Surgical Oncology
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Surgical Oncology at Onco-Lifecare Cancer Centre, Chiplun
Skilled Cancer Surgery with Compassion, Precision & Results You Can Trust
Surgical Oncology remains one of the most powerful tools in cancer treatment, especially when diagnosed early. At Onco-Lifecare Cancer Centre, Chiplun, we take immense pride in delivering world-class cancer surgeries backed by cutting-edge infrastructure and an exceptional clinical success rate exceeding 96%. Our surgical team is committed to excellence and patient recovery at every stage.
What Is Surgical Oncology & Why It Matters
Surgical Oncology is the branch of oncology that involves removing cancerous tumours and tissues from the body. In many types of cancer, especially solid tumours, surgery can be curative, preventive, or palliative depending on the stage and location of the disease.
At our Chiplun centre, patients receive care from highly experienced cancer surgeons, trained at prestigious institutes like Tata Memorial Hospital and Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute. They combine years of focused oncology experience with a dedication to safety, accuracy, and compassionate patient support.
Common Goals of Cancer Surgery
- To completely remove the tumour and surrounding cancer-affected tissues
- To diagnose or stage cancer through biopsies or exploratory surgery
- To reduce symptoms caused by advanced tumours (such as pressure, obstruction, or bleeding)
- To assist or enhance other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation by removing tumour burden
Surgery may be performed as the primary treatment, or it may be combined with other modalities (pre- or post-surgery), including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or radiation, depending on the patient’s unique treatment plan.
Organ-Preserving Cancer Surgeries
At Onco-Life Chiplun, our surgical philosophy prioritizes organ preservation and functional recovery. Whenever feasible, we remove only the tumour and preserve the organ’s functionality—ensuring faster healing, minimal long-term impact, and a better quality of life for the patient.
Post-surgical rehabilitation includes multidisciplinary care with support from dieticians, physiotherapists, wound care specialists, and counsellors to help patients return to normal life sooner.
Reconstructive (Plastic) Surgery for Cancer Patients
Cancer surgeries involving the breast, face, jaw, or limbs can sometimes affect a person’s appearance or bodily function. Our dedicated plastic and reconstructive surgeons step in to restore:
- Cosmetic appearance
- Speech and movement functions
- Emotional confidence and body image
Common procedures include breast reconstruction after mastectomy, facial and oral cavity reconstruction, and free flap surgeries after head and neck cancer treatment.
State-of-the-Art Surgical Infrastructure at Chiplun Centre
- 2 Fully Equipped Major Operation Theatres & 1 Minor OT
- Advanced HEPA-filtered airflow systems for infection prevention
- Strict OT protocols and international sterilization standards
- 24×7 ICU & HDU support for high-risk cases
- In-house diagnostics and lab support for faster results
Why Patients Trust Us
Onco-Lifecare Cancer Centre, Chiplun is more than a hospital—it is a place where clinical expertise meets human empathy. We offer patients:
- One-stop care from diagnosis to surgery to follow-up
- Personalized surgical plans tailored to your cancer type and stage
- Experienced and friendly surgical staff who explain every step
- Post-op care with minimum complications and faster recovery
Your Journey. Our Priority.
Whether it’s a minor tumour removal or a complex organ surgery, you deserve the best care close to home. At Onco-Lifecare Cancer Centre, Chiplun, we ensure safe, affordable, and effective surgical cancer care with the warmth and support that every patient and their family needs.
Let us be your partner in your fight against cancer—with expertise you can trust and compassion you can feel.
Most Popular Questions
Satara – Surgical Oncology: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a Surgical Oncologist?
A surgical oncologist is a cancer specialist who uses surgery to diagnose, treat, or manage cancer. Their main role is to remove tumors and nearby tissues that may have cancer cells. They also perform biopsies to find out if a lump is cancerous and how advanced it is.
2. When do you need cancer surgery?
Surgery may be needed:
- To prevent cancer (if you’re at high risk).
- To diagnose cancer (by removing a piece for testing).
- To know how far cancer has spread.
- To treat cancer by removing tumors.
- To relieve symptoms (like pain or blockage).
- To reconstruct body parts after surgery (like breast reconstruction).
3. What are the types of cancer surgeries?
- Curative Surgery: Removes all cancer if it's in one place.
- Debulking Surgery: Removes part of a large tumor to make other treatments more effective.
- Palliative Surgery: Helps relieve pain or symptoms when cancer cannot be cured.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Restores appearance or function after tumor removal.
4. How does surgery help with cancer treatment?
Surgery can:
- Completely remove cancer if detected early.
- Help doctors see how far cancer has spread.
- Be combined with chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments.
- Improve quality of life by relieving pain or pressure from tumors.
5. Is surgery always done alone or with other treatments?
Cancer surgery is often used along with other treatments like:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
Sometimes, surgery comes before other treatments (adjuvant) or after them (neoadjuvant) based on your case.
6. Is surgery effective for cancer?
Yes, especially if the cancer is caught early. Removing the tumor early increases the chance of cure. For advanced cancer, surgery may still help reduce symptoms or improve the outcome with other treatments.
7. Is surgery safe? Are there any risks?
Like any surgery, there can be risks such as:
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Swelling
- Slow wound healing
But our surgical teams are highly trained to manage these risks safely.
8. Will I need anesthesia for cancer surgery?
Yes. Most cancer surgeries require anesthesia:
- General anesthesia puts you to sleep.
- Local anesthesia numbs a small area with sedation.
Your doctor and anesthetist will choose the safest option based on your surgery and health.
9. What is the difference between a Surgical Oncologist and a General Surgeon?
Both are qualified surgeons, but a Surgical Oncologist has undergone specialized training in cancer surgeries. They handle complex cancer cases and work as part of a larger oncology team.
10. Should I get surgery right after my cancer diagnosis?
It depends. Your doctor will decide the best time for surgery after evaluating:
- Cancer type and stage
- Your age and health
- Whether other treatments are needed first
But early treatment is always better to stop cancer from growing.
11. Will surgery cause the cancer to spread?
No. This is a common myth. Surgery does not cause cancer to spread. In fact, removing the tumour helps stop it from spreading.
12. Will I need to stay in the hospital after surgery?
Yes, for a few days depending on your procedure and recovery speed. Some smaller surgeries are done as daycare procedures, while major surgeries need 3–7 days or more in the hospital.
13. Can surgery be done for all cancers?
Not always. Surgery is best for solid tumors like breast, colon, lung, or oral cancers. Blood cancers (like leukemia) are usually treated without surgery.
14. How long does it take to recover from cancer surgery?
Recovery depends on the type of surgery and your health. Minor surgeries take a few days, major ones take 2–6 weeks. Your care team will guide you on wound care, diet, and activities.
15. Will I have scars after surgery?
Yes, most surgeries leave scars, but we try to keep them as small and neat as possible. Reconstructive surgery may also help restore appearance after certain procedures.
16. Can I eat normally after surgery?
Yes, but it depends on the surgery area. For example, if surgery is near your mouth or stomach, a special diet may be needed. Your dietitian will guide you.
17. Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?
Sometimes, yes. Especially if the surgery affects movement, swallowing, or breathing. A physiotherapist will help you regain strength and improve your recovery.
18. What if I’m too old or weak for surgery?
Age is not the only factor. We assess your overall health. If you're not fit for surgery, other treatments may be suggested. Your safety is always the top priority.
19. How will I manage pain after surgery?
Pain is managed using medications and supportive care. You’ll receive pain relief during and after surgery to keep you comfortable.
20. Can cancer come back after surgery?
Yes, sometimes. That’s why follow-up care is important. You may need other treatments (like chemo or radiation) to reduce the risk of recurrence.
21. What is reconstructive surgery after cancer?
This surgery helps restore appearance or function after tumor removal — like breast reconstruction after mastectomy or jaw repair after oral cancer surgery.
22. Will I be able to work after cancer surgery?
Yes, most people return to work after recovery. It depends on your job and how major the surgery was. We can help you plan your return.
23. Is cancer surgery covered by insurance?
Yes, most government and private insurance plans cover surgical cancer treatment. Our TPA desk will help you with paperwork and approvals.
24. What if I don’t want surgery? Are there other options?
Yes. Depending on your condition, you may be offered chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy instead. But always talk to your oncologist about risks and benefits.
