Article #1 – How is my progress going following my surgery?
Since my surgery, I have monitored my rehabilitation and made some assessments of what 'I used to have" and what is "My New Normal". Additionally I have asked another PC male to contribute.
The following table is a prepared by myself and contributed to by another male. We are both recovering from robotic prostatectomy surgery and the table lists our physical body and sexual achievements and losses since our surgery. The table documents what functionality and enjoyment we had prior to the surgery, our rehabilitation status at 10 and approximately 14 months following the surgery, and our projected rehabilitation status in 2 years.
Male #2 is in a monogamous married relationship whereas I live an open and honest non monogamous life. The presence of a committed partner your life may be of assistance during your rehabilitation process whereas I have chosen to remain single and actively date during this post op period. If you are single and wanting to date, please read my posts on Dating Without A Prostate.
The table includes a Rehabilitation Satisfaction Score based on our experiences and projected status. I realise that every man with prostate cancer post-op issues will be different, but this is my perspective (Male #1) and that of a friend (Male #2) who is also on the same rehabilitation journey.
I have produced this table out of frustration because all of the prostate cancer references that I have read, and all the specialists that I talked to, there is this common phrase used. “In most cases, men with early detection and undergoing nerve saving prostatectomy, will achieve FULL RECOVERY”.
There is “No Full Recovery” from prostate surgery. There are permanent physical and mental scars that do not permit Full Recovery. Due to the shortcomings of the prostate cancer references which document recovery, I have compiled this table to provide a greater insight for men who have prostate cancer and about to undergo surgery or treatment. This document may also assist health professionals who have not had a prostatectomy, to have a better understanding of what Full Recovery means. Our shared journey detailed here may also give you an insight of what progress looks like and you can gauge your own achievements.
I hope that this table is of some assistance to those who read it and gives them guidance and hope in finding their “New Normal”.
I have not discussed impacts on mental health yet, but if you are suffering from mental health issues associated with your diagnosis or your ongoing rehabilitation, please seek assistance and talk to someone. Email me, if that will help.