Breast Oncology - Pennalam

Home – Breast Oncology

Breast Cancer Care with Expertise and Compassion

Breast cancer usually begins in the cells lining the milk glands and ducts. These cells divide in a controlled way throughout a woman’s reproductive years. Sometimes that process goes wrong and abnormal cells survive and keep multiplying. If left untreated, these cells can spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs or brain.

The good news: when breast cancer is found early, it is highly treatable. Penn Nalam’s breast oncology team offers screening, diagnosis and treatment in one place, so you can focus on getting better.

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Doctors still don’t fully know why some women develop breast cancer and others don’t.
What we do know

About 5–10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited genetic changes.

Around 25% are linked to reproductive and lifestyle factors, such as early first periods, late menopause, late first pregnancy, infertility, hormone replacement therapy and obesity.

Risk models are often built on Western data and may not fit Indian women accurately.

Breast cancer is less common in India than in the West, but rapid changes in lifestyle, diet and fertility patterns mean it is rising. Regular screening is the best protection.

3D Mammography at Penn Nalam

A trusted name in breast imaging, used by centres around the world

Detects breast cancer earlier than conventional 2D imaging

Fast, high-resolution scans with a lower radiation dose

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Breast Oncology Treatments and Procedures in Chennai

The Breast Oncology Department at Penn Nalam provides complete evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for benign and malignant breast conditions. Your care plan is designed around your diagnosis, stage of disease, overall health and personal needs.

Breast Cancer Surgery

Surgery tailored to the type and stage of your cancer, including breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy.

Breast-Conserving Surgery

Removal of the tumour with a margin of healthy tissue, preserving as much of the breast as is medically safe.

Mastectomy Procedures

Removal of breast tissue when medically needed, with the approach chosen to suit your condition and treatment plan.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

A procedure that checks whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, helping guide the next steps in treatment.

Axillary Lymph Node Surgery

Evaluation or removal of underarm lymph
nodes when needed for staging and
treatment.

Breast Biopsy Procedures

Collecting a small tissue sample from a
suspicious lump or area for accurate
diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common signs of breast cancer?

A new lump in the breast or underarm, a change in the size or shape of the breast, nipple discharge, skin changes such as dimpling or redness, or a nipple turning inward.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a clinical breast examination, followed by a mammogram, ultrasound and, if needed, a biopsy. The tests you need depend on your symptoms and findings.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.

Can the breast be saved during surgery?

In many patients, yes. The tumour can be removed while preserving most of the breast. Your doctor will advise whether this is suitable for you.

When should I see a breast specialist?

Whenever you notice a new lump, a lasting change in the breast or nipple, unusual discharge, or anything else that worries you. Don’t wait for pain, because early breast cancer is often painless.