Learn about Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology

Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure performed by an oncologist to evaluate suspicious lumps or masses. Using a very thin, hollow needle, the specialist extracts a small sample of cells from the area of concern, such as a thyroid nodule, breast lump, or enlarged lymph node. The collected cells are then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to determine if they are benign (non-cancerous), malignant (cancerous), or indicative of another condition like infection. This quick, outpatient procedure is a cornerstone of cancer diagnosis, providing critical information to guide treatment planning with minimal discomfort and a low risk of complications.

Key Highlights

    Minimally invasive with no surgical incision required.Quick outpatient procedure, often completed in 15-30 minutes.Provides rapid, accurate diagnosis to guide cancer treatment plans.Generally well-tolerated with local anesthesia.Lower risk of complications compared to surgical biopsy.Minimal scarring and faster recovery time.liCost-effective diagnostic tool./li/ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Evaluation of a newly palpable lump in the breast, thyroid, or soft tissue.
  • Assessment of enlarged lymph nodes to rule out lymphoma or metastatic cancer.
  • Diagnosis of suspicious masses identified on imaging scans (ultrasound, CT, mammogram).
  • Determining if a known tumor is benign or malignant (cancerous).
  • Investigating recurrent masses in patients with a history of cancer.
  • Guiding treatment decisions for confirmed cancers.
  • Diagnosing cysts or infectious abscesses.

How to prepare

  • Inform your oncologist about all medications, especially blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel).
  • Disclose any allergies, particularly to local anesthetics or latex.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for easy access to the procedure site.
  • You may eat and drink normally before the procedure unless instructed otherwise.
  • No special fasting is usually required.
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home if you are anxious or if the site is difficult to access.

Risks & possible complications

  • Minor bleeding or bruising (hematoma) at the needle site.
  • Mild pain or discomfort during or after the procedure.
  • Small risk of infection at the puncture site.
  • Rarely, fainting (vasovagal reaction) during the procedure.
  • In very rare cases, injury to nearby structures (e.g., nerves, blood vessels).
  • Possibility of an inconclusive or non-diagnostic sample requiring a repeat procedure.
  • Extremely rare risk of tumor seeding (spread of cancer cells along the needle tract).

Recovery & hospital stay

  • You can typically resume normal activities immediately or within a few hours.
  • Apply a cold pack to the site if there is minor swelling or discomfort.
  • Keep the bandage clean and dry for 24 hours.
  • You may experience mild soreness for 1-2 days; over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
  • Monitor the site for signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever).
  • Your oncologist will schedule a follow-up to discuss the pathology results, usually within a week.
  • No heavy lifting or strenuous exercise on the affected side for 24-48 hours.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (Outpatient)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1-2 days

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering fine needle aspiration cytology in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for fine needle aspiration cytology compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 17 – USD 88 0 days (Outpatient) ~ 1-2 days Know More
Turkey USD 123 – USD 656 0 days (Outpatient) ~ 1-2 days Know More

Top hospitals for Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated oncologist teams and experience managing patients undergoing fine needle aspiration cytology.

  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
79+ Rating

Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar

  • IconHyderabad, India
  • Icon67 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
89+ Rating

Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa

  • Iconvijayawada, India
  • Icon44 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
15+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon145 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
43+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon200 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
2143+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Baner

  • IconPune, India
  • Icon48 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
432+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Gurgaon

  • IconGurgaon, India
  • Icon60 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
2478+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Jayanagar

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon57 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
1610+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Varthur Road

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon75 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
91+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon105 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
6016+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Mysore

  • IconMysore, India
  • Icon9 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
1837+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Salem

  • IconSalem, India
  • Icon18 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
847+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon91 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
180+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Vijayawada

  • Iconvijayawada, India
  • Icon21 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
150+ Rating

Cytecare Hospital

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon48 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
2882+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Whitefield

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon105 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
534+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon57 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
537+ Rating

Manipal Hospitals Broadway

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon72 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
10171+ Rating

Miot Hospital Chennai

  • IconChennai, India
  • Icon250 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
5734+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Siliguri

  • IconSiliguri, India
  • Icon30 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
89+ Rating

Manipal Hospital EM Bypass

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon94 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
89+ Rating

Manipal Hospital EM Bypass

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon94 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
65+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon129 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
12320+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon78 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
185+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Ranchi

  • IconRanchi, India
  • Icon41 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
872+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Millers Road

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon89 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
418+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Hebbal

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon150 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
1161+ Rating

Artemis Hospital Gurgaon

  • IconGurgaon, India
  • Icon141 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
694+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Kharadi

  • IconPune, India
  • Icon44 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
156+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Patiala

  • IconPatiala, India
  • Icon52 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
20+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar

  • IconBhubaneshwar, India
  • Icon55 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
5740+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon205 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Aditya Nair, a 28-year-old software engineer,...

Aditya Nair, a 28-year-old software engineer, first noticed a small, painless lump on the left side of his neck while shaving three months ago. Initially dismissing it as a swollen gland from a recent cold, he grew concerned when it remained unchanged. A persistent, dry cough developed, unrelated to any illness. His primary care physician, after a course of antibiotics failed to shrink the lump, referred him to an oncologist. The oncologist, noting the firm, fixed nature of the lymph node, recommended a Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) to rule out lymphoma. During the procedure, Aditya was anxious but found the local anesthetic sting to be the worst part; the actual needle passes felt like odd, deep pressure. The procedure was quick, lasting only 10 minutes. Post-procedure, he had minor bruising and tenderness for a couple of days. The cytology report revealed reactive hyperplasia, a benign inflammatory condition, not cancer. Emotionally, Aditya had been consumed by silent dread, imagining the worst-case scenarios for his future career and family. The benign result brought immense relief and a profound appreciation for his health, though he now carries a heightened awareness of his body.

Oncologists for Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology

Explore experienced oncologists who regularly perform fine needle aspiration cytology and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Itisha Chaudhary
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. G. AVINASH REDDY
  • 7 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Preeti jain
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 950
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Mohit Saxena
  • 13 Years Experience
  • Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1250
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prasad Narayanan
  • 19 Years Experience
  • Medical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Kannada, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Cytecare Hospital, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Harish P
  • 12 Years Experience
  • Bone Marrow Transplant Specialist
Speaks: English, Kannada, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Cytecare Hospital, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shruthi Shivdas
  • 13 Years Experience
  • Gynecologic Oncologist
Speaks: English, Kannada, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Cytecare Hospital, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Mohanraj
  • 13 Years Experience
  • Bone Marrow Transplant Specialist
Speaks: English, Kannada, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Cytecare Hospital, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Deepak Kumar Shukla
  • 19 Years Experience
  • Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jaipur, Jaipur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vijay Yadav
  • 19 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jaipur, Jaipur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. T Surendra Reddy
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Radiation Oncologist
Speaks: English, Kannada, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Cytecare Hospital, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. T Surendra Reddy
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Radiation Oncologist
Speaks: English, Kannada, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Cytecare Hospital, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Lalit Sharma
  • 16 Years Experience
  • Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jaipur, Jaipur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Aruj
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ranjan Singh
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. APOORVA REDDY
  • 35 Years Experience
  • Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shivam Vatsal Agarwal
  • 31 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Metro Hospital,, Faridabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Siddharth S. Sood
  • 28 Years Experience
  • Medical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Metro Hospital,, Faridabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. V Srinivasan
  • 26 Years Experience
  • Radiation Oncologist
Speaks: English, Tamil, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai

OPD-desk synced • Updated