Breast Cancer Treatment in Chennai
Most early breast cancers are curable. Your plan is built around the type of cancer you have, not a one-size protocol.
Finding a lump or getting an unexpected mammogram result can be frightening. Quick, well-planned care makes a real difference. At Unittas Hospital, our surgical oncologist confirms the diagnosis and performs your surgery. Our team also arranges any chemotherapy, radiation or hormone therapy you need, from your first visit to full recovery.
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast grow out of control and form a tumour. It is the most common cancer among women in India. Men can get it too, though rarely.
Most breast cancers start in the milk ducts (ductal) or the milk glands (lobular). Tests on the tumour then sort it into groups that respond to different drugs:
- Hormone receptor-positive: fed by oestrogen or progesterone, so it responds to hormone therapy.
- HER2-positive: has too much of a protein called HER2, so it responds to anti-HER2 drugs.
- Triple-negative: has none of these markers and is usually treated with chemotherapy.
Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Early breast cancer often causes no symptoms and is found on screening. See a doctor if you notice:
- A new lump or thick area in the breast or armpit
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
- Dimpled, puckered or red skin
- A nipple that turns inwards, or discharge from it
- Breast or nipple pain that does not go away
A lump is not the only warning sign. Read signs of breast cancer that are not a lump.
How Breast Cancer Is Diagnosed
- Breast examination by the surgeon.
- Mammogram and ultrasound to see the lump clearly. Learn about the mammography test.
- Biopsy to confirm cancer and test its receptors (ER, PR and HER2). Some lumps are first checked with an FNAC test.
- Staging scans such as CT, MRI or PET-CT when needed, to check for spread.
The stage and the receptor results together decide which treatments you need and in what order.
Breast Cancer Treatment at Unittas Hospital
Surgery
Lumpectomy keeps the breast. Mastectomy removes it, with reconstruction now or later. Lymph nodes are checked by sentinel node biopsy or removed if needed. See the breast cancer surgery cost.
Radiation therapy
Usually given after a lumpectomy to destroy any cells left behind. Sometimes used after mastectomy in higher-risk cases.
Chemotherapy
Given before surgery to shrink a large tumour, or after surgery to lower the risk of the cancer returning.
Hormone therapy
Tablets that block oestrogen, for hormone receptor-positive cancers. Usually taken for five to ten years.
Targeted therapy and immunotherapy
Anti-HER2 drugs for HER2-positive cancer. Immunotherapy for some triple-negative or advanced cancers.
Supportive care
Arm exercises with our physiotherapy team, diet advice, pain relief, counselling and fertility advice.
Your Cancer Surgeon
Dr Vigneshwar T
Dr Vigneshwar leads breast cancer surgery at Unittas OMR. He offers breast-conserving surgery as well as mastectomy with reconstruction. He also plans chemotherapy, radiation and hormone therapy with partner oncologists.
- Lumpectomy
- Mastectomy
- Sentinel node biopsy
- Oncoplastic surgery
- Reconstruction
Treatment by Stage of Breast Cancer
| Stage | Usual approach |
|---|---|
| Early (stage 0 to II) | Surgery first, then radiation and drug treatment based on the cancer type. |
| Locally advanced (stage III) | Chemotherapy first to shrink the tumour, then surgery, radiation and further drugs. |
| Spread (stage IV) | Drug treatment is the main approach. Surgery or radiation may ease symptoms. |
Recovery and Life After Treatment
Most people are back to normal activities within a few weeks of surgery. Side effects of chemotherapy or radiation are planned for in advance, so they can be treated early.
After treatment, you will have regular check-ups and a yearly mammogram. Staying active, keeping a healthy weight and limiting alcohol all help your long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can breast cancer be cured?
Many early breast cancers are cured. Even advanced breast cancer can often be controlled for years with modern treatment.
Do I always need a mastectomy?
No. For many women, a lumpectomy followed by radiation works just as well as a mastectomy. Your surgeon will tell you if you are suitable.
How do doctors know which type of breast cancer I have?
The biopsy is tested for hormone receptors (ER and PR) and HER2. These results decide which drugs will work best for you.
Will I need chemotherapy?
Not everyone does. It depends on the stage, the tumour type and your overall risk of the cancer returning.
How long is hormone therapy taken?
Usually for five to ten years, as daily tablets.
How long does radiation treatment last?
After a lumpectomy, a course usually lasts three to six weeks, with sessions on weekdays.
Can treatment affect my fertility?
Some treatments can. If you plan to have children, ask about egg or embryo freezing before treatment starts.
Should I have genetic testing?
It may be advised if close relatives had breast or ovarian cancer, or if you were diagnosed young. The result can guide your treatment and help your family.
Can men get breast cancer?
Yes, though it is rare. Men with a breast lump or nipple change should see a doctor without delay.
What are the side effects of targeted therapy?
They differ from chemotherapy and vary by drug. Your oncologist checks you regularly and manages any side effects.
How often are follow-up visits needed?
Every few months in the first years, then once or twice a year. A mammogram is usually done every year.
Can lifestyle lower the chance of breast cancer returning?
Yes. Staying active, keeping a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and not smoking all help.
My mammogram was normal but I notice a change. What should I do?
See a doctor anyway. A new lump, skin change or nipple change needs checking, even after a normal mammogram.
Related Cancer Care Pages
Talk to Our Breast Cancer Surgeon
Book a consultation at Unittas OMR. Bring your mammogram, biopsy and scan reports, and we will explain your options clearly.