A breast cancer diagnosis brings a rush of questions. Most patients and families ask the same thing first: what will the surgery involve, and how will life look afterwards? This guide explains breast cancer surgery in Pune in simple terms. It will help you walk into your consultation prepared and less anxious.

Breast cancer is one of the more treatable cancers when it is found early and managed by the right team. Surgery is usually a central part of that treatment. Understanding it step by step makes the journey easier.

Why surgery is often the first step

For many early breast cancers, surgery removes the tumour and gives the clearest picture of the stage. The tissue removed is examined under a microscope. This report tells the team how big the tumour is, whether the margins are clear, and whether the lymph nodes are involved.

These findings guide the next steps, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy.

In some patients, treatment such as chemotherapy is given before surgery. This is called neoadjuvant therapy. It can shrink a larger tumour and may allow a smaller operation. Your surgical oncologist decides the sequence after reviewing your biopsy, imaging and receptor status.

Tests done before surgery

Before planning surgery, the doctor needs complete information. This usually includes:

• Clinical examination of both breasts and the underarms.
• Mammography and ultrasound. MRI in selected cases.
• Biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
• Receptor testing (ER, PR and HER2), which guides further treatment.
• Staging scans such as CT or PET-CT when the cancer is larger or advanced.
• Blood tests and a general fitness check for anaesthesia.

Bring all your previous reports, scans and discs to the first visit. This avoids repeat tests and speeds up planning.

Types of breast cancer surgery

There is no single operation for everyone. The choice depends on tumour size, location, number of tumours, spread, breast size and your preference.

Breast conserving surgery (lumpectomy)

Only the tumour and a margin of healthy tissue are removed. The rest of the breast is preserved. Radiotherapy is usually given afterwards to lower the chance of the cancer returning.

For many early-stage patients, this offers outcomes comparable to removing the whole breast, provided the criteria are met.

Mastectomy

The whole breast is removed. This may be advised when:

• The tumour is large compared with the breast.
• There are multiple tumours in different areas.
• Radiotherapy is not possible or not preferred.
• The patient chooses it after discussion.
• Genetic risk is high.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy

Cancer can spread to the underarm lymph nodes first. In this procedure, the first one or two nodes that drain the breast are identified and removed. They are tested to see if cancer has spread.

If they are clear, many other nodes can be spared. This lowers the risk of arm swelling.

Axillary lymph node dissection

When cancer has spread to the underarm nodes, more nodes are removed. This helps control the disease and guides further treatment.

Oncoplastic and reconstructive options

Many women worry about appearance after surgery. This is a valid concern, and it should be discussed openly.

• Oncoplastic surgery: The surgeon removes the tumour and reshapes the remaining breast tissue to keep a natural look. It is useful in breast conserving surgery.
• Immediate reconstruction: The breast is rebuilt during the same surgery as the mastectomy. Suitable in selected patients.
• Delayed reconstruction: Done months later, often after radiotherapy is complete.
• Implants or your own tissue: Both options exist. The right one depends on your body and treatment plan.

Ask about reconstruction before surgery, not after. It can affect how the operation is planned.

Breast cancer surgery in Pune: how your surgeon plans it

A surgical oncologist has specialised training in removing cancers safely and completely. Planning includes a review of all your reports, a physical examination and a frank talk about options.

Dr. Rahul Wagh is a Consultant Surgical Oncologist in Baner, Pune. He holds an MCh in Surgical Oncology and a fellowship in advanced laparoscopy and robotic surgery. With over 15 years of experience, he builds a personalised plan for each patient, including breast conservation and oncoplastic techniques where suitable.

The day of surgery

Knowing what happens helps reduce fear.

1. You are asked to fast for several hours before the operation.
2. You meet the anaesthetist and the surgical team.
3. Surgery is done under general anaesthesia, so you will be asleep and feel nothing.
4. Duration depends on the procedure. Your surgeon will give you an estimate.
5. A small drain tube may be placed to collect fluid from the surgical area.
6. You wake up in the recovery area and are shifted to your room.

Hospital stay is usually short. Your surgeon will confirm the expected timeline for your case.

Recovery after breast cancer surgery

Most patients recover steadily. Some practical points:

• Pain is managed with medicines, and most patients find it manageable.
• Drains are removed once the output reduces. You will be taught how to care for them at home.
• Gentle arm and shoulder exercises prevent stiffness. Start only when your surgeon says so.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous work until you are cleared.
• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Report fever, spreading redness, increasing swelling or discharge from the wound.
• Eat a balanced diet with enough protein and fluids.
• Rest, and accept help from family.

Emotional recovery matters as much as physical recovery. It is normal to feel anxious or low. Speak to your doctor and family. Support groups and counselling can help.

What happens after surgery

The pathology report usually comes within about a week or so. Your surgeon will explain it and plan the next step with the oncology team.

Possible further treatments include:

• Radiotherapy after breast conserving surgery or in selected mastectomy cases.
• Chemotherapy for higher-risk cancers.
• Hormone therapy for hormone receptor positive cancers.
• Targeted therapy for HER2 positive cancers.

Regular follow-up visits and yearly imaging help detect any recurrence early.

Questions to ask your surgeon

• Am I suitable for breast conserving surgery?
• Will I need lymph node surgery?
• What are the risks in my case?
• Do I need further treatment after surgery?
• What are my reconstruction options?
• When can I return to work and routine activities?

FAQs

Does every breast cancer patient need a mastectomy? No. Many early-stage patients are suitable for breast conserving surgery. It depends on tumour size, location, spread and patient choice.

Is breast cancer surgery painful? Some discomfort is expected, but it is controlled with medicines. Most patients manage well.

Will I lose my hair after surgery? Surgery itself does not cause hair loss. Some chemotherapy drugs may, if they are needed in your plan.

When can I return to normal activity? Light daily activity resumes in a short time. Strenuous activity needs your surgeon’s approval.

Can reconstruction be done at the same time? In selected patients, yes. This is decided after assessment.

Book a consultation with Dr. Rahul Wagh

• Call or WhatsApp: +91 8956002781
• Manipal Hospital, Baner: OPD 42B1, Oncosciences Dept, Veerbhadra Nagar Rd, Baner-Mahalunge Rd, Baner, Pune 411069
• High Street Square, Baner: 4th Floor, 66, High Street Square, 405, Pancard Club Rd, Baner Gaon, Baner, Pune 411069
• OPD: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Book Appointment

Visit Dr. Rahul Wagh’s clinic in Baner, Pune: get directions to the surgical oncologist’s clinic in Pune.

This article is for general awareness only. It does not replace a medical consultation. Every patient is different, so treatment decisions must be made after examination and review of reports.