How Much Does a Prostatectomy Cost?

What is a Prostatectomy?

The prostrate is a walnut-sized gland located in the groin that surrounds the urethra (the tube that drains urine from the bladder through the penis), and produces the fluid in male semen.  The prostate tends to enlarge as a man ages, or because of cancer, thus compressing the urethra and restricting urine flow.  A prostatectomy is the procedure where a healthcare professional widens the center of the prostrate ring by coring the tissue with an instrument inserted through the penis. 

Who Requires a Prostatectomy?

The symptoms of an enlarged prostrate include not being able to empty the bladder completely, needing to go to the bathroom more often (especially at night), hesitation in starting to urinate, and a weak urine stream.  If the symptoms are mild, the healthcare professional may prescribe medication.  If that fails or if the symptoms greatly upset the patient’s daily routine, a prostatectomy is recommended. 

How Is a Prostatectomy Performed?

Using an injection in the spine that numbs from the waist down or general anesthesia, the healthcare profession will insert a cystoscope into the urethra to the prostrate, where surrounding tissue is excised. A prostatectomy generally takes thirty to sixty minutes to perform, with a recovery time of two to four weeks.  This procedure provides excellent results for the majority of men with minimal discomfort, allowing a return to sexual intercourse as soon as the wound is healed.  A qualified healthcare professional will examine the tissue at a certified laboratory to determine if further treatment is necessary.

To compare the cost of a prostatectomy by country, please consult our medical tourism pricing guide.