Most information about robotic prostatectomy focuses on the operation and the first few weeks of recovery. For many men, though, recovery continues well beyond that. Continence, sexual function, energy and confidence often keep improving for months. This guide looks at the first year after robotic prostatectomy, from the end of the early recovery period to the twelve-month review.
The starting point: six to eight weeks
By six to eight weeks, most men have recovered from the operation itself. The wounds have healed, energy is returning and normal activity, including more strenuous exercise, can usually resume with your team's agreement. Our recovery timeline covers the weeks before this point in detail.
What continues from here is functional recovery, follow-up and adjusting to life after cancer treatment.
Three months
Continence
Many men are dry or using only a light safety pad by around three months. Others still notice leakage, particularly when coughing, lifting or exercising. This is common and usually continues to improve. Keep doing pelvic floor exercises every day; they make a real difference. The NHS explains how to do pelvic floor exercises.
PSA
Your first PSA test after surgery is usually around six to twelve weeks. Once the prostate has been removed, PSA should be very low or undetectable. Our guide to results after surgery explains what the result means.
Six months
Continence
By six months, most men have regained good bladder control. If leakage is still troublesome, ask about a referral to a specialist physiotherapist. Further treatments are available for the small number of men whose leakage persists beyond a year.
Erectile function
Recovery of erections is slower. Some men notice early improvement within a few months, while for others it takes much longer. A rehabilitation plan, which may include tablets, a vacuum device or injections, supports recovery and helps maintain healthy tissue while the nerves heal. Our article on erectile function after surgery explains the options.
Twelve months
By the end of the first year, continence has usually settled. Erectile function may still be improving, and progress can continue into the second year, particularly after nerve-sparing surgery. Professor Dasgupta's SAFE nerve-sparing technique was developed to support this recovery.
PSA tests continue throughout, usually every few months at first and then less often.
Life beyond the physical recovery
Work and activity
Most men are back at work well before the end of the first year. Returning to sport, travel and hobbies helps restore a sense of normality. Regular exercise also helps with weight, mood and energy, all of which support continence and general recovery.
Emotional wellbeing
It is common to feel a mix of relief and worry after treatment, particularly before PSA results. Some men feel low for a time. Talking to your partner, family or specialist nurse can help, and Prostate Cancer UK offers support services and a specialist nurse helpline.
Relationships
Changes to sexual function affect partners too. Open conversations, and including your partner in appointments if you both wish, can make this period easier.
Tips for the year ahead
- Keep up pelvic floor exercises, even when you feel well.
- Attend every PSA test and follow-up appointment.
- Stay active and keep to a healthy weight.
- Ask for help early if continence or erections are not improving as expected.
- Look after your emotional health as well as your physical recovery.
Support throughout
Professor Dasgupta and his team continue to support patients through follow-up, with regular reviews of PSA, continence and sexual function. Questions are welcome at any point, not only at scheduled appointments.
If you have questions about recovery and life after surgery, please contact the clinic.