plus a rim of healthy tissue is removed (lumpectomy) or the entire breast tissue is removed (mastectomy). Sentinel nodes are mapped with dye/tracer and sampled. If chosen, reconstruction (implant or flap) can start immediately.
- After surgery: Recovery monitoring for pain/bleeding; a small drain may be placed. Pathology guides further treatment (radiation, hormone therapy, chemotherapy) as needed.
Think of it like planning a trip: choose the best route (lumpectomy or mastectomy), the right guide (your team), and the itinerary (additional treatments) to reach a safe destination.
Who should consider this and when to wait
- Early or locally advanced breast cancer where surgery aids control
- Often combined with radiation after lumpectomy, and medicines before/after surgery as indicated
You might wait or change sequence if neoadjuvant therapy (treatment before surgery) is recommended to shrink the tumor, or if medical issues need optimization first. Ask: which option offers the best chance of clear margins with least risk, and what home supports do I have for the first two weeks?
Benefits and risks that you should understand
Potential benefits
- Removal of the known cancer with clear margins when possible
- Accurate staging via sentinel/axillary node evaluation
- Immediate or delayed reconstruction options to support body image
- Short hospital stays and quick return to light activity for many
Possible risks
- Infection or bleeding (rarely needs re-operation)
- Seroma (fluid collection) that may need drainage
- Arm stiffness or lymphedema—risk lower with sentinel node biopsy than full clearance
- Numbness or altered chest/breast sensation
No surgery guarantees a cure—tumor biology and margins guide next steps. Experienced teams help minimize complications and smooth recovery.
Your journey step by step from first call to follow-up
- Step 1 • Consultation & decision: Share reports; surgeon explains lumpectomy vs mastectomy and reconstruction with visuals.
- Step 2 • Pre-travel / pre-surgery checklist: Passport/visa, imaging & pathology, medicines/allergies list, front-open clothing, soft post-op bra (if advised), a caregiver for week one.
- Step 3 • Surgery day: Arrive fasting. Typical time: lumpectomy 1–3h; mastectomy 2–4h; reconstruction may add time.
- Step 4 • Hospital stay: Lumpectomy: day-care or overnight. Mastectomy: 2–3 days. Teaching for drain care and arm exercises.
- Step 5 • Results & next steps: Pathology in ~3–5 working days; tumor board confirms radiation/hormone/chemo plan.
- Step 6 • Follow-up: Video reviews for many questions after return home; schedule first in-person review as advised.
Patient moment “R, 46, chose lumpectomy with sentinel node biopsy after brief pre-surgery medicines. She returned to desk work in two weeks and completed targeted radiation as an outpatient.”
Recovery timeline so that planning feels easier
- Days 1–3: Pain well-controlled; gentle walking encouraged.
- End of week 1: Showering and basic chores for many; drain care if applicable.
- Weeks 2–3: Stitches/tapes off; return to desk work if comfortable.
- Weeks 4–6: Gradual exercise with physiotherapy guidance.
- Ongoing: Watch for arm/chest swelling and report promptly.
Daily question: what movement can I do without pulling the surgical site? Which small habit—walks, protein-rich meals, good sleep—will speed healing this week?
Cost overview without surprises
| Scenario | Illustrative cost range (USD) | Typical hospital stay |
|---|---|---|
| Lumpectomy with sentinel node biopsy | 3200 – 5200 | 1 – 2 days |
| Simple mastectomy with sentinel node biopsy | 3800 – 6500 | 2 – 3 days |
| Skin/nipple-sparing mastectomy with implant | 6800 – 9800 | 3 – 4 days |
| Mastectomy with flap (DIEP/LD etc.) | 9500 – 14500 | 4 – 6 days |
Simple math example
- Base package • Simple mastectomy: $4,200
- Room class upgrade: $600
- Sentinel node mapping & pathology: $900
- Two extra inpatient days ($250 each): $500
- Estimated total: $6,200
Ask for a written quote with inclusions (anesthesia, medicines, pathology, drains, physiotherapy) and exclusions (blood products, take-home meds, extra nights).
How to compare hospitals and specialists with confidence
Choose a center like an airline for a long journey—experienced pilots (surgeons), reliable aircraft (accredited facility), and a clear ticket price (package) with no hidden add-ons.
- Surgeon’s annual breast surgery volume and outcomes
- Availability of sentinel node biopsy and oncoplastic techniques
- Accredited pathology and radiation units on the same campus
- Dedicated breast care nurses and lymphedema services
- Transparent packages and video follow-up options
Which team offers the best value for your surgery—and communicates in a way that makes you feel safe and heard?
Questions people often ask before this treatment
Is lumpectomy as effective as mastectomy?
For many early cancers, lumpectomy followed by radiation offers survival similar to mastectomy. Tumor size, location, and your preferences matter.
Will I need lymph nodes removed?
Most have a sentinel node biopsy (few nodes). Full axillary clearance is reserved for specific findings.
How soon can I return to normal activities?
Often 1–2 weeks after lumpectomy; 2–4 weeks after mastectomy without reconstruction. Reconstruction may extend timelines.
Can I choose immediate reconstruction?
Yes—if your cancer profile and overall health allow. Your surgical team will discuss implant vs flap options or whether delayed reconstruction is wiser.
Important care note so that every reader stays safe
Follow wound-care instructions, take medicines on schedule, and begin arm exercises as taught. Seek urgent advice for fever, sudden swelling, increasing pain, or cloudy/foul-smelling drainage. Emotional swings are common—ask about counseling and peer support.
Video testimonials from real patients
Watch genuine stories from international patients who chose breast cancer surgery in India—showing home recovery and how team-based care works.
Medically reviewed by
Dr Aryan Malhotra
MBBS, David Tvildiani Medical University, Georgia
Radiation Oncology Resident, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital
Registration number: 95565
Dr Malhotra reviews pages for accuracy, clarity, and patient friendliness so information stays current and safe for care discussions.
Disclaimer
This page is for education only. Decisions about tests and treatments must be made with a licensed specialist who has examined you and reviewed your reports.
References
Watch patient videos
https://www.youtube.com/@TreatmentCost