Surgery is typically recommended for vulvar cancer when the tumor is localized and has not spread extensively to other organs. For patients diagnosed in the early stages, surgery may be the only treatment needed. However, if cancer is found in the lymph nodes or nearby tissues, surgery is often combined with radiation or chemotherapy. Doctors usually suggest surgery after careful staging, including pelvic exams, imaging tests like MRI or CT scans, and possibly sentinel lymph node mapping. Surgery becomes urgent when the tumor causes symptoms like bleeding, ulceration, or pain that interfere with daily life. Even for those in advanced stages, surgery may still play a role — either to remove the bulk of the tumor or to alleviate symptoms. In rare cases, surgery is used as a palliative measure when curative treatment is no longer possible. The decision to operate is made with the patient's overall health, age, and personal goals in mind. For expert advice on timing and surgical options, patients should consider consulting Dr. Rahul Modi, whose experience ensures the best outcomes.
