Head and neck cancers, encompassing malignancies of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, salivary glands, and sinonasal region, are among the most complex oncological conditions to treat due to their anatomical intricacies and profound impact on essential functions such as speech, swallowing, and respiration. In India, the burden of these cancers is significant, particularly among men, with oral cancers ranking among the top five most common malignancies. In this challenging arena, Dr. Prateek Varshney has established himself as one of the foremost authorities in surgical oncology, known for delivering outcomes that prioritize both survival and quality of life.
As a leading surgical oncologist in Delhi, Dr. Varshney currently serves as Senior Consultant and Head of Surgical Oncology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, and is also the Director at Cancros Oncology Solutions. With over 22 years of clinical experience and more than 5,000 patients successfully treated, his work is defined by a rare blend of surgical precision, ethical practice, and patient-centered care.
“Head and neck cancers demand a different kind of surgical thinking,” Dr. Varshney explains. “You are not just removing a tumor — you are protecting how a person speaks, eats, breathes, and interacts with the world. Every surgical plan must consider both the disease and the human being behind it.”
Dr. Varshney specializes in advanced resections and complex reconstructions for oral cavity, laryngeal, and oropharyngeal cancers. His techniques include mandibular-preserving surgeries, microvascular free flap reconstruction, and transoral laser microsurgery — all performed with the goal of restoring form and function. These interventions help reduce cosmetic disfigurement and functional limitations, often associated with traditional open surgeries. In high-risk cases involving composite resections, Dr. Varshney employs fibula or radial forearm flaps to reconstruct the jawline and oral lining, allowing patients to regain speech and normal eating habits.
“In head and neck oncology, the margin for error is razor-thin,” he adds. “It’s a region dense with critical structures. Surgical excellence is not optional — it’s the minimum requirement.”
“Minimally invasive approaches, including robotic-assisted and laparoscopic surgeries, are integral to his practice. For select tumors in the oropharynx, thyroid, or deep parapharyngeal spaces, these techniques provide superior visualization, minimal tissue disruption, and faster recovery. “Technology has become an extension of our hands,” says Dr. Varshney. “With robotic systems and high-definition imaging, we’re now operating with unmatched precision — often through tiny incisions that spare the patient from long-term complications.”
Dr. Varshney’s care model is rooted in patient empowerment. His consultations are comprehensive, informative, and collaborative — aimed at ensuring that patients and their families fully understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes. “We believe in giving patients agency over their care. When people understand the ‘why’ behind the treatment, their emotional and psychological resilience improves dramatically.”
One case that illustrates his philosophy involved a young woman with an extensive tongue carcinoma. Conventional wisdom recommended total glossectomy, but after careful evaluation, Dr. Varshney opted for a partial resection with transoral reconstruction. The surgery preserved her ability to speak intelligibly and swallow — a life-altering outcome achieved through nuanced decision-making and surgical skill.
Dr. Varshney’s reputation is a reflection of his empathetic approach and excellent outcomes, Yet, he remains grounded in the mission of raising awareness about early detection. “Too many patients come to us in stage III or IV,” he notes. “Persistent oral ulcers, unexplained throat pain, or voice changes must never be ignored. Early detection is not just about improving survival — it’s about preserving life as patients know it.”
In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Varshney actively contributes to medical literature and regularly presents at national oncology conferences. He is a life member of key professional bodies such as the Indian Association of Surgical Oncology (IASO), Foundation for Head and Neck Oncology (FHNO), and the Association of Surgeons of India (ASI), where he plays a role in shaping surgical guidelines and advancing the field.
“Our duty as oncologists is twofold — to master the science and to honor the story of each patient,” says Dr. Varshney. “When we operate with both skill and empathy, we don’t just treat disease — we help people reclaim their lives.”
For expert consultation, please contact:
📍Dr. Prateek Varshney
📞 +91 9638252931
📧 drprateekonco@gmail.com
🏥AA – 299, Shaheed Udham Singh Marg, AA Block, Poorbi Shalimar Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, 110088
About Dr. Prateek Varshney:
Dr. Prateek Varshney is a renowned surgical oncologist in Delhi with over 22 years of experience in complex cancer surgeries. Specializing in head and neck, gastrointestinal, and breast oncology, he integrates open, laparoscopic, and robotic techniques to provide holistic, function-preserving care. Known for his ethical practice, academic contributions, and patient-first philosophy, Dr. Varshney is a pioneer in precision oncology.
