Breast cancer surgery is an operation to remove a cancer (tumour) from the breast. There are two main types. Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) removes the lump and some healthy tissue around it. A mastectomy removes the whole breast. The surgeon usually also checks some lymph nodes in the armpit. Some people have breast reconstruction at the same time or later. Surgery is often one part of a plan that can also include chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Before the hospital sends a quote, its cancer team reviews your biopsy report, scans and past treatment. You can ask whether a tumour board will review your case. The surgeon can explain the likely benefits and risks for you. The treating doctor decides which operation is right for you.
- Typical hospital stay
- 1–2 days
- Total time in India
- 2–4 weeks
- Fit to fly
- Your surgeon decides when it is safe for you to fly home. Ask them what you need for the flight.
Indicative Costs at Partner Hospitals
Each range is supplied by the named hospital. Your actual quote depends on your medical reports and choices such as implants.
No hospital has confirmed a current range for this treatment. Ask us for written quotes.
A hospital quote usually includes the operation, your stay and medicines in hospital. It usually does not include flights, visa fees, a hotel after discharge, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, extra nights, complications or extra tests. Ask the hospital to list both in writing. Ask too whether tests on the tissue removed are included.
Your Journey, Step by Step
- Before you travel, we send you a secure link for your biopsy report, scans and other medical reports.
- Two or three accredited hospitals review your reports and send written quotes. You choose one.
- The hospital you choose sends a letter for your medical visa. You book flights and a place to stay.
- When you arrive, the cancer team examines you, may do more tests and explains your treatment plan.
- You have the operation and usually stay in hospital for 1 to 2 days.
- After you leave hospital, you stay nearby for check-ups, wound care and the results of tests on the tissue removed.
- Before you fly, the team gives you a discharge summary and a written plan for any further treatment.
- At home, you share your discharge summary with your local doctor and ask where any further treatment will happen.
Recovery, Step by Step
Ask the hospital what recovery support it offers, including physiotherapy and follow-up care after you leave.
Questions Families Ask About This Treatment
How Long Will I Stay in Hospital, and in India?
Many people stay in hospital for 1 to 2 days, and some go home the same day. Plan to stay in India for about 2 to 4 weeks, for tests, surgery and check-ups. If you need chemotherapy or radiotherapy after surgery, your treatment can take months. Your cancer team will explain your plan.
Can I Have Surgery in India and Further Treatment at Home?
Some people need more treatment after surgery, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Your cancer team decides whether you need it. Ask whether you can have that treatment at home. Ask the hospital to send a written treatment plan to your doctor at home.
What Is a Tumour Board, and Should I Ask for One?
A tumour board is a meeting of different cancer doctors, such as surgeons, oncologists and radiologists. They review your case together. You can ask the hospital whether a tumour board will review your reports before it sends your plan.
Which Reports Should I Get Ready?
Get your biopsy report, including any receptor test results. Add your mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, CT or PET scan reports, and a list of your medicines. The hospital will tell you if it needs more. We will send you a secure link, so please do not send reports on WhatsApp.
Why Might My Final Bill Be Different from the Quote?
A quote is based on your reports. The plan can change after the surgeon examines you in India, for example to a different operation. Extra nights, extra tests or a complication can also change the cost. Ask the hospital to explain any change in writing before it charges you.
When Can I Fly Home?
When your surgeon says you are fit to fly. Ask your surgeon what you need for the flight. Carry your discharge summary in your hand luggage.
Can a Family Member Come with Me and Stay with Me?
Ask the hospital whether a family member can stay in your room, and whether their meals cost extra. Under Government of India e-Visa rules, up to 2 family members can get e-Medical Attendant visas with your e-Medical visa. Source: indianvisaonline.gov.in, checked on 15 September 2026.
What Should I Ask the Hospital About My Quote?
Ask these questions. Is the quote for removing the lump or the whole breast? Does it include checking lymph nodes and testing the tissue removed? Is breast reconstruction included, if you want it? How many nights, and in what type of room? Are the surgeon and anaesthetist fees included? What happens to the cost if there is a complication? How long is the quote valid?
This page is general information, not medical advice. Whether a treatment is right for you is decided by the treating doctor after reviewing your reports.
Page reviewed: 15 September 2026