After prostate cancer surgery, most men want to know when they can get back to everyday life. The answer depends on the type of operation, your general health, the kind of work you do and how your recovery goes. These general guides apply to most men after robotic prostatectomy, but your own surgical team's advice should always come first.
The first two weeks
The first one to two weeks are mainly about rest, short walks and looking after your catheter. Our guide to going home with a catheter covers this stage.
During this time:
- walk a little further each day
- avoid lifting anything heavier than a kettle
- avoid long periods sitting still, to reduce the risk of blood clots
- rest when you feel tired
Driving
You should not drive while the catheter is in place. After it is removed, most men can drive again once they:
- can sit comfortably for the length of the journey
- can wear a seatbelt without discomfort
- can perform an emergency stop safely
- are not taking painkillers that cause drowsiness
For many men, this is around two to four weeks after surgery. Start with short journeys. Check that your insurance covers you, as some policies have specific conditions after surgery. The DVLA guidance on driving after surgery explains your responsibilities.
Returning to work
The timing depends on the type of work:
- Desk-based or home working: many men return after about two to four weeks, often starting with shorter days.
- Work involving standing or moving about: often around four to six weeks.
- Heavy manual work: usually six weeks or more, as heavy lifting needs to wait until the abdominal muscles have healed.
Leakage can be a worry when returning to work. Carrying spare pads and underwear, knowing where toilets are and taking regular breaks can help. Many employers are willing to agree a phased return. It can help to talk to your manager or occupational health team before surgery, so a plan is in place before you need it.
Exercise
Building up activity gradually helps recovery, mood and energy levels.
Weeks one to two: short, gentle walks several times a day.
Weeks two to six: longer walks and gentle activity, such as light stretching. Avoid lifting, straining and high-impact exercise.
From around six weeks: most men can start returning to swimming, gym work with light weights, golf and similar activities, building up slowly.
Cycling: usually best avoided for around six weeks or longer, as the saddle puts pressure on the area around the healing join.
Contact sports and heavy weights: discuss timing with your surgeon, often after six to eight weeks or more.
If an activity causes pain or more leakage, ease off and build up more slowly.
Pelvic floor exercises
Pelvic floor exercises are an important part of getting back to normal. They help improve bladder control, which in turn makes work and exercise easier. Your team will advise when to start.
Sex
Most men can resume sexual activity when they feel ready, usually after a few weeks. Erections may take time to recover. Our article on regaining erectile function after surgery explains what to expect.
Listening to your body
Tiredness after surgery is common and can last several weeks. A good routine helps:
- regular sleep
- balanced meals
- plenty of fluids
- gradual increases in activity
Our guide to recovery after robotic prostate surgery gives a wider timeline. Macmillan Cancer Support also offers practical advice on returning to work after cancer.
When to seek advice
Contact your team if you develop pain in the calf, chest pain, breathlessness, a fever or worsening abdominal pain.
Professor Prokar Dasgupta and his team guide men through every stage of recovery at The London Clinic. Please contact the clinic with any questions.