Cost and insurance for preventive mastectomy in India

The cost of a preventive mastectomy in India varies widely, and no single figure fits everyone. The total depends mostly on whether one or both breasts are removed, whether the skin or nipple is kept, and above all whether reconstruction is done, because reconstruction often costs more than the mastectomy itself. A mastectomy without reconstruction is usually the least expensive option. Implant reconstruction adds the implants, longer theatre time and sometimes a second stage. Flap reconstruction adds a longer operation, microsurgery and a longer stay. Other parts of the bill include genetic counselling and testing, scans and blood tests before surgery, the hospital room category and length of stay, anaesthesia, medicines and follow-up, as well as later refinement procedures. Insurance is the part that surprises many families. Because preventive surgery is done before cancer develops, some health insurance policies may question whether it is medically necessary. Many insurers do consider it when there is clear documentation of high inherited risk, such as a confirmed BRCA1 or BRCA2 result and a specialist recommendation, but terms differ greatly between policies. Government health schemes are generally built around treating diagnosed disease, so cover for purely preventive surgery may be limited. Getting written estimates and checking cover in writing before you book surgery helps you avoid unexpected bills.

Reconstruction drives the cost

Whether and how the breasts are rebuilt makes the biggest difference to the total.

Insurance cover is not automatic

Preventive surgery may need strong documentation of high risk to be approved.

Ask for everything in writing

Itemised estimates and pre-authorisation reduce surprises.

Starting the insurance process early gives you time to respond if the insurer asks questions.

Read your policy wording

Look for sections on preventive procedures, reconstruction, cosmetic exclusions and genetic conditions.

Gather supporting documents

Your genetic test report, genetic counselling letter, family history summary and the surgeon's recommendation all help.

Request pre-authorisation in writing

Ask the hospital insurance desk to submit the request before you confirm a surgery date.

Ask about reconstruction separately

Confirm whether reconstruction and later refinements are included or treated differently.

Appeal if refused

If a claim is declined, ask for the reason in writing, and consider an appeal with extra medical letters or the insurance ombudsman.