Breast Cancer Surgery in Delhi, India

Breast cancer surgery is a treatment procedure used to remove cancer from the breast. It is often the first line of treatment and may be combined with other therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy for better outcomes. The main aim of the surgery is to get rid of the tumour, stop cancer from spreading, and lower the chances of it coming back.

The type of surgery recommended for breast cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the size and location of the tumour, and individual patient needs. Common surgical options include:

• Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery): Removes only the tumour and a small margin of surrounding tissue, preserving most of the breast.
• Mastectomy: Involves removing the entire breast. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes and chest tissues may also be removed.
• Breast Reconstruction: Rebuilds the shape and appearance of the breast after mastectomy or lumpectomy, often using implants or tissue from another part of the body.
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy / Axillary Lymph Node Dissection: These procedures determine whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and, if necessary, remove them.

Like any major surgical procedure, breast cancer surgery carries certain risks. These may vary depending on the type of surgery, the patient’s overall health, and other such factors. Common risks include:

• Infection: Surgical sites may become infected, though strict sterilisation and care protocols minimise this risk.
• Bleeding or Hematoma: Some bleeding may occur during or after surgery, occasionally leading to a collection of blood (hematoma).
• Pain or Discomfort: Post-operative pain is common but usually manageable with prescribed medications.
• Changes in Breast Shape or Sensation: Surgery may alter the appearance of the breast or cause numbness, especially if lymph nodes are removed.
• Scarring: All surgeries leave some scar tissue, though techniques aim to minimise visible scarring.
• Lymphedema: Swelling in the arm or hand can occur if lymph nodes are removed.

Despite these risks, breast cancer surgery is generally safe, and your surgical team will take every measure to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery.

Breast cancer can present in different ways, and recognising early warning signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area: Often the first noticeable sign.
• Changes in breast size or shape: Any sudden or unusual change should be evaluated.
• Skin changes: Dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaling on the breast or nipple.
• Nipple changes: Inversion, discharge (especially blood-stained), or pain.
• Persistent pain: Discomfort in a specific area of the breast or chest wall.
• Swelling or enlargement of lymph nodes: Particularly in the armpit area.

Not all lumps or changes indicate cancer, but any persistent or unusual signs should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early detection significantly improves treatment options and outcomes.

Understanding what typically happens before, during, and after breast cancer surgery can help patients and their families feel more informed and prepared.

Preparation (Days Before the Surgery)

In the days leading up to surgery, patients usually undergo blood tests, imaging, and other evaluations to ensure they are ready for the procedure. Surgeons provide instructions regarding medications, fasting, and other pre-operative steps. Many patients also arrange support at home, as assistance with daily activities may be needed during the first few days of recovery.

What to Expect (On the Day of the Surgery)

On the day of surgery, patients are admitted to the hospital, where the surgical team reviews their medical history and prepares them for the procedure. Anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort, and the planned surgery, lumpectomy, mastectomy, or reconstruction—is performed while vital signs are carefully monitored. After surgery, patients are moved to a recovery area for observation until stable.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

After surgery, patients follow guidelines for wound care, medications, and activity restrictions. Follow-up appointments help the surgical team monitor healing and address any concerns. Gentle physical activity may be recommended to aid recovery and prevent complications such as swelling in the arm (lymphedema). Emotional support and counselling can also play an important role in coping with physical and emotional changes after surgery.

For patients undergoing breast cancer surgery, comprehensive care and expert guidance make all the difference. At Max Hospitals, here’s what sets our services apart:

• Expert Surgeons: Our highly experienced oncologists and breast surgeons combine precision, skill, and compassion to ensure the best possible outcomes.
• Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art surgical tools and modern infrastructure for safe and effective treatment.
• International Safety Standards: Whether it is breast cancer surgery or any other procedure, we follow internationally benchmarked protocols to prioritise patient safety.
• Comprehensive Care: From pre-surgery planning to post-operative care and rehabilitation, every step is tailored to individual patient needs.
• Trusted Centre: Max Hospitals is recognised as one of India’s leading centres for breast cancer surgery, serving patients from across the country and abroad.

How is the surgical approach decided for each patient?

The surgical plan is tailored based on the patient’s age, health, cancer stage, tumour location, and personal preferences, often discussed during pre-operative consultations.

How is breast cancer diagnosed? 

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of tests, including a clinical breast exam, mammogram, ultrasound, and often a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and analyzed to confirm the presence of cancer.

What are the different stages of breast cancer? 

Breast cancer is staged from 0 to IV based on the size of the tumor, whether it has spread to the lymph nodes, and if it has spread to other parts of the body (metastasis). The stage helps determine the best course of treatment.

Can breast cancer surgery be combined with other treatments?

Yes, surgery is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Is minimally invasive surgery available for breast cancer at Max Hospitals?

Where appropriate, minimally invasive techniques may be used to reduce tissue trauma, shorten recovery time, and minimise scarring.

How long does recovery typically take after breast cancer surgery?

Recovery varies by surgery type and patient health, but most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, with gradual return to full activity over a few months.

Are lymph nodes always removed during surgery?

Not always. Lymph node removal depends on whether cancer has spread. Procedures like sentinel lymph node biopsy help decide if further removal is necessary.

Can breast cancer be prevented? 

While breast cancer can't be fully prevented, the risk can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and getting regular screenings as recommended by a doctor.

What are the main risk factors for breast cancer?

Risk factors include a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), older age, dense breast tissue, and certain lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity.

Do men get breast cancer? 

Yes, breast cancer can occur in men, although it is much less common. The symptoms and treatments are similar to those for women.

What is the role of genetic testing? 

Genetic testing can identify inherited mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, that significantly increase the risk of breast and other cancers. This information helps patients and their doctors make informed decisions about preventative care and treatment.

What happens after breast cancer treatment is finished? 

After active treatment, patients enter the survivorship phase. This involves regular follow-up appointments, monitoring for any recurrence, and managing any long-term side effects from treatment.

Will I lose my hair with chemotherapy? 

Hair loss is a common side effect of many chemotherapy drugs, but not all. The care team will provide specific information about potential side effects and ways to manage them.

What is breast reconstruction surgery? 

Breast reconstruction is a surgical option to rebuild the shape of the breast after a mastectomy. It can be done at the time of the mastectomy or at a later date.

How does breast cancer surgery affect future pregnancies? 

The effects depend on the specific treatment plan. While surgery itself may not affect fertility, chemotherapy and other treatments can. It's important to discuss fertility preservation options with your doctor before treatment begins.

Can breast cancer be prevented? 

While breast cancer can't be fully prevented, the risk can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and getting regular screenings as recommended by a doctor.

What are the main risk factors for breast cancer? 

Risk factors include a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), older age, dense breast tissue, and certain lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity.

Do men get breast cancer? 

Yes, breast cancer can occur in men, although it is much less common. The symptoms and treatments are similar to those for women.

What is the role of genetic testing? 

Genetic testing can identify inherited mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, that significantly increase the risk of breast and other cancers. This information helps patients and their doctors make informed decisions about preventative care and treatment.

What happens after breast cancer treatment is finished? 

After active treatment, patients enter the survivorship phase. This involves regular follow-up appointments, monitoring for any recurrence, and managing any long-term side effects from treatment.

Will I lose my hair with chemotherapy? 

Hair loss is a common side effect of many chemotherapy drugs, but not all. The care team will provide specific information about potential side effects and ways to manage them.

What is breast reconstruction surgery? 

Breast reconstruction is a surgical option to rebuild the shape of the breast after a mastectomy. It can be done at the time of the mastectomy or at a later date.

How does breast cancer surgery affect future pregnancies? 

The effects depend on the specific treatment plan. While surgery itself may not affect fertility, chemotherapy and other treatments can. It's important to discuss fertility preservation options with your doctor before treatment begins.

How long does breast cancer surgery take? 

The duration of breast cancer surgery depends on the type of procedure. A lumpectomy may take 1-2 hours, while a mastectomy with reconstruction can take several hours. Your surgeon can give you a more precise estimate.

Reviewed by Dr. Shefali Sardana, Associate Director – Medical Oncology, Cancer Care / Oncology, Uro-Oncology, Breast Cancer, Thoracic Oncology, Gynecologic Oncology, Gastrointestinal & Hepatobiliary Oncology on 02 February 2026.