About Breast Cancer
Key Highlights
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Primary curative treatment for localized breast cancer.Tailored approach (lumpectomy or mastectomy) based on individual cancer profile.Performed by a specialist (Surgical Oncologist) with expertise in cancer surgery.Often allows for breast conservation and reconstructive options.Provides tissue for definitive diagnosis (pathology) and biomarker testing.Critical for accurate staging by evaluating lymph nodes.liIntegral part of a multimodal treatment plan for optimal outcomes./li/ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of invasive breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
- Localized tumor that has not spread extensively beyond the breast.
- As part of treatment following neoadjuvant chemotherapy to shrink a tumor.
- Prophylactic (preventive) surgery for individuals at very high genetic risk (e.g., BRCA mutation).
- Recurrent breast cancer in a previously treated breast.
- To obtain a tissue sample for definitive diagnosis when other biopsies are inconclusive.
How to prepare
- Complete diagnostic workup including mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy.
- Multidisciplinary team consultation to finalize the surgical plan.
- Pre-operative tests like blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray to assess fitness for anesthesia.
- Discussion of surgical options (lumpectomy vs. mastectomy) and potential for immediate reconstruction.
- Stopping certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the surgeon.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the scheduled surgery.
- Arranging for post-operative support and care at home.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: Reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, and blood clots.
- Pain, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site.
- Seroma (fluid collection) or hematoma (blood collection) requiring drainage.
- Changes in breast sensation, shape, and symmetry.
- Lymphedema (arm swelling) if lymph nodes are removed.
- Limited shoulder mobility or stiffness (frozen shoulder).
- Rare risks include damage to nearby nerves, blood vessels, or lungs.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay typically required for initial pain management and monitoring.
- Drainage tubes may be placed to remove fluid and are usually removed within 1-2 weeks.
- Pain is managed with prescribed medications; strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks.
- Specific arm exercises are prescribed to restore range of motion and prevent stiffness.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing, review pathology reports, and discuss further treatment.
- Emotional support and counseling are important aspects of recovery.
- Gradual return to normal activities as guided by the surgical team.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-3 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-6 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering breast cancer in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with surgical oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform breast cancer. MediFyr helps you compare surgical oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for breast cancer compare across other countries where we have data.
Ananya Jones, a 42-year-old high school...
Ananya Jones, a 42-year-old high school biology teacher and mother of two, discovered a small, firm lump in her left breast during a routine self-exam. With no family history of breast cancer, she initially dismissed it but scheduled a mammogram after it didn't change with her menstrual cycle. The mammogram and subsequent biopsy confirmed invasive ductal carcinoma, ER/PR positive, HER2-negative. Her surgical oncologist, Dr. Evans, recommended a lumpectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy, explaining it would remove the tumor while preserving the breast, followed by radiation. Ananya was terrified of the surgery and potential disfigurement, worrying about how her young daughters would see her. The procedure went smoothly as an outpatient surgery. Recovery involved managing surgical site pain and limited arm movement for a week, but pathology showed clear margins and no lymph node involvement. Post-surgery, she felt a profound relief mixed with vulnerability. While anxious about starting radiation, she felt empowered by having actively fought the cancer and was deeply grateful for the breast-conserving outcome. Her emotional journey shifted from fear of loss to a determined focus on healing for her family.
Surgical Oncologists for Breast Cancer
Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform breast cancer and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 9 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 11 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 39 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore