Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women around the world. Yet, access to timely, effective, and affordable treatment remains a challenge for many, particularly in regions where medical infrastructure is limited or healthcare costs are prohibitively high. This has led an increasing number of patients to explore treatment abroad, with India emerging as a leading destination for high-quality and cost-effective cancer care. Among the top institutions in the country, Max Hospitals has earned a strong reputation for its comprehensive breast cancer treatment. With a network of advanced facilities across major cities, Max offers expert-led care, modern medical technology, and a patient-centred approach, making it a trusted choice for international patients.

Types of Breast Cancer Treated at Max Hospitals, India

Max Hospitals provides treatment for a wide range of breast cancer types, including but not limited to the following:

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

Invasive ductal carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer. It begins in the milk ducts and spreads to nearby breast tissue. Over time, it may reach other parts of the body through the blood or lymph system. IDC may cause a lump in the breast or changes in breast shape. Treatment usually includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other options based on the stage.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

This type starts in the lobules, the parts of the breast that produce milk. It can spread to nearby tissues and, in some cases, to other organs. Invasive lobular carcinoma may be harder to detect in early stages, as it does not always form a lump. Imaging and biopsy are important for diagnosis. Treatment may involve surgery, hormone therapy, and other medicines.

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

DCIS is a non-invasive form of breast cancer. It means that abnormal cells are found inside the milk ducts, but they have not yet spread to nearby tissue. DCIS is usually detected through a routine mammogram and is considered an early form of breast cancer. Treatment may include surgery to remove the affected area and, in some cases, radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer is a less common but more aggressive type. It does not have oestrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, or HER2 protein, which means hormone therapy and certain targeted medicines are not effective. This type often grows and spreads faster than other forms. Treatment relies mainly on chemotherapy, and ongoing research continues to explore new approaches.

HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

This type of breast cancer is linked to high levels of a protein called HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2), which helps cancer cells grow quickly. HER2-positive cancers tend to be more aggressive but can respond well to specific targeted treatments. Along with surgery and chemotherapy, medicines that block HER2 may be used as part of the treatment plan.

Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer

These cancers grow in response to hormones such as oestrogen or progesterone. Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer is often treated with hormone-blocking medicines to slow down or stop the cancer from growing. Surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy may also be used depending on the stage and spread of the disease.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and fast-growing form. It causes redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often without a clear lump. The skin may look thick or dimpled. This type usually spreads quickly, so early and aggressive treatment is important. A combination of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation is often recommended.

Paget’s Disease of the Breast

Paget’s disease affects the skin of the nipple and the surrounding area. It may cause itching, redness, flaking, or discharge from the nipple. Though rare, it is usually linked to an underlying tumour in the breast. Treatment often involves surgery and may be followed by other therapies depending on the presence of cancer in nearby tissue.

Comprehensive Breast Cancer Treatment Procedures & Services Offered at Max Hospitals, India

Max Hospitals provides a wide range of treatment options for breast cancer. These treatments are combined with support services to improve the outcome and quality of life for patients.

Surgery

Surgery is often the first step in treating breast cancer. The main aim is to remove the tumour and check if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. The following surgical procedures are commonly used:

• Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery): Only the tumour and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue are removed. This is usually followed by radiation to reduce the chance of cancer returning.
• Mastectomy: The entire breast is removed. This may be done if the tumour is large, there are multiple tumours, or in cases of certain genetic risks.
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy: A few lymph nodes are removed to check for cancer spread. If cancer is found, more lymph nodes may need to be removed.
• Axillary lymph node dissection: Several lymph nodes from under the arm are removed when cancer has already spread to this area.
• Breast reconstruction: Surgery to rebuild the breast shape after mastectomy may be done at the same time as cancer surgery or later, based on the treatment plan.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It may be given in different ways:

• Neoadjuvant chemotherapy: Given before surgery to shrink the tumour and make it easier to remove.
• Adjuvant chemotherapy: Given after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer returning.

Chemotherapy is usually given through a vein, but some medicines may also be taken as tablets. The course may last several weeks or months and is given in cycles with breaks in between.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses strong energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It is usually given after lumpectomy or in some cases after mastectomy to lower the chance of cancer returning in the breast or chest area.

The most common type is external beam radiation, where a machine directs radiation to the affected area. The treatment is painless and usually given five days a week over several weeks.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is used for breast cancers that grow in response to hormones like oestrogen or progesterone. It blocks the effects of these hormones or lowers their levels in the body.

This treatment may be given:

• Before surgery to shrink the tumour
• After surgery to prevent the cancer from coming back
• For several years to reduce any risks of cancer development in the future

Hormone therapy is usually given as daily tablets, but sometimes injections are used as well.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy attacks specific proteins or genes that help cancer grow. It causes less damage to normal cells than chemotherapy. For example:

• HER2-targeted therapy is used for cancers with high levels of the HER2 protein.
• Other targeted drugs are used based on genetic test results and tumour markers.
• These medicines may be given through a vein or as tablets, often along with chemotherapy.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system find and destroy cancer cells. It is mostly used for triple-negative breast cancer that cannot be treated with hormone or HER2-targeted therapy.

Immunotherapy may be used with chemotherapy to increase its effect. It is given through a vein and may cause fewer side effects than some other treatments.

Genetic Testing and Counselling

Some patients may have a higher risk of breast cancer due to inherited genes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Genetic testing is offered when:

• There is a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer
• The cancer is diagnosed at a young age
• There are multiple cases of cancer in the family
• If a genetic change is found, family members may also be advised to get tested. Counselling is provided before and after the test to help understand the results and options.

Supportive Services During Treatment

Managing breast cancer involves more than just treating the disease. Max Hospitals offers several support services to help patients cope better during and after treatment:

• Counselling: Psychological support is available to help manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges during treatment.
• Nutritional guidance: Proper nutrition helps improve strength, energy, and healing. Dietitians help plan meals based on treatment side effects and individual needs.
• Pain and symptom control: Special care is given to manage pain, nausea, fatigue, and other symptoms caused by treatment.
• Rehabilitation services: These include physiotherapy and post-surgery care to improve arm movement, reduce swelling (lymphoedema), and restore overall physical function.

Support Services for International Patients

Max Hospitals offers a wide range of support services to make the entire treatment journey easier for international patients. These services begin before arrival in India and continue through treatment, discharge, and even after returning home. The aim is to ensure that patients from abroad receive clear information, practical help, and smooth coordination throughout their stay.

Help with Medical Planning Before Arrival

Before travelling to India, patients can share their medical reports through email or online platforms. Senior cancer specialists at Max Hospitals review these documents and offer their medical opinion along with treatment recommendations. Based on the diagnosis, the hospital also provides an estimated cost of treatment and expected duration of stay. This allows patients and their families to plan their trip and understand the process before they travel.

Assistance with Travel and Visa

The hospital supports international patients by issuing a visa invitation letter, which helps in applying for a medical visa for both the patient and any accompanying family members. The team also guides patients through the required travel documents. Once travel is confirmed, airport pick-up and drop services are arranged to make arrival and departure smooth and stress-free.

Language and Interpretation Support

Patients coming from different countries often speak different languages, and Max Hospitals addresses this by offering interpreter services. Trained interpreters help explain medical information and hospital processes in languages such as Arabic, Russian, French, and Bengali. In some cases, key documents may also be translated to help patients understand their condition and treatment better.

Help with Stay and Local Arrangements

For those travelling from abroad, finding suitable accommodation can be a challenge. The hospital team helps arrange nearby guest houses, hotels, or serviced apartments based on patient needs. Transportation between the hospital and the place of stay is also supported. Families or attendants accompanying the patient receive help with basic local arrangements such as food, travel within the city, and other practical needs.

Dedicated International Patient Coordinators

Each international patient is assigned a coordinator who supports them throughout their time at the hospital. The coordinator assists with appointment scheduling, explains procedures in a clear manner, and acts as a point of contact across different hospital departments. This ensures that patients receive consistent support without feeling overwhelmed by the process or the new environment.

Support After Treatment Ends

Once treatment is completed and the patient returns to their home country, Max Hospitals continues to offer support through online follow-up consultations. Patients can access their medical records and reports digitally. Any questions related to recovery, medicines, or follow-up steps are addressed through virtual appointments. In some cases, coordination with the patient’s local doctor may also be arranged to ensure continuity of care.

Why Max Hospitals Is Among the Best Breast Cancer Treatment Hospitals in India

Max Hospitals is recognised for offering high-quality breast cancer treatment backed by strong medical expertise, modern infrastructure, and a patient-focused approach. Several key factors set Max Hospitals apart as a trusted choice for patients coming from other countries.

Experienced Team of Breast Cancer Specialists

The breast cancer team at Max Hospitals includes highly trained medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast reconstruction surgeons. Many of these specialists have trained and worked in leading international centres and have years of experience in treating different types of breast cancer. A team-based approach is followed, which allows each case to be reviewed from multiple medical angles before finalising a treatment plan.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Treatment

Each breast cancer case is discussed in a tumour board meeting, where doctors from different specialities review scans, pathology reports, and clinical details. This joint discussion helps in choosing the most effective treatment path—be it surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of all three. This approach leads to better coordination, fewer delays, and treatment decisions that are supported by opinions from the experts.

Range of Treatment Options Under One Roof

Max Hospitals offers the full range of breast cancer treatments, from breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy to targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and reconstructive surgery. Access to these services in a single location reduces the need for multiple referrals or hospital transfers, helping international patients receive complete care in one place.

Advanced Diagnostic and Imaging Support

Timely and accurate diagnosis plays a major role in cancer care. Max Hospitals is equipped with modern diagnostic tools such as digital mammography, ultrasound, breast MRI, and image-guided biopsy. In addition to this, facilities for PET-CT, histopathology, and hormone receptor testing help doctors decide on the most suitable treatment for each patient.

Focus on Breast Conservation and Recovery

Whenever possible, Max Hospitals focuses on breast-conserving surgery, which removes the cancer without removing the entire breast. In cases where a mastectomy is needed, options for breast reconstruction are offered. The goal is to not only treat the cancer but also help patients return to their normal lives with improved physical and emotional well-being.

High Standards of Safety and Infection Control

Hospitals under the Max network follow strict safety protocols and international infection control standards. Operation theatres are equipped with modern technology and advanced air purification systems. Each hospital maintains quality checks and follows clinical pathways to ensure consistency and reliability in care.

Dedicated International Patient Services

Patients from other countries are supported at every stage by a team that handles visas, appointments, interpreters, and travel logistics. These services reduce confusion and delays and allow patients to focus on their treatment without added stress. Support continues even after discharge through follow-up care provided online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the breast cancer treatment process usually take at Max Hospitals?

The duration of treatment depends on the stage and type of breast cancer. Surgery may require a hospital stay of a few days, followed by recovery. Chemotherapy or radiation therapy may continue over several weeks. A treatment plan is shared after initial evaluation, giving a clear idea of how long the patient may need to stay in India.

Can the treatment plan change after arriving in India?

Yes, the initial treatment plan is based on the medical reports shared before travel. Once the patient arrives, further tests such as scans or biopsies may be advised. If results differ from earlier findings, the treatment plan is adjusted accordingly to ensure the most suitable approach is followed.

Is treatment suitable for elderly patients or those with other health problems?

Yes, patients of all age groups, including elderly, are treated at Max Hospitals. If the patient has existing health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, the medical team assesses the risks and makes necessary adjustments to the treatment plan to ensure safety.

Are some Max Hospitals more specialised in breast cancer care than others?

Several Max Hospitals across cities including Delhi, Gurugram, and Mohali have dedicated cancer centres with strong experience in breast cancer treatment. The international patient team usually recommends the hospital best suited to the patient’s needs based on medical requirements and logistics.

Can a second opinion be taken before travelling to India?

Yes, Max Hospitals offers online consultations and second opinions based on medical records. This service helps patients understand the possible treatment options and costs before making any travel decisions.

Is international health insurance accepted at Max Hospitals?

In many cases, international insurance can be used, depending on the patient’s policy and provider. The hospital team guides patients through the process and assists with documentation for claims or direct billing if applicable.

What kind of preparation is needed before starting chemotherapy or surgery?

Before beginning treatment, a detailed medical review is done. The patient may be asked to undergo blood tests, heart function tests, or imaging scans. Clear instructions are given regarding fasting before surgery, managing ongoing medications, and what to expect during treatment.

How is follow-up care handled after the patient returns home?

After treatment, follow-up care continues through online consultations. Reports and test results can be shared digitally. The treating doctor advises on future tests, medications, and signs to monitor. In some cases, coordination with a local doctor in the patient’s home country is also possible.

Can family members accompany the patient during treatment?

Yes, family members or attendants can accompany the patient and stay nearby. They are allowed to visit the patient in the hospital, and the international patient team helps arrange accommodation and transport during the stay.

Are female breast cancer specialists available at Max Hospitals in India?

Yes, Max Hospitals has several female specialists who focus on breast cancer care. These include breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiologists. If a female doctor is preferred, the request can be made during the appointment process, and the hospital team will make arrangements accordingly.

What is the typical cost of breast cancer surgery in India?

The cost of breast cancer surgery at Max Hospitals depends on several factors, such as the type of surgery, hospital location, and the overall treatment plan. A detailed estimate is shared once the medical team reviews the patient’s case and confirms the appropriate course of treatment. The international patient services team also helps with billing-related queries and pre-arrival planning.

Review

Reviewed by Dr. Gautam Goyal, Associate Director - Medical Oncology, Cancer Care / Oncology, Haematology (Hematology), Head & Neck Oncology, Paediatric (Ped) Oncology, on 26 June 2025.