What was your experience having prostate removed?

I am in my 4th week post-op. Everything went better than expected. I am having almost no issues with incontinence, which had been my biggest worry. I attribute this to: 1) getting the very best surgeon in the area, 2) my overall good health, 3) getting the best surgeon in the area. ;-)

I'm amazed the operation and recuperation have gone so well. I switched to a vegan diet a couple months before the operation, started exercising more, and getting in the best shape possible. I'm 66.

Since I'm not quite a month out from surgery, it's too early to tell how the erectile issues will go, but I'm optimistic. The surgeon was able to preserve all nerve bundles, which is essential.

So, my experience has been very good, so far.

Met the robot in November, 2009. Released from the hospital 16 hours later. Slept most of next two days until anesthesia wore off. Cath for one week. Almost no pain. A year later repair of hernia resulting from the surgery hurt a lot more. No incontinence, ever. Alas no true erections, ever. Ten weeks out from surgery, my wife and I went on our own to explore Cambodia and Vietnam for eight weeks. Best trip ever. Life is good. Good luck.

Groundhogy, I agree with Shaws that it is critical that you take charge of your care. You certainly have to be your own advocate with this disease and you have to evaluate all of your options. I'll disagree a bit in that I do believe others' experiences have some relevance as it gives you information...and info is power.

@Shaws, I'm not sure which post you are characterizing as "stupid" but I'll ask you to please not use derogatory terms in referring to other members (Rule #3). If you want to provide your perspective to correct another's post feel free but please be polite.

Jim