Lung Cancer Treatment in South Korea
About Lung Cancer
Key Highlights
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Personalized treatment plans tailored to the specific type and stage of lung cancer.Access to advanced therapies like immunotherapy and targeted drugs for improved outcomes.Multidisciplinary care involving surgeons, radiologists, and pulmonologists for comprehensive management.Focus on both treating the cancer and managing symptoms to enhance quality of life.Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care to detect any recurrence early.
Who is this surgery for?
- Confirmed diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or small cell lung cancer (SCLC) via biopsy.
- Presence of symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained weight loss with imaging findings.
- Staging of cancer to determine the extent of spread (localized, regional, or metastatic).
- As a curative intent for early-stage cancers or to control disease and relieve symptoms in advanced stages.
- Genetic testing reveals specific mutations (e.g., EGFR, ALK) suitable for targeted therapy.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive diagnostic workup including CT scans, PET scans, and bronchoscopy with biopsy.
- Pulmonary function tests and cardiac evaluation to assess fitness for surgery or certain therapies.
- Review of all current medications; some may need to be paused before treatment.
- Nutritional assessment and counseling to build strength for the treatment process.
- Detailed discussion with the oncologist to understand the treatment plan, goals, and potential side effects.
Risks & possible complications
- Side effects from chemotherapy or radiation, such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and increased infection risk.
- Surgical risks including bleeding, infection, pneumonia, or prolonged air leak.
- Potential for damage to healthy lung tissue or nearby organs during radiation.
- Adverse reactions to immunotherapy or targeted drugs, which can affect the skin, intestines, or other organs.
- General risks of anesthesia during surgical procedures.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Post-surgery, hospitalization is required for monitoring; early mobilization and breathing exercises are encouraged.
- Managing side effects like pain, nausea, and fatigue with prescribed medications and rest.
- Regular follow-up appointments for imaging and blood tests to monitor treatment response and detect recurrence.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation may be recommended to improve lung function and stamina.
- Lifestyle modifications, including smoking cessation, a balanced diet, and gradual return to activities as tolerated.
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Typical hospital stay:
Varies widely (0 days for outpatient chemo to 5-10 days for major surgery)
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Expected recovery time:
Varies by treatment (2-6 weeks post-surgery, ongoing during chemo/radiation cycles)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering lung cancer in South Korea, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in South Korea with oncologist 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 lung cancer. MediFyr helps you compare 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 lung cancer compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | USD 3,780 – USD 47,250 | Varies widely (0 days for outpatient chemo to 5-10 days for major surgery) | ~ Varies by treatment (2-6 weeks post-surgery, ongoing during chemo/radiation cycles) | Know More |
| Thailand | USD 3,840 – USD 56,000 | Varies widely (0 days for outpatient chemo to 5-10 days for major surgery) | ~ Varies by treatment (2-6 weeks post-surgery, ongoing during chemo/radiation cycles) | Know More |
| South Korea | USD 3,840 – USD 56,000 | Varies widely (0 days for outpatient chemo to 5-10 days for major surgery) | ~ Varies by treatment (2-6 weeks post-surgery, ongoing during chemo/radiation cycles) | Know More |
| India | USD 2,182 – USD 27,276 | Varies widely (0 days for outpatient chemo to 5-10 days for major surgery) | ~ Varies by treatment (2-6 weeks post-surgery, ongoing during chemo/radiation cycles) | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 16,124 – USD 201,545 | Varies widely (0 days for outpatient chemo to 5-10 days for major surgery) | ~ Varies by treatment (2-6 weeks post-surgery, ongoing during chemo/radiation cycles) | Know More |
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