Radical Prostatectomy Recovery Tips and Info

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men. As a result, our offices recommend regular prostate screenings and exams, as early detection provides the best treatment options. Treatments for prostate cancer vary by case, severity, and patient. In some cases, prostate removal, known as a prostatectomy, will be the recommended treatment. As a urology office in Miami, Florida, we have experience in a variety of prostate cancer treatments and wanted to provide information on radical prostatectomy and the recovery process. 

What Is Radical Prostatectomy?

Radical prostatectomy is a procedure that removes a cancerous prostate, along with some surrounding tissue. Radical prostatectomy has a high effectiveness rate in preventing a return of cancerous cells and is an effective treatment measure in fighting prostate cancer. A radical prostatectomy is one of many urological services for treating prostate cancer provided by our South Florida urology office. 

The Prostate Removal Recovery Period

Recovery time after prostate cancer removal will vary by patient and case. Our experience with this procedure has shown that patients can typically return to most normal activities within a month to six weeks. Strenuous exertion and physical activity often take a few weeks longer, depending on the individual. 

Quality of life after a prostate removal returns to normal fairly quickly. Most patients return home after a day or two following their procedure. Patients typically will use a catheter for the first week following their procedure. There typically is not much pain or discomfort following the procedure. As a precautionary measure, your specialist may prescribe you antibiotics and pain medication. Walking and light physical activity can return within the first week and will be easier once the catheter is removed. After a month of recovery, you will be able to return to most normal daily activities with confirmation from your specialist. 

Potential Side Effects of a Radical Prostatectomy

Typically if patients experience any side effects from this procedure, they experience one of two possible non-life-threatening scenarios. A radical prostatectomy may cause a decline in erectile function, which normally gets better with time. The various nerves in the area can take up to a year to fully recover, which is why some patients may benefit from erectile dysfunction treatment until their nerves fully recover. As an erectile dysfunction expert in South Florida, our office will work with you after surgery to mitigate any possible sexual side effects following your procedure. 

The second possible scenario is urinary incontinence which may arise as a side effect following your procedure. This, too, will most likely pass after a few months to a year of recovery. Urinary incontinence may be treated with medication and exercise. 

Scheduling a Radical Prostatectomy 

With more than 20 years of experience in urological services, Dr. Edward Gheiler has experience and success in treating prostate cancer and other urological issues in both men and women. With specialties including the Penuma penis implant, kidney stone treatment, pelvic floor reconstruction, and more, our team works to return you to your normal quality of life as quickly and safely as possible. 

You should feel comfortable with the urologist performing your radical prostatectomy. Contact us today for a consultation to see if radical prostatectomy is the right solution for you.

Related Readings:

When Should You Visit a Urologist for Your Prostate?

What Is a Prostate Exam?