← Return to Radiation vs Surgery Gleason 3+4=7, Long Term Side Effects (Cyclist)

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Profile picture for retireditguy @retireditguy

I'm not a medical professional and I certainly have no idea what's the best treatment for you. That said, here's my experience of the side effects after surgery. I was 70 yo when I had NS RARP at a center of excellence about 25 months ago. I was 5'11" 186 lbs at the time of surgery (ie. fit, but not excessively so). I also was fortunate to have a very experienced and sucessful surgeon at a CCOE. I was continent immediately after the catheter came out although I did have some minor urine releases as I figured out the new normal during the first 4 months or so. Without my old BPH prostate I pee like I'm 30 years younger. I did have significant ED right after surgery, with it slowly getting better until full recovery at 15 months. I should note that I followed a penile rehab program under the direction of my medical team at the CCOE. Also, the uncertainty and slow pace of the ED recovery did result in considerable anxiety during that time. As far as general physical activities, I wasn't allowed to lift more than 10 lbs for 6 weeks after the catheter came out, and no activies with small seats (like cycling) for 3 months. I actually had some perinium pain if I sat down too quickly on a small gym bench for at least 6 months, slowly fading over time. Generally speaking, I was fully back to normal by about 6 months with the exception that ED recovery took 15 (very stressful) months. Now at 2+ years, all that's been long gone for quite a while. I should also note I started Kegels about a month before surgery and continue them (although less frequently) to this day. I also note that during this entire time I've exercised and eaten a healthy diet. Best wishes.

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Replies to "I'm not a medical professional and I certainly have no idea what's the best treatment for..."

@retireditguy Thank you very much for sharing your experience. I has helped fill in a few on my information gaps. Do you mind sharing who your doctor was and which hospital?

Thank you