Following a 14-hour surgery for stage two liver cancer, television actress Dipika Kakar is currently recovering in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Her husband, Shoaib Ibrahim, shared a health update with fans, revealing that while she is in some pain, she is stable and doing okay. The surgery, which took place on June 4, 2025, was initially delayed due to Dipika experiencing a bout of flu and pain related to a gall bladder stone.
Shoaib Ibrahim took to social media to express his gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from fans during this challenging time. He apologized for not being able to provide an update sooner, explaining that the surgery was lengthy. He wrote, "Hi everyone, Sorry I couldn't update you last night, it was a long surgery. She was in OT for 14 hrs. But Alhamdulillah, everything went well. Dipi is currently in the ICU. She's in some pain, but she's stable and doing okay. Thank you all dil se (from my heart) for your love, prayers, and support, it truly means a lot. I will update you all once she's out of the ICU."
The diagnosis of liver cancer came after Dipika sought medical attention for persistent upper abdominal pain. Further investigations revealed a "tennis ball-sized tumour" in her liver, which was later confirmed to be malignant. Dipika shared her initial reaction to the diagnosis on Instagram, stating, "As you all are aware, the last few weeks have been quite difficult for us… walking into the hospital for pain in the upper area of my stomach… and then finding out it's a tennis ball-sized tumour in the liver… and then finding out that the tumour is second-stage malignant (cancerous)... it has been one of the most difficult times we have seen (sic)." Despite the difficult news, Dipika remained positive and determined to face the challenges ahead, expressing her faith and gratitude for the support of her family and fans.
News of Dipika’s surgery and recovery has prompted an outpouring of support from fellow celebrities and fans alike. Actress Sambhavna Seth shared that she spoke with Saba Ibrahim, Dipika's sister-in-law, and learned that the family has been going through a lot. She also mentioned that she would wait to visit Dipika until she was home from the hospital to minimize the risk of infection, as advised by doctors following major surgeries.
Medical experts note that a recent flu or respiratory infection, as Dipika experienced, can increase the risk of post-operative lung complications and weaken the immune system, potentially prolonging recovery. They emphasize the importance of ensuring a patient is medically stable before undergoing major operations. Post-operative care typically involves a high-protein, low-fat diet to support tissue repair and liver regeneration, along with regular follow-up appointments and monitoring for any signs of recurrence or complications. Gradual introduction of physical activity and mental health support are also crucial aspects of the recovery process.
