2 week countdown

Hatter,

Hang in there my friend. It will all work out for you.

My PSA and Gleason score was similar to yours. I had my surgery about 6 months ago. Just plan on taking it easy after the surgery. Find a comfortable Lazyboy and watch some good movies. I got hooked on "Home Land". Once your catheter comes out, you can start walking to regain your strength. Drinks lots of water to flush your system and stay away from coffee and caffeine. Coffee will cause you some real issues especially as it relates to incontinence.

I was basically dry after the catheter came out. I still have a few dribbles once in a while but no big deal. As to your "Manhood" if your surgeon saves your nerves bundles, you'll be fine in time. I'm improving with my ED issues but at your age, you'll do well.

My wife was really helpful to me. She was there for me and helped me with the range of emotions you'll experience in your recovery.......In the end, it will work out for you. Keep working on losing those extra pounds.

Prayers coming your way....Let us know how you're doing from the "other side".

All the best to you.........Berk

Hatter-

I strongly recommend that you read Dr. Mulhall's book (link below), watch his videos (ditto), or have a consultation with him before your surgery (or even all 3). It will help you understand the ED implications of the surgery and your options for rehab and recovery. I'm sure that Dr. Eastham's team could get you an expedited appointment with Dr. Mulhall.

I'm 14 months post-op, and still have pretty significant ED, but I am seeing progress. Injections keep things active for rehab and intimacy. Pills help, but not as much as I'd like.

Best of luck on surgery day. Sounds like you are doing all the right things to prepare.

-Gedman

Hatter,

I am 4 weeks post Tuesday. Dropping the pounds will help also. Walk as far as you can and often. My experience was 1 week post, walking was not easy. After cath removed things improved. You will feel like a pine cone is between your legs. With ibuprofen it is reduced to an acorn.

You will be given stool softeners during your stay. Pick up some and continue to take them afterwards. I waited 4 days to start them again and was miserable. Hard headed me.

Drink plenty of fluids after. I am about 80% dry. 100% at night. I find if I keep my bladder full I can keep the urine back better. I tell my wife it is the Full Bladder Syndrome. I can sit through minor league baseball game without going to bathroom. When I cough I drip some. I told my wife I have a better idea of what women go through with urination after childbirth. The briefs and pads do not bother me. I know that the cancer was removed and things will get better.

A few days after starting Cialis 5 mg every other day,we started trying to have sex. It is not always as firm as before surgery but penetration was possible and I am happy with that. Others on this board have all ranges of success /failure. I am thankful for what has been accomplished so far and enjoy what life has in store for me.

Good luck with your surgery. I thought it was not that bad. Belly will be sore until things start to heal.