About Breast Cancer Male
Key Highlights
-
Performed by specialized surgical oncologists with expertise in male breast anatomy and oncology.Aims for complete tumor removal (clear surgical margins) to reduce recurrence risk.Often allows for sentinel lymph node biopsy, a less invasive method to check for cancer spread.Primary treatment that can be curative, especially for early-stage cancers.Provides tissue for definitive diagnosis and biomarker testing (e.g., hormone receptors) to guide further therapy.Focuses on both cancer control and preservation of chest wall function and cosmesis where appropriate./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of invasive breast carcinoma (ductal carcinoma is most common) in male patients.
- Presence of a palpable lump or mass in the breast tissue confirmed as cancerous via biopsy.
- Non-invasive cancer (DCIS - Ductal Carcinoma In Situ) with high-risk features.
- Locally advanced breast cancer, often requiring surgery after neoadjuvant (pre-operative) therapy.
- Recurrent breast cancer in the chest wall after previous treatment.
- Prophylactic mastectomy in rare cases of very high genetic risk (e.g., BRCA2 mutation).
How to prepare
- Complete diagnostic workup including mammogram, ultrasound, and core needle biopsy for confirmation.
- Staging tests such as CT scan, bone scan, or PET-CT to rule out distant metastasis.
- Pre-operative anesthesia evaluation and review of all medications (may need to stop blood thinners).
- Discussion of surgical plan, including type of mastectomy and lymph node assessment.
- Nutritional optimization and cessation of smoking to improve healing.
- Pre-operative marking and measurements by the surgical team.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before surgery as instructed.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: Reaction to anesthesia, bleeding (hematoma), infection, and poor wound healing.
- Persistent post-operative pain or numbness in the chest and underarm area.
- Lymphedema (arm swelling) if multiple lymph nodes are removed.
- Limited shoulder mobility or stiffness, requiring physical therapy.
- Seroma formation (fluid collection under the skin).
- Asymmetry of the chest wall and cosmetic concerns.
- Rare risks include damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels.
- Risk of cancer recurrence despite surgery.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay typically required for 1-3 days for pain management and drain care.
- One or more surgical drains are placed to remove fluid; these are removed a week or two later.
- Pain is managed with prescribed medications; arm movement is encouraged as advised.
- Stitches or staples are usually removed in 10-14 days.
- Gradual return to light activities within a few weeks; heavy lifting restricted for 4-6 weeks.
- Physical therapy is often recommended to restore full shoulder range of motion.
- Regular follow-up with the surgical oncologist for wound checks and to plan adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy) if needed.
- Emotional and psychological support is important during recovery.
-
Typical hospital stay: 1-3 days
-
Expected recovery time: 3-6 weeks for initial recovery; full recovery may take several months
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering breast cancer male 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 male. 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 male compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 150 Thousand – 400 Thousand | 1-3 days | ~ 3-6 weeks for initial recovery; full recovery may take several months | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 525 Thousand – 1.4 Million | 1-3 days | ~ 3-6 weeks for initial recovery; full recovery may take several months | Know More |
Vivaan Johnson, 68, is a retired...
Vivaan Johnson, 68, is a retired history teacher and grandfather of five. He has always been health-conscious, with no significant family history of breast cancer. He noticed a small, painless lump behind his left nipple during a routine shower six months ago, initially dismissing it. When the lump didn't go away and his nipple began to retract slightly, his wife insisted he see his GP. A mammogram and subsequent biopsy confirmed invasive ductal carcinoma, estrogen-receptor positive. His surgical oncologist, Dr. Evans, recommended a unilateral mastectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy, explaining that while rare, male breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage and tends to be hormone-driven. Vivaan felt a mix of shock and embarrassment, struggling with the societal perception of a 'woman's disease.' The surgery went smoothly. Recovery was physically straightforward but emotionally complex; he dealt with chest tightness and managed pain with medication. The pathology report showed clear margins and no lymph node involvement, meaning no further surgery was needed, and he would start on Tamoxifen. Emotionally, he moved from initial shame and isolation to becoming an advocate. He now speaks openly about his experience to raise awareness, finding strength in supporting others and in his family's unwavering love.
Surgical Oncologists for Breast Cancer Male
Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform breast cancer male 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