Does the cost go up if I need reconstruction (flap) surgery?
Yes, the overall oral cancer treatment cost can increase if reconstruction or flap surgery is needed after tumour removal. Flap surgery is often used to rebuild parts of the mouth, tongue, jaw, or other affected areas when a larger portion of tissue needs to be removed during cancer surgery.
The cost depends on the type of flap reconstruction, size and location of the tumour, complexity of the surgery, surgeon and hospital charges, ICU or hospital stay, and additional medicines or tests. Some patients may also require radiation therapy or chemotherapy after surgery, which can further increase the total expense.
Because of these factors, the average cost of oral cancer treatment in India can be higher for patients who need complex reconstruction compared with those who require only a smaller surgical procedure. A detailed treatment plan and cost estimate from the treating cancer and reconstructive surgery team can give a more accurate idea of the expected oral cancer treatment cost.
