Post-Laser Prostate Surgery: Managing Symptoms and Recovery Timeline

Symptoms after prostate laser surgery?

Hello Doctor: It has been almost a month since my prostate laser surgery, but I am experiencing severe urinary urgency, and I feel like there hasn't been much improvement.
Additionally, I occasionally have hematuria.
Is it normal to not feel like I'm gradually recovering? Also, I am experiencing pain in the perineal area, and doing Kegel exercises causes pain and sometimes leads to hematuria (even when I'm not exercising, I notice faint blood in my urine).
Should I continue doing the exercises, or should I wait until the wound heals? Furthermore, how long does it typically take for urinary urgency and hematuria to resolve after surgery? Can I take dietary supplements, or should I wait until the wound has healed? Thank you for your answers, Doctor.

Lin Xiansheng, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/06

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology

We specialize in laser surgery for the prostate and also address many cases of post-operative urinary incontinence from surgeries performed at other hospitals.
Some patients can gradually recover with medication adjustments, but it is important to acknowledge that in some cases, surgery should not have been performed in the first place.
If further assistance is needed, you can visit the Urology Department at Changhua Hospital under the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
We recommend that you temporarily suspend Kegel exercises.
Most dietary supplements are generally safe.

Reply Date: 2021/07/06

More Info

Post-laser prostate surgery, also known as laser prostatectomy, is a common procedure for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While many patients experience significant relief from urinary symptoms following the surgery, it is not uncommon for some to encounter complications or prolonged recovery periods. Your concerns regarding urinary urgency (or "flashing" urine), intermittent hematuria (blood in urine), and perineal pain are valid and warrant a thorough discussion.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that the recovery timeline after laser prostate surgery can vary significantly among individuals. Generally, patients may experience some degree of urinary urgency, frequency, and even mild incontinence in the weeks following the procedure. These symptoms are often due to the irritation of the bladder and urethra caused by the surgery. For many, these symptoms gradually improve over time, typically within a few weeks to a few months. However, if you are nearing the one-month mark and still experiencing severe symptoms, it may be worth discussing this with your urologist.

The presence of blood in the urine can also be a common occurrence post-surgery, especially if the surgical site is still healing. It is crucial to monitor the amount and frequency of blood in your urine. If you notice a significant increase in bleeding or if the blood is bright red, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately, as this may indicate a complication that requires attention.

Regarding the pain you are experiencing in the perineal area, this can be attributed to the surgical trauma and irritation of surrounding tissues. It is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort in this region for several weeks post-surgery. However, if the pain is severe or worsening, it is essential to consult your doctor to rule out any complications such as infection or improper healing.

As for Kegel exercises, which are designed to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, it is advisable to approach these with caution during your recovery. If you are experiencing pain while performing these exercises, it may be best to pause them until you have fully healed. Your healthcare provider can give you personalized advice on when it is safe to resume these exercises.

In terms of dietary supplements or health products, most are generally safe to take post-surgery, but it is always best to consult your doctor before introducing any new supplements into your regimen. Some supplements may interact with medications or affect your recovery, so getting professional advice is crucial.

In conclusion, while some degree of discomfort and urinary symptoms can be expected after laser prostate surgery, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation, provide appropriate interventions, and help you manage your recovery effectively. Remember, open communication with your healthcare team is vital to ensure a smooth recovery and to address any concerns you may have.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Laser Prostate Surgery: What to Expect

Is it normal to experience difficulty urinating, lower abdominal discomfort, and only being able to urinate a small amount two weeks after undergoing laser surgery for the prostate?

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If it has been two weeks and you do not feel any improvement, you should return for a follow-up appointment. It is recommended that you keep a record of your urine output and the times of urination for the physician's reference.

Understanding GreenLight Laser Prostate Vaporization: Post-Operative Concerns

My father underwent GreenLight laser prostate vaporization surgery at the end of 2005. In October 2010, he experienced severe hematuria due to benign prostatic hyperplasia and underwent the GreenLight laser prostate vaporization surgery again at the end of November. However, near...

Dr. Lin Yiting reply Urology
Any surgery involving the urethra, prostate, and bladder may result in microscopic hematuria, as well as increased urinary frequency and nocturia during the wound healing period, which typically lasts about 1-2 months postoperatively. Generally, these symptoms improve within two ...

Post-Da Vinci Surgery: Managing Frequent Urination After Prostate Cancer

Hello Dr. Du, in February of this year, my father was diagnosed with stage III prostate cancer (T3A). He underwent a Da Vinci robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy in early April. It has been nearly five months since the surgery, and he has been diligently performing Kegel exerc...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: This situation can be observed after radical prostatectomy, and the recovery rate varies from person to person, as each individual's condition of the urethra and bladder before surgery is different. The need for further surgery depends on whether the patient feels tha...

Understanding Prostate Cancer: Managing Incontinence and Hormone Therapy Options

Hello Doctor, my father had a PSA level of 32.5 and a prostate volume of 45, and underwent a laser enucleation procedure in September. The biopsy results confirmed prostate cancer, and the doctor arranged for a bone scan and MRI, which showed no bone metastasis or involvement of ...

Dr. Li Minghui reply Urology
Hello: 1) Postoperative urinary incontinence generally improves gradually over a few months. If the amount of leakage decreases, it will continue to improve. Medication can also help, but the extent of recovery varies. 2) Hormonal therapy is a common treatment option that suppres...