Bullectomy Surgery cost in India
The cost of bullectomy surgery in India generally ranges from $7500 to $11500, which is approximately 6,60,000 to ₹10,10,000 Indian Rupees. The exact cost depends on factors such as the size, number and location of the lung bullae (air-filled sacs), whether video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is used, the hospital facility, the surgeon’s experience, diagnostics needed, and the patient’s overall health status
Cost Range of Bullectomy Surgery cost in India
What is Bullectomy?
A bullectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove large, abnormal air-filled spaces in the lungs called bullae. These bullae develop when the walls between tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs break down, usually due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, or smoking-related lung damage.
When bullae grow too large, they can compress the healthy parts of the lung, making it difficult for the patient to breathe properly. A bullectomy removes these bullae, allowing the remaining healthy lung tissue to expand and function more efficiently.
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Who is an Eligible Candidate for Bullectomy Surgery in India?
Eligibility for bullectomy surgery is determined by the patient’s lung condition, overall health, and severity of symptoms. Below are the main criteria:
1. Confirmed Diagnosis of Bullae
Patient must have large bullae (air-filled sacs) in the lungs confirmed through imaging tests such as chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI.
Typically, bullae should occupy at least 30% or more of one lung to be considered for surgical removal.
2. Symptom Severity
Patients experiencing severe breathlessness (dyspnea), chest pain, or reduced exercise tolerance due to bullae are eligible.
Frequent lung infections or collapsed lung (pneumothorax) caused by bullae also make surgery necessary.
3. Failure of Medical Management
Candidates who do not respond well to standard treatments such as bronchodilators, oxygen therapy, or pulmonary rehabilitation may require surgery.
4. Lung Function Criteria
Patients with preserved lung function in non-affected areas are considered ideal candidates.
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) help determine whether enough healthy lung tissue remains to support breathing after surgery.
5. General Health Condition
Patients should be fit enough to tolerate surgery and anesthesia.
Exclusion applies if the patient has severe heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or very poor lung reserve.
6. Smoking History
Active smokers are usually not eligible. Patients must quit smoking before surgery, as continued smoking reduces the success rate of the procedure.
7. Age & Fitness
- While there is no strict age limit, candidates are usually below 70 years, with overall good health and no severe comorbidities.
Types of Bullectomy Surgery and Cost in India
Type of Bullectomy | Description | Cost in India (USD) |
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) Bullectomy | Minimally invasive procedure using a thoracoscope (camera) and small incisions. Offers faster recovery, less pain, and shorter hospital stay. | $8500 – $11,500 |
Open Chest (Thoracotomy) Bullectomy | Traditional approach involving a larger incision to remove bullae. Used for complex cases or when minimally invasive methods are not suitable. | $7500 – $10,200 |
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Bullectomy Surgery Cost in India Inclusions
First consultation
Treatment as advised
Routine drugs and consumables required during hospitalization
Pre-anesthesia check up and clearance
Hospital stay and meals as per the package
Bullectomy Surgery Cost in India Exclusions
Pre-operative examination and tests
Hotel stay, meals and flights
Extended hospital stay
Post-treatment follow-ups
Treatment for any other underlying medical conditions
Anything not covered in the package
Any complex investigations or drugs
Other Factors Affecting Bullectomy Surgery Cost in India
Type of surgery advised
Choice of location, doctor and hospital
Pre-existing medical history
Type and duration of treatment advised
Common tests done before bullectomy surgery
Category | Tests Included | Approx. Cost (USD) |
Radiology / Imaging | Chest X-Ray, CT Scan (High-Resolution), Echocardiography (2D Echo) | $250 – $300 |
Blood Tests | Complete Blood Count (CBC), Liver & Kidney Function Tests, Coagulation Profile (PT/INR, aPTT), Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Test | $75 – $145 |
Other Tests | Pulmonary Function Test (PFT), ECG (Electrocardiogram), Sputum Culture / Infection Screen, Pre-Anesthesia Evaluation | $150 – $180 |
Why is India preferred by international patients for bullectomy surgery?
India has become a preferred destination for bullectomy surgery because it offers surgical expertise, modern infrastructure, and cost advantages that appeal to international patients. In 2019, about 697,453 foreign patients traveled to India for medical treatment.
Overall, nearly 2 million patients from over 70 countries visit India each year for medical and wellness care.In thoracic and cardiothoracic surgery, India handles a high volume of cases. A national cardiothoracic database recorded 14,769 patient cases across 12 institutions as of 2023. High case volumes give surgeons strong experience in complex lung surgeries such as bullectomy.
Patients in India benefit from advanced diagnostic tools like CT scans, bronchoscopy, and lung function tests. Surgical methods such as VATS and robotic-assisted techniques are widely used. Post-surgery, patients receive pulmonary rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and close monitoring.
The cost of treatment in India is much lower than in Western countries. Patients often save 60–90% on bullectomy surgery compared to the US or Europe. This makes advanced lung surgery affordable without compromising quality.
Waiting times are also much shorter. In many countries, patients wait months for surgery. In India, scheduling is faster, which is critical for patients with severe breathing problems caused by bullae.
India also has a strong medical tourism ecosystem. Patients receive visa support, travel and accommodation assistance, language help, and dedicated coordinators. This makes the journey smooth and stress-free. With skilled surgeons, advanced technology, affordable care, shorter waiting times, and full support services, India is a trusted choice for international patients seeking bullectomy surgery.
