Your guide to recovery after prostate surgery

Prostate surgery can be stressful not only physically but also mentally. “Will I ever be able to enjoy sex again afterwards? Will orgasm feel different afterwards? Will I be incontinent?”, you may be wondering. We understand that prostate surgery and the recovery period afterwards can be a source of concern. But do not worry! MyPelvi explains how you can support a prompt and lasting recovery after prostate surgery and during rehabilitation.

Prostate surgery, also known as prostatectomy, is a procedure in which all or part of the prostate is removed. The most common reason for this is prostate cancer. Other reasons for prostate surgery include benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), meaning benign enlargement of the prostate, chronic prostatitis, a prostate abscess or bladder neck obstruction.

Rehabilitation usually starts in hospital, immediately after the operation. Physiotherapists show you the first exercises to promote mobility and prevent complications. However, it begins in earnest about a week after the operation, when you are back home or move to a rehabilitation clinic.

The exact timing and extent of rehabilitation depend on individual factors such as your state of health, the type of procedure and any complications. During a medical consultation, you will learn when and to what extent rehabilitation can begin for you.

Factors such as the type of operation, your state of health, your age and possible complications need to be considered. In general, it may take several weeks or months before you feel completely fit again.

- Short term: Most patients spend 1 to 3 days in hospital after the operation, depending on the type of procedure and their individual recovery process. - Medium term: During the first few weeks after the operation, the focus is on wound healing and returning to everyday activities such as walking and light physical activity. - Long term: It may take several months for full continence and potency to be restored. Physiotherapy and other rehabilitation measures such as pelvic floor training (e.g. with the 22-minute MyPelvi sessions) can help shorten this period.

It is important to give your body the time it needs and not demand too much too soon.

The first few hours in hospital after the operation are intended to allow you to recover from the anaesthetic and for your vital signs to stabilise. You will also spend the next few days (around 1-3 days after the operation) in bed to support wound healing and prevent possible complications.

After this period, you can slowly start getting out of bed. Depending on your individual condition, this may include getting up, taking short walks and doing light housework. Be sure to follow the instructions of your medical team. Engaging in physical activity too early or too intensely after prostate surgery can impair your recovery.

In general, the nerves responsible for controlling bladder and bowel function as well as potency may need some time to recover. Recovery times can vary considerably:

- Bladder control (continence): It may take several weeks or months for bladder control to be fully restored after prostate surgery. Physiotherapy and exercises for the pelvic floor muscles (e.g. with MyPelvi) can help [2]. - Potency (erectile function): Restoring erectile function may likewise take several months. In some cases, function may be partially or fully restored, while in others support through medication or other therapies may be required. There are several treatment options, including phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, vacuum erection devices, intracavernous or intraurethral prostaglandin injections and penile prostheses [5].

Driving is usually off-limits for the first 1-2 weeks after surgery. That's because during this time, physical issues such as pain or restrictions from drains or catheters can still affect your ability to drive.

The final decision on when you can drive again depends on your individual recovery — including full control over bladder and bowel function. You should also no longer be taking any medication that could affect your reaction time.

The rule of thumb: don't get back behind the wheel until you truly feel fit and pain-free. When the time comes, your medical team will give you the green light.

Prostate surgery places a major strain on your body. Therefore, give yourself enough time to recover and take things slowly. These tips can help you do something good for yourself now:

- Sleep and rest can be especially beneficial for healing at this stage. A balanced diet with fruit, vegetables, lean protein and wholegrain products supports recovery and the immune system. - Do not forget to drink plenty at this stage! Drinking water helps with healing and preventing urinary tract infections. - Start slowly with gentle walks or exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor. The 22-minute MyPelvi sessions can later help support bladder control and improve your erectile function. [Arrange a MyPelvi trial session now](/de/standorte) - Avoid heavy lifting, stress and physical exertion during the first few weeks after the operation to promote wound healing. - Do you currently have worries, concerns, questions or fears after the operation? Discuss these with your medical team and seek psychotherapeutic support. - Remain patient! Give yourself time to recover and take enough breaks to relax.

Prostate surgery is a procedure that requires rehabilitation to minimise consequences such as incontinence or erectile dysfunction. After a recovery period of a few days to weeks following the operation, you can begin rehabilitation together with medical professionals. This initially includes gentle exercises and walks, followed later by targeted pelvic floor training.

Do not rush things; give yourself enough time to recover. Your physical functions may not be restored to the full extent you were accustomed to before the prostatectomy. If this results in distressing situations, psychological support is available to help you regain a sense of ease and enjoy life to the fullest.

Learn the right technique with guidance — free of charge at your MyPelvi studio.