Update date: 3 August 2026
Publish date: 16 October 2025
Read in: 7 min
Prostatectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of part or all of the prostate gland, most often in connection with prostate cancer. The operation can be performed in various ways: laparoscopically (with small incisions in the abdomen), open surgery (with a large incision in the lower abdomen) or using the Da Vinci robotic system. Find out what preparation for prostate surgery and subsequent rehabilitation involve.
Depending on the severity of the condition and the medical intervention required, there are two types of prostatectomy: simple and radical. Simple prostatectomy, involving partial removal of the gland, is used in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Radical prostatectomy, which involves the removal of the entire prostate gland along with part of the urethra and seminal vesicles, is recommended for advanced prostate cancer.
The first and crucial stage of preparation for prostatectomy is a consultation with a urologist. The doctor will assess the patient’s overall health, perform the necessary tests, and discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure. They will also provide recommendations on further steps the patient can take to aid in the preparation process.
Prehabilitation is a key element in preparing for prostate removal surgery, aimed at minimising the risk of complications after the procedure and speeding up the recovery process. In the case of prostate surgery, prehabilitation is particularly important because as many as 60–90% of men experience problems such as urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction, which may result from damage to blood vessels and nerves during surgery, as well as from a lack of adequate preparation of the pelvic floor muscles. Undergoing therapy before surgery shortens recovery time, increases the chances of regaining full fitness and gives the patient a sense of control over their own body.
A visit to a urological physiotherapist does not require any special preparation. However, it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing that allows you to perform the exercises freely, and to bring your medical records, including current test results and information about previous operations.
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The most common problem faced by men after prostatectomy is urinary incontinence, which is the result of weakened pelvic floor muscles and damage to the nerves controlling the bladder. In some cases, the symptoms resolve spontaneously, but if they persist for 6–12 months after surgery, it is worth consulting a urologist to discuss further treatment options.
Another complication is difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. This may be a temporary or permanent problem, with varying degrees of severity. In such cases, urological physiotherapy, pharmacotherapy, therapy with a sexologist and non-invasive treatment methods such as focused shock wave therapy (FSWT) or EMG Biofeedback may be helpful.
Prostatectomy can also lead to infertility, which affects many patients after this procedure. Men planning to have children should consider protecting their fertility before surgery by storing their sperm in a sperm bank.
If lymph nodes are removed during surgery, problems with lymph drainage may occur, leading to swelling. In this case, physiotherapy and lymphatic drainage will be helpful.
Rehabilitation after prostate surgery is tailored to the individual needs of the patient. The main goal of therapy is to prevent fibrosis of the tissues in the penile area, improve blood flow and restore full function. The rehabilitation process begins with a review of prehabilitation education, followed by a detailed health interview and physical examination by a physiotherapist.
During rehabilitation, the patient learns how to tense the pelvic floor muscles, prevent overload and avoid post-operative complications such as post-operative swelling. The therapy also includes work on breathing, chest mobility and overall body well-being. In addition, physical therapy treatments such as biofeedback, shock wave therapy and electromagnetic stimulation (HIFEM) may be used.
Regular cooperation with a physiotherapist brings noticeable results after just a few weeks. Starting rehabilitation early significantly increases the chances of avoiding pharmacological or surgical treatment, e.g. in the case of urethral sphincter reconstruction.
At NAMI, we understand how difficult rehabilitation after prostatectomy can be and how important specialist support is during the recovery process. That is why we offer comprehensive care tailored to the individual needs of patients, using modern physiotherapy methods and precise diagnostics. The sooner you take advantage of our help, the sooner you will see improvement. Do not wait – urological physiotherapy after prostatectomy is the key to a quick and effective recovery.
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