No man wants to hear the words “prostate cancer” or even that they need surgery to cure other prostate
issues. However, knowing what to expect and how to manage aftercare can help alleviate many concerns.
Below are some things to expect from prostate surgery.
Surgery Is Typically the Only Treatment
Every case is different and you won’t be told until after the pathology report is back if you will need further treatment. However, for most men, surgery is the only treatment they will need, and follow-up treatments are not scheduled for the majority of cases.
Expect to Stay One Night
It may unnerve you to find out the hospital will likely send you home the next day. It is surgery, after all. However, prostate surgery has grown more routine and less risky so you will probably only need to stay one night.
You Will Have a Catheter for Up to 10 Days
This may be the most disappointing news, but you will retain the catheter for a week to 10 days. Your doctor will likely remove it at the doctor’s office, although some people remove it themselves at home. Ask your doctor for instructions if that is your plan.
Plan to Take Extended Time From Work
Most men who have this surgery take three to four weeks from work to recover. The most important thing is to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least a month. Those who have manual jobs may need to take more time off to avoid heavy activity. Those who work from home can probably start back to work sooner, as long as they take a lot of breaks.
Conclusion
Prostate surgery doesn’t have to be scary and most do well afterward recovering from home. They use over-the-counter pain relievers and get back into life after about a month. Knowing what it will be like will help you plan and not be surprised or stressed.
