Prostate surgery is a procedure performed to treat conditions affecting the prostate gland, most commonly benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — an enlargement of the prostate that blocks urine flow — or prostate cancer in some cases.
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. When it enlarges, it can cause urinary problems such as:
• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine flow
• Frequent urination (especially at night)
• Incomplete bladder emptying
Surgery helps remove or reduce prostate tissue, improving urinary flow and overall comfort.
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Types of Prostate Surgery
1. TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
• The most common procedure for BPH.
• A thin instrument (resectoscope) is inserted through the urethra.
• Excess prostate tissue is removed with an electrical loop — no external incision needed.
• Performed under spinal or general anesthesia.
2. Open (Simple) Prostatectomy
• Used for very large prostates or when bladder stones/diverticula are present.
• Involves an abdominal incision to remove excess prostate tissue.
3. Laparoscopic or Robotic Prostatectomy
• Minimally invasive options performed through small incisions.
• Commonly used for prostate cancer, allowing precise removal of the gland.
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Pre-Operative Instructions
🔹 1. Medical Preparation
• A full urological evaluation, including blood tests, urine analysis, ECG, and sometimes ultrasound or MRI, will be done.
• Inform your doctor about all medications, allergies, and health conditions.
• Stop blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, etc.) 7–10 days before surgery (with doctor’s approval).
🔹 2. Before Surgery
• Do not eat or drink anything for 8 hours before surgery.
• You may be given a bowel preparation or antibiotics before the procedure.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you home after discharge.
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Post-Operative Care
🔹 1. Immediately After Surgery
• A urinary catheter (Foley catheter) will be inserted to drain urine and allow healing.
• Your urine may appear bloody or pink for several days — this is normal.
• Bladder irrigation may be used to prevent clot formation.
• You’ll receive IV fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication as needed.
🔹 2. At Home (After Discharge)
• The catheter usually remains in place for 3–7 days, depending on healing.
• Drink plenty of fluids (2–3 liters/day) to flush the bladder and prevent infection.
• Avoid straining during bowel movements; use stool softeners if necessary.
• Do not lift heavy objects, drive, or do strenuous activity for at least 2–4 weeks.
• Continue taking prescribed medications and antibiotics as directed.
🔹 3. Recovery Phase
• Mild burning, frequency, or urgency during urination may persist for 1–2 weeks after catheter removal.
• Most patients return to light work within two weeks and make a full recovery in 4–6 weeks.
• Temporary urinary leakage or sexual function changes can occur but often improve over time.
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⚠️ When to Contact Your Doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you experience:
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) or chills
• Heavy bleeding or blood clots in urine
• Inability to urinate after catheter removal
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Signs of infection (pain, redness, swelling, or foul-smelling urine)
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Final Notes
• Prostate surgery is a safe and effective way to relieve urinary obstruction and improve quality of life.
• Follow-up visits are crucial to monitor healing and urinary function.
• Practice pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises as recommended to strengthen bladder control.
• Maintain adequate hydration and a balanced diet, and avoid smoking or alcohol during recovery.
With proper care and patience, most men experience significant improvements in urination, comfort, and confidence after prostate surgery.