<\/span><\/h2>\nThe first days after prostate surgery are the period patients are most curious and concerned about. What is experienced during this process may vary depending on the type of surgery, the patient\u2019s general health condition, and the surgeon\u2019s techniques. However, the situations generally encountered and patients\u2019 comments on this subject are as follows:<\/p>\n
\n- Pain and Feeling of Discomfort<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Many patients state that they feel mild to moderate pain and discomfort in the first few days after surgery. This condition usually concentrates around the surgical incision sites and bladder area. Patients state that painkillers largely control this discomfort. In some comments, expressions such as \u201cThere was a little ache on the first day, but it passed immediately with medication,\u201d and \u201cThere was a burning sensation, but it was not unbearable\u201d stand out. The severity and duration of pain also depend on the type of anesthesia used and the surgical technique. There is also feedback that the recovery process starts faster with less invasive methods such as robotic surgery.<\/p>\n
\n- Presence of a Catheter (Bladder Catheter)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
After prostate surgery, a catheter (bladder catheter) is usually inserted to support the healing process of the bladder and allow urine to flow comfortably. This can be one of the most uncomfortable experiences for patients. The presence of a catheter may create a feeling of needing to urinate, mild burning, and occasional toilet urgency. Patients\u2019 comments on this subject are quite clear: \u201cThe catheter was the hardest part,\u201d \u201cI could not feel comfortable while the catheter was in,\u201d \u201cI felt great relief the moment the catheter was removed.\u201d The catheter usually remains for a few days to a week. After it is removed, symptoms such as urinary incontinence or burning may continue for a while.<\/p>\n
\n- Bleeding and Blood in the Urine<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Mild blood in the urine after surgery is normal. However, the amount and duration of bleeding are important. Patients state that blood mixed with urine is expected in the first days, but the bleeding should gradually decrease. \u201cMy first urine was bloody, but then its color became lighter,\u201d \u201cThere was mild blood in my urine for a few days, my doctor said this was normal.\u201d In case of excessive or continuous bleeding, it is necessary to consult a doctor.<\/p>\n
\n- Nutrition and Fluid Consumption<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
In the early postoperative period, patients are generally asked to follow a liquid diet. Then normal nutrition is gradually resumed. Consuming plenty of fluids is very important in terms of cleaning the urinary tract and reducing the risk of infection. Patients make comments such as \u201cDrinking plenty of water was very good,\u201d and \u201cI had difficulty at first, but then I got used to it.\u201d Paying attention to nutrition by following doctor recommendations accelerates the recovery process.<\/p>\n
\n- Mobilization (Movement)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
In the early postoperative period, patients are encouraged to gradually start moving. This helps prevent blood clot formation and restart bowel functions. Patients share experiences such as \u201cAlthough I struggled on the first day, I stood up,\u201d and \u201cI walked with the help of the nurses.\u201d Short walks positively affect the recovery process.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Recovery Process: Expectations After Prostate Surgery<\/span><\/h2>\nThe recovery process after prostate surgery is a complex journey that varies from person to person. It is important to adapt both physically and psychologically during this process.<\/p>\n
Physical Recovery<\/p>\n
\n- Pain and Discomfort: Postoperative pain usually decreases significantly within the first few weeks. Remaining mild discomfort disappears over time.<\/li>\n
- Catheter Removal: The catheter is usually removed between 3 and 7 days. After removal, the feeling of urination and possible burning may continue for a while.<\/li>\n
- Urinary Control: One of the most common problems after prostate surgery is urinary incontinence. This rate may be higher in surgeries such as TURP. In robotic surgery, there are data showing that urinary control returns more quickly [Source: Mayo Clinic, 2023]. Most patients regain full urinary control within a few weeks to a few months. However, in some patients, this process may take longer or mild leakage may continue. Exercises (such as Kegel exercises) provide great benefit in this process.<\/li>\n
- Sexual Functions: Erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation are potential side effects of prostate surgeries. Retrograde ejaculation is quite common in TURP surgeries and means that semen flows back into the bladder; this condition does not cause infertility but is important for couples planning pregnancy. The risk of erectile dysfunction is higher after radical prostatectomy. However, this risk can be reduced thanks to modern surgical techniques and nerve-sparing approaches. Patients state that regaining sexual functions takes time and may sometimes require medical support (medications, injections, etc.). \u201cMy sexual life was affected after surgery, but we found solutions by talking to my doctor.\u201d<\/li>\n
- Energy Level: General fatigue after surgery is normal. This occurs because the body spends energy during the healing process. Energy levels return to normal over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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