Why do so many men opt for a prostatectomy?
A prostatectomy is a surgical operation to remove the entire prostate gland.
The thought of having cancer in your body can be very distressing. Surgery to remove the prostate is often the best chance of getting cured and living cancer-free.
- The prostate gland’s only significant function is to make the enzymes needed for fertility. So, in theory, removing it in later life should only improve someone’s quality of life, given that some prostates cause bothersome symptoms.
- With a talented surgeon, the risk of life-changing severe incontinence is very low.
- A bilateral nerve-sparing treatment can often help preserve your erectile function over the long term.
- Urinary symptoms often greatly improve.
- You avoid unwelcome long-term side-effects from radiotherapy, such as feeling that you need to pee or poo more often (urinary and faecal frequency and urgency).
Recovery is usually smooth
It’s normal to feel weak, a bit sore and have a low mood in the early days after surgery. However, most patients recover quickly and, for example, can drive after just two weeks and get back to work/ life as usual within six weeks.
- If you have minimally invasive keyhole (laparoscopic) robotic surgery, you’ll likely be able to go home the day after your procedure.
- With open surgery, you’ll stay in hospital for three to four days. However, for most patients, getting home quickly is not as important as having a surgeon who can deliver good outcomes and avoid long-term side effects.
Ready to take the next step?
We’re here to help
If you have worrying symptoms you’d like to get checked, need a second opinion or just want a free chat with one of our nurse specialists, get in touch. Our friendly team will take care of the rest.