Breast Cancer Surgery Cost in Chennai
Most breast cancer operations at Unittas cost between ₹60,000 and ₹2,50,000. You get a written estimate after your surgeon reviews your reports.
A breast cancer diagnosis brings many questions, and cost is often one of the first. This page explains the main types of surgery, what each usually costs at Unittas Hospital, and what can change the final bill. Surgery is done at our OMR branch by Dr Vigneshwar T, a surgical oncologist trained at JIPMER.
Types of Breast Cancer Surgery
Surgery removes the cancer and checks whether it has reached the lymph nodes in the armpit. The right operation depends on the size and position of the tumour, its stage, your breast size and your own wishes.
Lumpectomy
Also called breast-conserving surgery. The surgeon removes the tumour with a rim of healthy tissue and keeps the rest of the breast.
Simple (total) mastectomy
The whole breast is removed. It suits larger tumours, cancer in more than one area, or patients who prefer it.
Modified radical mastectomy (MRM)
The breast and the lymph nodes in the armpit are removed together. It is used when the nodes are known to contain cancer.
Lymph node surgery
A sentinel node biopsy removes only the first one to three nodes for testing. If they contain cancer, more nodes may be removed (axillary dissection).
Oncoplastic surgery and reconstruction
The breast is reshaped or rebuilt. This can be done in the same operation or at a later date.
Breast Cancer Surgery Cost at Unittas Hospital
| Type of surgery | Approximate cost | Usual hospital stay |
|---|---|---|
| Lumpectomy with lymph node surgery | ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000 | 3 to 5 days |
| Simple (total) mastectomy | ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,00,000 | 3 to 5 days |
| Modified radical mastectomy | ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 | 5 to 7 days |
| Oncoplastic surgery or reconstruction | Quoted after planning | Depends on the technique |
The lower figure is for a general ward. A private room, extra tests or a longer stay raise it. The package usually covers your room, the operation theatre, surgeon and anaesthetist fees, and medicines during your stay. These figures are for surgery only. If you need chemotherapy, radiation or hormone therapy afterwards, it is planned with our oncology partners and billed separately.
What Changes the Final Cost?
- The operation itself. A lumpectomy is shorter than a mastectomy, so it usually costs less.
- Lymph nodes. A sentinel node biopsy is simpler than removing all the armpit nodes.
- Reconstruction. Rebuilding the breast adds theatre time and cost.
- Room category. General ward, shared room and private room are priced differently.
- Length of stay. Diabetes, heart problems or slow wound healing can mean a few extra days.
- Your insurance. Room-rent limits and co-payments in your policy change what you pay yourself.
Your Breast Surgery Journey
Review
We go through your biopsy, mammogram and scan reports.
Plan
Your surgeon explains the operation and gives you a written estimate.
Surgery
Done under general anaesthesia. Most operations take 1 to 3 hours.
Recovery
You walk the same or next day and learn how to care for the wound and drain.
Next steps
The tissue report guides whether you need further treatment.
Your Cancer Surgeon
Dr Vigneshwar T
Dr Vigneshwar performs lumpectomy, mastectomy and sentinel node biopsy, and uses oncoplastic techniques to keep the breast's shape where possible. He explains each option and its cost before you decide.
- Lumpectomy
- Simple mastectomy
- Modified radical mastectomy
- Sentinel node biopsy
- Oncoplastic surgery
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Keep the wound clean and dry, and follow the activity limits you are given.
- Do the arm and shoulder exercises every day. They prevent stiffness.
- Call us if you notice fever, growing swelling, redness or fluid leaking from the wound.
- Keep every follow-up visit and finish any further treatment you are advised.
- Ask for help when you need it. Feeling low after surgery is common, and support makes a difference.
Want to understand the full treatment plan, not just surgery? Read about our breast cancer treatment in Chennai.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breast cancer surgery cost in Chennai?
At Unittas, most patients pay between ₹60,000 and ₹2,50,000 for the operation. The amount depends on the type of surgery and your room. Reconstruction costs extra. You get a written estimate after your consultation.
Is a lumpectomy cheaper than a mastectomy?
Usually yes, because the operation is shorter and the stay is brief. However, a lumpectomy is normally followed by radiation, which adds to the total cost of treatment.
Are tests before surgery included in the estimate?
Usually not. Blood tests, scans and the fitness check before surgery are billed separately. We list them in your estimate so there are no surprises.
Why do surgery estimates differ between hospitals?
Hospitals differ in room charges, surgeon fees and what their package includes. When you compare, check whether the quote covers the room, medicines and lymph node surgery.
How long does breast cancer surgery take?
Most operations take 1 to 3 hours. Lymph node surgery or reconstruction makes it longer.
Can reconstruction be done in the same operation?
Often yes. It can also be done later. Your surgeon will discuss both options while planning your surgery.
How soon can I go back to work?
Most people with desk jobs return in 2 to 4 weeks. Physical work usually needs longer. Full recovery after a mastectomy takes about 4 to 6 weeks.
Will I be able to move my arm normally?
Some stiffness is common at first. Daily exercises and physiotherapy usually bring back full movement over a few weeks.
What are the risks of breast cancer surgery?
Risks include bleeding, infection, fluid build-up (seroma) and numbness near the scar. Your team watches for these and treats them early.
Is breast lump removal the same as breast cancer surgery?
No. Removing a non-cancerous lump is a smaller operation. See our breast lump removal cost page for that procedure.
Does health insurance cover breast cancer surgery?
Most policies do when the surgery is medically needed. Our insurance desk helps with pre-authorisation and cashless claims.
Related Cancer Care Pages
Get Your Breast Surgery Estimate
Share your biopsy and scan reports with our surgical oncologist at Unittas OMR. You will get a clear plan and a written cost estimate.