Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer affecting women globally. Early detection and treatment are crucial for a positive outcome. Breast cancer surgery is often the first line of defense, offering both curative and palliative benefits. This comprehensive guide delves into the different types of breast cancer surgery, explores the symptoms and causes of breast cancer, and provides insights into the associated costs.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease that occurs when breast cells grow out of control and form tumors. Tumors can be cancerous or noncancerous, and cancerous tumors can spread to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer can start in one or both breasts, and can be invasive or non-invasive. Invasive breast cancer spreads into surrounding tissues and/or distant organs, while non-invasive breast cancer does not go beyond the milk ducts or lobules in the breast.
The type of breast cancer depends on which cells in the breast turn into cancer. Most breast cancers are carcinomas, and the most common type of breast cancer that begins in the ducts is known as invasive ductal carcinoma.Treatments for breast cancer may include: Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy, Endocrine therapy, Immunotherapy.
Breast cancer surgery is a medical procedure that removes cancerous tissue from the breast. It’s the most common first-line treatment for breast cancer. The specific type of surgery you undergo depends on various factors, including the size and location of the tumor, and your overall health.
What are the different types of Breast Cancer Surgery?
The type of breast cancer surgery recommended depends on various factors like tumor size, stage, and individual preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the two main categories:
- Lumpectomy (Breast Conserving Surgery): This procedure removes the cancerous tumor and a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it. It’s an option for early-stage breast cancer and often followed by radiation therapy.
- Mastectomy: This surgery involves removing the entire breast, with some variations depending on the extent of the cancer:
- Simple mastectomy: Removes all breast tissue but preserves the chest wall muscles.
- Modified radical mastectomy: Removes the breast tissue, some lymph nodes in the armpit, and chest wall muscles.
- Radical mastectomy: Removes the entire breast, extensive lymph nodes, and chest wall muscles (rarely performed today).
- Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Preserves most of the overlying skin.
- Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Preserves the nipple and areola along with most skin.
Understanding the Costs of Breast Cancer Surgery
The cost of breast cancer surgery can vary significantly depending on several factors:
- Type of surgery: Mastectomy is generally more expensive than lumpectomy.
- Facility fees: Hospital or surgical center charges.
- Surgeon’s fees: The experience and expertise of the surgeon can impact the cost.
- Anesthesia fees: Cost of anesthesia used during surgery.
- Pathology fees: Lab tests to analyze removed tissue.
- Reconstruction surgery (optional): Cost varies depending on the type of reconstruction chosen.
Breast Cancer Surgery Treatment Costs in Delhi
The cost of breast cancer treatment in Delhi varies depending on the stage of the disease, the type of treatment, and the hospital. As an estimate, patients may expect to pay between INR 2 lakhs and INR 20 lakhs.
| Surgery Type | Estimated Cost Range (INR) |
| Lumpectomy | ₹7,00,000 – ₹14,00,000 |
| Mastectomy (Simple) | ₹14,00,000 – ₹21,00,000 |
| Mastectomy (Skin-Sparing) | ₹17,50,000 – ₹24,50,000 |
| Mastectomy (Double) | ₹28,00,000 – ₹35,00,000+ |
Breast Cancer Surgery Costs in India
The cost of breast cancer surgery in India can vary depending on the type of surgery and the hospital and city:
| City | Lumpectomy | Mastectomy (Simple) | Mastectomy (Skin-Sparing) | Mastectomy (Double) |
| Delhi | ₹2,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹7,00,000 | ₹4,00,000 – ₹8,00,000 | ₹6,00,000 – ₹12,00,000+ |
| Mumbai | ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹4,00,000 – ₹8,00,000 | ₹4,50,000 – ₹9,00,000 | ₹7,00,000 – ₹14,00,000+ |
| Kolkata | ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,00,000 | ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹7,00,000 | ₹5,00,000 – ₹10,00,000+ |
| Chennai | ₹1,80,000 – ₹4,50,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹7,00,000 | ₹3,50,000 – ₹8,00,000 | ₹6,00,000 – ₹11,00,000+ |
| Bangalore | ₹2,20,000 – ₹5,50,000 | ₹3,50,000 – ₹8,00,000 | ₹4,00,000 – ₹9,00,000 | ₹7,00,000 – ₹13,00,000+ |
Medical insurance typically covers a significant portion of the cost. However, it’s crucial to understand your specific policy and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Symptoms and Causes of Breast Cancer
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
While a lump in the breast is a common symptom, breast cancer can present in various ways. Be aware of these signs and schedule a consultation with a doctor if you experience any:
Causes of Breast Cancer
The exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown, but certain risk factors increase the chances of developing it:
- Family history of breast cancer
- Genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes)
- Age (risk increases with age)
- Dense breast tissue
- Hormonal factors (early menstruation, late menopause, hormone replacement therapy)
- Lifestyle factors (obesity, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption)
Taking Charge of Your Health
Early detection is critical for successful breast cancer treatment. Regularly perform breast self-exams and schedule mammograms as recommended by your doctor. If you notice any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.
Nectar Health can connect you with experienced breast cancer specialists who can guide you through the diagnosis and treatment process. Schedule a consultation with a doctor today and take control of your health journey.
