Learn about Tongue Cancer Treatment 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 Tongue Cancer Treatment and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Tongue Cancer Treatment

Tongue cancer treatment performed by a surgical oncologist is a specialized procedure to remove malignant tumors from the tongue. The primary goal is complete excision of the cancer while preserving as much function and appearance as possible. The specific surgery depends on the tumor's size, location, and stage, ranging from a minimally invasive transoral resection for early cancers to more extensive procedures like a partial or total glossectomy for advanced cases. This is often combined with neck dissection to remove affected lymph nodes. Surgical oncologists are experts in performing these precise, complex operations and work as part of a multidisciplinary team, which may include reconstructive surgeons, to plan the best approach for both cancer removal and functional restoration, such as speech and swallowing.

Key Highlights

    Performed by a specialist (surgical oncologist) with expertise in cancer surgery.Aims for complete removal of the cancerous tissue with clear margins.Can be tailored from minimally invasive to comprehensive procedures based on cancer stage.Often part of a multimodal plan, combined with radiation or chemotherapy for better outcomes.Focus on preserving speech, swallowing, and quality of life through precise techniques and reconstruction.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Confirmed diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma or other malignant tumor of the tongue.
  • Early-stage (Stage I or II) tongue cancer where surgery is the primary curative treatment.
  • Locally advanced tongue cancer (Stage III or IV) requiring surgery combined with other therapies.
  • Persistent or recurrent cancer after radiation therapy.
  • A visible lump, non-healing ulcer, or persistent red/white patch on the tongue confirmed as malignant.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive diagnostic workup including biopsy, imaging (CT, MRI, PET scan), and staging.
  • Multidisciplinary team consultation involving surgical, medical, and radiation oncologists, plus a speech therapist and dietitian.
  • Pre-operative dental evaluation and possible dental work to reduce infection risk.
  • Nutritional assessment; a feeding tube may be placed pre-operatively if significant swallowing impairment is expected.
  • Pre-anesthetic check-up, blood tests, and cessation of blood-thinning medications as advised.
  • Detailed counseling about the procedure, potential outcomes, and post-operative rehabilitation.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: Bleeding, infection, and adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Functional risks: Temporary or permanent difficulty with speech (dysarthria) and swallowing (dysphagia).
  • Altered taste sensation or numbness in the tongue and mouth.
  • Risk of fistula formation (an abnormal connection) or wound breakdown.
  • Need for a temporary or permanent tracheostomy if swelling affects the airway.
  • Cosmetic changes to the face and neck, especially if reconstruction or neck dissection is performed.
  • Possible recurrence of cancer.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay for monitoring airway, pain management, and wound care.
  • Initiation of swallowing therapy and speech therapy as soon as medically safe.
  • Nutrition via feeding tube initially, transitioning to soft/pureed foods as swallowing improves.
  • Meticulous oral hygiene protocols to prevent infection.
  • Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing, function, and for surveillance of cancer recurrence.
  • Long-term rehabilitation to optimize speech clarity and swallowing efficiency.
  • Emotional and psychological support to adapt to lifestyle changes.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-14 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 3-6 weeks for initial healing; 6-12 months for full functional adaptation

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering tongue cancer treatment 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 tongue cancer treatment compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 150 Thousand – 800 Thousand 5-14 days ~ 3-6 weeks for initial healing; 6-12 months for full functional adaptation Know More
Turkey TRY 525 Thousand – 2.8 Million 5-14 days ~ 3-6 weeks for initial healing; 6-12 months for full functional adaptation Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Ayaan Chopra, a 58-year-old restaurant owner...

Ayaan Chopra, a 58-year-old restaurant owner and father of three, first noticed a persistent sore on the side of his tongue six months ago. A lifelong smoker and occasional betel nut user, he dismissed it as a canker sore. When it didn't heal and began to cause pain while eating his own spicy dishes, his wife insisted he see a doctor. A biopsy confirmed squamous cell carcinoma. His surgical oncologist, Dr. Mehta, recommended a partial glossectomy (removal of part of the tongue) with a sentinel lymph node biopsy to stage the cancer, explaining it was the best chance to preserve speech and swallowing function while being curative. The surgery lasted four hours. Ayaan's initial recovery in the hospital was difficult; he had a feeding tube and struggled with pain and frustration at not being able to talk clearly. Over six weeks of outpatient speech and swallowing therapy, his function improved remarkably. While his speech has a slight lisp and he avoids the very spiciest foods, he is cancer-free and back managing his restaurant. Emotionally, he moved from denial and fear of losing his livelihood to profound gratitude for his family's support and a new commitment to health, becoming a vocal advocate against tobacco in his community.

Surgical Oncologists for Tongue Cancer Treatment

Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform tongue cancer treatment and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Nitish Ranjan Acharya
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Devesh S. Ballal
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Lakshmanan C.
  • 39 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Manjunath N. M. L.
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated