But when two Delhi women, one aged 57 and the other in her late 60s, began rebuilding their lives after breast cancer, it was their children who encouraged them to focus on themselves. New Delhi: For years, they had put their families first. One was persuaded by her two college-going daughters; the other, a widow, by her two sons. Both ultimately chose breast reconstruction, challenging the perception that such decisions are meant only for younger women.
This time my daughters reminded me that my well-being is important too,” said the 57-year-old cancer survivor, requesting anonymity. A 2021 study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open , based on 10,299 Indian women, found that while 76.5% preferred breast reconstruction, only 48.8% were aware of the option. A 2024 study of 192 patients in central India found that none underwent reconstruction during 24 months of follow-up, while a 2026 survey found that only 16% of 148 women said they would consider it.
Breast reconstruction does not increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence and does not affect its detection,” said Dr Shikha Gupta, senior consultant, plastic and reconstructive surgery, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, where both women underwent the procedure. “It’s a reminder that surviving cancer is one milestone, and having the freedom to shape life afterwards matters, too,” Dr Gupta said. “Mothers spend a lot of their lives thinking about their children. Their experiences highlight a broader gap in breast cancer care in India. Subsequent studies have continued to point to low adoption. For many women, options after breast cancer remain poorly understood. Others face financial constraints, limited access to specialised care or the belief that reconstruction is unnecessary at their age. “Reconstructive surgery is changing what women can expect after breast cancer treatment.