Mastectomy in India
Mastectomy removes the breast as part of treatment for selected breast cancers or DCIS. The type of mastectomy, lymph-node procedure and whether reconstruction is performed depend on tumour extent, genetics, previous treatment and patient preferences.
At a glance
- Category
- Surgery
- Procedure
- 5 key stages
Indicative only. Your specialist will confirm what applies to you.
What Is Mastectomy?
A mastectomy removes the breast containing cancer or DCIS. Depending on the case, the operation may be a total, skin-sparing, nipple-sparing or modified radical mastectomy. Lymph-node assessment may be performed at the same operation, and reconstruction can be immediate, delayed or not performed.
When Is Mastectomy Considered?
Mastectomy may be considered when breast-conserving surgery is unsuitable, when cancer is extensive or present in multiple areas, after previous chest radiation, when clear margins cannot be achieved with conservation, or based on genetic risk and informed patient preference.
Cancer extent makes breast conservation unsuitable
Large, multicentric or otherwise extensive disease may require removal of the whole breast.
Previous treatment limits further breast radiation
Prior chest or breast radiation can affect whether breast-conserving treatment is appropriate.
Genetic or high-risk considerations
Some patients with harmful inherited mutations or very high future breast-cancer risk may discuss risk-reducing surgery.
How Mastectomy Works
- 1
Surgical planning
The team confirms the mastectomy type, lymph-node plan and reconstruction choice.
- 2
Anaesthesia and incision
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia using an incision tailored to the planned mastectomy.
- 3
Breast removal
Breast tissue is removed according to the planned technique.
- 4
Lymph-node surgery and reconstruction when indicated
Sentinel node biopsy, axillary surgery and immediate reconstruction may be performed in the same operation.
- 5
Drains, pathology and recovery
Drains may be left temporarily; the specimen is reviewed to guide further cancer treatment.
Preparation Before Treatment
Planning should cover tumour extent, lymph-node surgery, reconstruction choices, smoking or nicotine use, anaesthesia fitness and whether chemotherapy or other treatment is needed before surgery.
Review imaging, biopsy and genetics where relevant
These influence the extent of surgery and whether nipple- or skin-sparing surgery is appropriate.
Discuss reconstruction before surgery
Immediate reconstruction requires coordinated planning with the reconstructive team.
Review medical fitness and medicines
Anaesthesia assessment and medication planning are completed before admission.
Technique & Technology
Skin-sparing and nipple-sparing approaches and immediate reconstruction can be considered in selected patients when they are oncologically appropriate.
- 01
Nipple-sparing mastectomy
Preserves the nipple and areola in selected patients when cancer location and anatomy make this safe.
- 02
Immediate reconstruction
Implant-based or tissue-based reconstruction can be performed during the mastectomy in selected patients.
Recovery & What to Expect After Treatment
Recovery depends on the extent of surgery and whether reconstruction is performed. Drains are commonly used temporarily, and shoulder mobility and wound care are important during early recovery.
Risks & Important Considerations
Risks include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, wound-healing problems, numbness, shoulder stiffness, lymphoedema after nodal surgery and reconstruction-related complications when reconstruction is performed.
Important to know
Mastectomy does not always remove the need for other treatment
Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy or radiation may still be required.
Reconstruction is optional
Patients may choose immediate reconstruction, delayed reconstruction, a prosthesis or a flat closure.
Possible risks
Wound and fluid complications
Infection, seroma and delayed wound healing can occur.
Lymphoedema
Risk increases with more extensive lymph-node surgery.
Limitations
More extensive surgery does not automatically improve every outcome
The choice between mastectomy and breast conservation should reflect the cancer and informed patient preferences.
Mastectomy Cost in India
The cost of mastectomy in India varies according to the exact treatment plan, clinical complexity, centre, investigations and any additional care required.
What affects the cost
- Treatment technique and complexity
- Hospital or treatment centre
- Investigations and planning
- Anaesthesia or specialised equipment where required
- Length of stay and monitoring
- Complications or additional treatment
Numeric pricing should be published only after Fabtitude validates the current treatment estimate for the specific procedure and clinical pathway.
Treatment Duration & Stay in India
The operation is completed in one admission, but recovery and pathology review continue after discharge. Additional treatment may include chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy or radiation depending on the final pathology.
Before treatment
Specialist review, required investigations and treatment planning are completed before the procedure or therapy begins.
Treatment and early recovery
The immediate treatment period depends on the exact technique, complexity and whether inpatient monitoring is required.
Follow-up and travel planning
Recovery, pathology or response assessment and fitness for long-distance travel should be reviewed before returning home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mastectomy
Find out whether Mastectomy is right for you
Have your reports reviewed by a specialist before you travel. Suitability can only be confirmed after an individual assessment.