Lung Transplant in India
Your lungs are vital “air filters.” In end-stage disease from pulmonary fibrosis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, or pulmonary hypertension, medicines and oxygen may no longer be enough. A Lung Transplant replaces one or both diseased lungs with healthy donor lungs—restoring breathing capacity, energy, and quality of life.
Discover what this treats so that you can choose confidently
Lung transplant treats end-stage respiratory failure from pulmonary fibrosis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension when therapy and oxygen no longer suffice. New lungs restore oxygen exchange and daily stamina.
Why people choose India when this procedure is needed
- Expert cardiothoracic surgeons trained in Europe, USA, and Australia
- NABH/JCI-accredited hospitals with specialized transplant ICUs
- Advanced donor retrieval and preservation technology
- Costs 70–80% lower than Western countries
- Comprehensive evaluation and pulmonary rehabilitation programs
- 24×7 monitoring, infection control, and post-surgery care
Leading Indian hospitals report eighty-five to ninety percent success—comparable to top international centers.
How the procedure works in simple steps
Like changing clogged air filters, new lungs let oxygen flow freely again.
- Evaluation: CT scan, lung function tests, blood work, and fitness assessment.
- Donor matching: Compatible lungs via India’s NOTTO organ-sharing system.
- Surgery: Under general anesthesia on heart–lung bypass; diseased lung(s) removed and donor lungs connected to airways and vessels.
- Post-op care: ICU monitoring, physiotherapy, and breathing exercises.
Duration: single-lung 6–8 hours; double-lung 8–10 hours.
Who should consider this and when to wait
- End-stage lung disease unresponsive to therapy
- Oxygen dependence even at rest
- Frequent hospitalizations for respiratory failure
- FEV1 below 25–30% predicted
Consider waiting or alternatives if infections or organ dysfunction are active, you’re unfit for major surgery, or no suitable donor is available. Your pulmonologist and transplant surgeon guide timing.
Benefits and risks that you should understand
Benefits
- Improved breathing and oxygen levels
- Reduced oxygen dependence
- Better mobility, stamina, and quality of life
- Longer survival and fewer admissions
Possible risks (closely managed)
- Rejection (controlled with immunosuppression)
- Infections during low-immunity phase
- Airway complications or bleeding
- Medication side effects
With experienced teams and strict follow-up, most patients enjoy durable, active recovery.
Recovery timeline so that planning feels easier
- Week 1–2: ICU stay with breathing support and close monitoring.
- Month 1: Transition to oral meds; start physiotherapy and walking.
- Month 2–3: Lung strength improves; resume normal diet and light activity.
- Month 6–12: Return to independent living, travel, and moderate exercise.
Patient moment “I could barely climb two steps before surgery. After my lung transplant in India, I breathe freely and live fully again.”
Cost overview without surprises
| Type of Lung Transplant | Average Cost (USD) | Typical Hospital Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Single Lung Transplant | 38000 – 50000 | 20 – 25 days |
| Double Lung Transplant | 55000 – 70000 | 25 – 30 days |
| Heart–Lung Combined Transplant | 70000 – 90000 | 30 – 35 days |
Final cost varies by donor type, hospital category, and post-surgery medications. Personalized estimates are provided after evaluation.
How to compare hospitals and specialists with confidence
Choosing the right center is like assembling the best crew for a long flight—teamwork, precision, and vigilance matter most.
- NOTTO registration and government transplant license
- Experienced thoracic and cardiac transplant surgeons
- Dedicated transplant ICU with HEPA filtration
- Post-transplant pulmonary rehab facilities
- Transparent cost structure and donor coordination
Ask about one-year survival, infection control success, and rehabilitation programs before deciding.
Questions people often ask before this treatment
How long does a transplanted lung last?
On average 10–15 years, depending on care, medications, and lifestyle.
Will I breathe normally right after surgery?
Most patients feel major improvement within days as the new lungs function.
Do I need lifelong medicines?
Yes—immunosuppressants are required to prevent rejection.
What are success rates in India?
Top hospitals achieve 85–90% short-term survival with excellent long-term outcomes.
Can I travel after recovery?
Yes—many resume travel and work within 6–9 months post-transplant.
Video testimonials from real patients
Watch inspiring recovery stories from patients who underwent lung transplants in India.
Important care note so that every reader stays safe
Follow immunosuppressive medication schedules strictly, avoid crowds and pollution, maintain hand hygiene, and attend all follow-up lung function tests.
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 organ transplant and thoracic surgery content for Treatmentcost.com to ensure factual accuracy, safety, and readability.
Disclaimer
This page is educational and not a substitute for medical advice. Lung transplantation must be evaluated and supervised by qualified cardiothoracic surgeons and transplant teams under legal and ethical protocols.
References
Watch patient videos
https://www.youtube.com/@TreatmentCost