Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide, and thanks to medical advancements, there are more treatment choices than ever before. From active surveillance to robotic surgery and targeted therapies, today’s prostate cancer treatments are highly personalized. But with so many options, many men find themselves asking: Is surgery the right path for me?
In this in-depth article, we’ll explore the role of surgery in prostate cancer treatment, who it’s for, how it compares to other options, and what long-term outcomes patients can expect. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or researching for a loved one, this guide aims to empower you with clarity, facts, and medically verified insight.
Not All Diagnoses Are the Same
Prostate cancer varies widely in aggressiveness. Some cancers grow so slowly that they may never cause symptoms, while others are fast-moving and potentially life-threatening. This spectrum of severity is why personalized treatment is crucial.
Treatment decisions typically depend on:
- The Gleason score and cancer stage
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels
- Age and life expectancy
- General health
- Personal values and quality of life considerations
Surgery is one of several frontline treatments. Others include radiation therapy, hormone therapy, active surveillance, and in select cases, minimally invasive options like HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound).
What Does Prostate Cancer Surgery Involve?
The most common surgical procedure is a radical prostatectomy, where the entire prostate gland is removed. There are two main approaches:
1. Open Radical Prostatectomy
A traditional technique involving a single incision in the lower abdomen. It gives the surgeon direct access and is often used in complex cases.
2. Minimally Invasive Prostatectomy (Laparoscopic or Robotic-Assisted)
Small incisions and a camera-guided robotic system are used to remove the prostate with high precision. This approach typically leads to faster recovery, less pain, and reduced blood loss.
Who Is Surgery Best For?
Surgery is often recommended for:
- Localized prostate cancer: When cancer is confined to the prostate.
- High-risk patients: With rapidly growing cancer or a high Gleason score.
- Younger, healthier men: Who are more likely to benefit from complete removal and long-term cancer control.
It may not be the first choice for men with low-risk prostate cancer or significant health issues that make surgery risky. In such cases, non-surgical treatments or surveillance might be preferred.
How Does Surgery Compare to Other Treatments?
Let’s break down how prostate cancer surgery stacks up against other modern treatments:
1. Surgery vs. Radiation Therapy
Radiation is non-invasive and commonly used for men who want to avoid surgery. However, long-term outcomes for localized cancer are comparable between radiation and surgery.
Surgery Advantages:
- Entire prostate is removed and examined for spread
- Lower risk of secondary cancers
- Easier to monitor PSA afterward
Radiation Advantages:
- No anesthesia or hospital stay
- Suitable for older or high-risk surgical patients.
Both may cause urinary or sexual side effects, though onset timelines and severity may vary.
2. Surgery vs. Active Surveillance
For low-risk or slow-growing cancer, many men opt for active surveillance, which involves regular PSA testing, biopsies, and imaging. This avoids overtreatment but carries some risk of progression.
Surgery Advantages:
- Eliminates cancer immediately
- Peace of mind for those uncomfortable with waiting
Surveillance Advantages:
- No immediate side effects
- Maintains quality of life if cancer remains stable
3. Surgery vs. HIFU or Focal Therapies
Minimally invasive focal therapies like HIFU target only the tumor area, preserving much of the prostate.
Surgery Advantages:
- Complete removal reduces recurrence risk
- Gold standard for long-term data
HIFU Advantages:
- Lower rates of incontinence and erectile dysfunction
- Quicker recovery
However, focal therapies are still being studied for long-term outcomes and aren’t suitable for all cancer types.
What Are the Risks of Surgery?
As with any major procedure, prostate cancer surgery carries risks. These include:
- Urinary incontinence: Most men regain control within 3–6 months.
- Erectile dysfunction: Often temporary but can be long-term; nerve-sparing techniques help reduce this risk.
- Bowel changes: Mild and usually temporary.
- Bleeding or infection: Rare in experienced centers.
Choosing an experienced surgeon significantly reduces these risks. At Erdem Hospital, patients benefit from advanced operating rooms, modern post-op care, and English-speaking coordinators to support recovery.
Life After Surgery
Most men are discharged within 1–3 days after surgery and recover fully over 4–6 weeks.
Short-Term:
- You’ll go home with a catheter for about a week.
- Mild discomfort and fatigue are normal.
- Walking and gentle activity help recovery.
Long-Term:
- Regular PSA testing to monitor recurrence.
- Pelvic floor exercises can aid urinary control.
- Medications like sildenafil may support erectile function recovery.
According to the American Urological Association, 85–90% of men report cancer-free survival 10 years after surgery for localized prostate cancer.
Psychological Considerations
Choosing a cancer treatment is as much an emotional decision as it is a medical one. Men often feel anxiety over possible side effects, regret over lost function, or pressure to “be strong” for their families.
It’s important to:
- Speak openly with your urologist about your concerns
- Include your partner in discussions about intimacy and expectations
- Consider mental health support or counseling
Erdem Hospital offers holistic support for patients, recognizing that recovery is both physical and emotional.
Why Men Travel for Prostate Cancer Surgery
Medical tourism is on the rise for prostate cancer treatment. Patients from the UK, USA, and Europe are increasingly traveling to Turkey for:
- Lower costs without compromising quality
- Highly experienced urologists
- Shorter waiting times
- Integrated care packages, including accommodation and transfers
Erdem Hospital, located in Istanbul, is one of Turkey’s top destinations for prostate cancer surgery. Combining 37+ years of clinical experience with internationally trained surgeons, they provide a safe, comfortable environment for global patients seeking surgery.
Final Thoughts: Is Surgery Right for You?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer in prostate cancer treatment. Surgery offers a powerful solution especially for men with localized or aggressive cancer who are healthy enough for an operation. But it’s not the only option.
Discuss all your choices with your urologist. Consider a second opinion if you feel unsure. And remember: the goal is not just survival but living well, with confidence in the path you choose.
Considering Prostate Surgery in Turkey?
If you’re exploring international options for prostate cancer surgery, Erdem Hospital welcomes patients from all over the world. Led by Prof. Dr. Necmettin Atsü, our urology team offers both open and minimally invasive surgery with a compassionate, bilingual care team by your side.
Book a consultation to receive a personalized treatment plan based on your medical history and preferences. Let us support your journey to better health.