If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, finding the right specialist is likely to be high on your list. The UK has many experienced urological surgeons, and a structured search will help you find a prostate cancer surgeon suited to your situation. This practical guide sets out the steps, from understanding your referral rights to building a shortlist you can act on.
Step one: know the type of specialist you need
Prostate cancer surgery is carried out by consultant urologists with additional training in urological cancer. Not every urologist has the same depth of experience with this operation, so look for someone who treats prostate cancer as a major part of their practice. Our overview of prostate cancer explains the condition and why the type of specialist matters.
Step two: understand your referral rights
Your GP or local urology team will usually suggest a specialist, but you do not have to accept the first name offered. Within the NHS in England, you generally have the right to choose which hospital you are referred to for your first appointment. Private treatment gives you a direct choice of consultant, and many NHS surgeons also see patients privately.
Our article on the private surgery pathway explains how that route works, including what costs usually cover.
Step three: use trusted sources to build a list
Several reliable resources can help you find a prostate cancer surgeon:
- The British Association of Urological Surgeons lets you search for consultant urologists by subspecialty and location.
- Hospital consultant profiles usually describe training, special interests and the procedures each surgeon performs.
- Prostate Cancer UK offers a specialist nurse helpline that can help you understand where to turn.
- Your GP or clinical nurse specialist may know which local surgeons focus on prostate cancer.
Step four: narrow the list down
Once you have several names, check each against the same basic criteria. Is the surgeon on the specialist register for urology? Do they focus on prostate cancer? Do they offer the technique you are considering, such as robotic surgery? Registration can be confirmed on the General Medical Council's online register, and hospital profiles usually list training and special interests.
Aim for a shortlist of two or three surgeons. That is enough to compare without becoming overwhelming.
Step five: prepare for each consultation
Before each appointment, gather your PSA history, MRI report and biopsy results. Write down your questions and consider bringing a family member or friend to take notes. Our list of questions to ask your surgeon covers diagnosis, treatment options, experience and follow-up.
During the consultation, notice whether you feel listened to and whether all reasonable options are discussed, including active surveillance and radiotherapy.
Step six: look at the wider team
A surgeon always works within a team. Ask about the multidisciplinary team that will review your case, access to specialist nurses and the rehabilitation support available after surgery. A centre that invests in aftercare usually takes the whole patient experience seriously.
Step seven: give yourself time
For most men with localised prostate cancer, there is time to research and reflect before treatment. If you feel rushed or unsure after a consultation, it is reasonable to seek another opinion. Taking a few extra weeks to find the right specialist is rarely a problem, and your clinical team can tell you whether a short delay is safe in your case.
Starting your search
Finding a prostate cancer surgeon is manageable when you know where to look and what to ask. Use trusted sources, compare like with like and trust your own sense of confidence.
You can read about Professor Dasgupta's background and experience, or contact the clinic to arrange a consultation.