Top 15 Heart Surgeons & Cardiac Hospitals in India (2026 Guide)

India has emerged as one of the world’s leading destinations for advanced cardiac care, combining cutting-edge technology, internationally trained specialists, and highly cost-effective treatment options. From minimally invasive procedures to complex open-heart surgeries, the country offers world-class outcomes comparable to top global healthcare systems. Renowned institutions such as All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Fortis Healthcare have played a pivotal role in elevating India’s reputation in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery.

At the heart of this excellence are some of the most skilled and experienced cardiac surgeons in the world, many of whom have trained or practiced in leading medical centers across the US, UK, and Europe. These experts specialize in a wide range of procedures, including coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve replacement, heart transplants, and pediatric cardiac surgery. Hospitals across major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore are equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced diagnostic tools, and dedicated cardiac ICUs.

This 2026 guide is designed to help patients and caregivers navigating the best options available. Whether you are seeking routine cardiac care or highly specialized surgery, this curated list highlights trusted names known for clinical excellence, patient safety, and successful outcome.

In this ultimate guide, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top 15 heart surgeons and hospitals in India based on:

• International reputation
• Years of experience
• Patient reviews
• Specializations
• Cost-effectiveness
• Medical tourism support

Why India for Cardiac Surgery?

India has emerged as a global hub for cardiac care, offering world-class medical facilities and highly skilled heart surgeons. Whether you’re seeking treatment for coronary artery disease, valve disorders, or congenital heart defects, the country boasts a roster of esteemed cardiac specialists.

✅ Cost-effective: Up to 70% cheaper than the US/UK
✅ Top-notch Infrastructure: NABH & JCI-accredited hospitals
✅ Experienced Surgeons: Many trained in the US/UK
✅ Minimal Wait Time
✅ Medical Tourism Services

Top 10 Cardiac Surgeons in India (2026 updated)

Top 10 Hospitals for Heart Surgery in India

What is the Cost of Heart Surgery in India (2026)

Top 10 Cardiac Surgeons in India (2026) highlighting their expertise, affiliations, and contributions to the field.

1. Dr. Naresh Trehan – Medanta The Medicity, Gurgaon

Specialization: Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery

Highlights:

• Founder and Chairman of Medanta – The Medicity, a premier multi-specialty hospital.
• Over 50,000 successful open-heart surgeries.
• Renowned for pioneering minimally invasive cardiac procedures in India.

Why Choose Dr. Trehan? Dr. Trehan’s commitment to excellence and innovation has positioned him as a leading figure in cardiac surgery. His patient-centric approach and adoption of advanced technologies ensure optimal outcomes.

2. Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty – Narayana Health, Bangalore

Specialization: Pediatric and Adult Cardiac Surgery

Highlights:

• Founder of Narayana Health, a network of hospitals offering affordable healthcare.
• Performed over 15,000 heart surgeries.
• Advocate for cost-effective cardiac care without compromising quality.

Why Choose Dr. Shetty? Dr. Shetty’s vision of accessible healthcare has transformed cardiac treatment in India. His expertise in complex procedures, especially in children, is unparalleled.

3. Dr. Ramakanta Panda – Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai

Specialization: Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)

Highlights:

• Padma Bhushan awardee for contributions to medicine.
• Known for high success rates in redo bypass surgeries.
• Instrumental in treating high-profile cases with precision.

Why Choose Dr. Panda? With meticulous surgical techniques and a focus on patient safety, Dr. Panda has earned a reputation for excellence in complex cardiac surgeries.

4. Dr. Ashok Seth – Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi

Specialization: Interventional Cardiology

Highlights:

• Chairman of Fortis Escorts Heart Institute.
• Performed over 50,000 angiograms and 20,000 angioplasties.
• Introduced several new interventional techniques in India.

Why Choose Dr. Seth? Dr. Seth’s pioneering work in interventional cardiology offers patients less invasive treatment options with quicker recovery times.

5. Dr. KM Cherian – Frontier Lifeline Hospital, Chennai

Specialization: Pediatric Cardiac Surgery

Highlights:

• First Indian surgeon to perform a heart transplant.
• Established Frontier Lifeline Hospital, focusing on pediatric cardiac care.
• Recognized for contributions to heart-lung transplantation.

Why Choose Dr. Cherian? Dr. Cherian’s vast experience and dedication to pediatric cardiac surgery make him a trusted name for treating congenital heart defects.

6. Dr. Sandeep Attawar – Gleneagles Global Hospitals, Chennai

Specialization: Heart and Lung Transplantation

Highlights:

• Director of the Heart and Lung Transplant Program.
• Performed numerous successful heart and lung transplants.
• Expertise in managing end-stage heart failure cases.

Why Choose Dr. Attawar? Patients seeking transplant options find hope under Dr. Attawar’s care, known for his surgical precision and compassionate approach.

7. Dr. Z.S. Meharwal – Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi

Specialization: Cardiothoracic Surgery

Highlights:

• Over 25 years of experience in cardiac surgery.
• Specializes in high-risk and redo cardiac surgeries.
• Integral part of the team at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute.

Why Choose Dr. Meharwal? Dr. Meharwal’s expertise in handling complex cardiac cases ensures patients receive comprehensive and effective treatment.

8. Dr. Ajay Kaul – BLK Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi

Specialization: Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

Highlights:

• Over 15,000 cardiac surgeries performed.
• Expertise in beating heart surgeries and valve replacements.
• Known for adopting advanced surgical techniques.

Why Choose Dr. Kaul? Patients benefit from Dr. Kaul’s focus on minimally invasive procedures, leading to reduced recovery times and improved outcomes.

9. Dr. Balbir Singh – Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi

Specialization: Electrophysiology and Cardiac Rhythm Disorders

Highlights:

• Chairman of Cardiology at Max Healthcare.
• Pioneer in electrophysiology studies and radiofrequency ablation.
• Extensive experience in managing arrhythmias.

Why Choose Dr. Singh? For patients with complex heart rhythm disorders, Dr. Singh offers cutting-edge treatments backed by years of specialized experience.

10. Dr. M.R. Girinath – Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Specialization: Cardiothoracic Surgery

Highlights:

• Performed over 40,000 open-heart surgeries.
• Key figure in establishing cardiac surgery programs in India.
• Mentor to numerous upcoming cardiac surgeons.

Why Choose Dr. Girinath? Dr. Girinath’s vast surgical experience and dedication to teaching make him a cornerstone in India’s cardiac care landscape.

Choosing the Right Heart Surgeon: Factors to Consider

When selecting a heart surgeon, consider the following:

• Experience and Specialization: Ensure the surgeon has extensive experience in the specific procedure you require.
• Hospital Affiliation: Opt for surgeons associated with reputed hospitals equipped with advanced facilities.
• Patient Reviews and Outcomes: Research patient testimonials and success rates.
• Accessibility: Consider the location and ease of follow-up consultations.

International Patient Services heart treatment

Several hospitals offer complete medical tourism packages including:

• Medical visa assistance
• Airport pick & drop
• Translator services
• Accommodation arrangements
• Local SIM cards & food customization
• Post-op rehabilitation & vacation tours

Conclusion

India stands at the forefront of affordable and world-class cardiac surgery. Whether you seek advanced interventional procedures or complex bypass surgeries, the country’s hospitals and surgeons offer international standards with a personalized touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Useful Links

International Patient Services – Learn about medical visa assistance and services available for international patients.

Hospitals in Delhi – Explore more about the top hospitals in Delhi for specialized treatments.

Consult Our Doctors – Meet experienced doctors at top hospitals for personalized consultations.

Read the the blog post to understand – how to get medical visa for India: A complete Guide (2026)