Post-Prostate Surgery Appearance: Incisions, Drains, Catheter, Recovery

Expected postoperative appearance after prostatectomy:

Incisions (Approach-Dependent)

• Open retropubic: Midline infra-umbilical to pubis.
• Robotic/Laparoscopic: 5–6 small ports (8–12 mm) across abdomen; one slightly larger for specimen extraction.
• Perineal: Incision between scrotum and anus (rarely used now).

Common Findings

• Dressings: Sterile strips/dermabond over ports/incision.
• Drains: 1–2 Jackson-Pratt drains (removed when output <30 mL/day).
• Swelling/bruising: Scrotal/penile edema common (gravity-dependent); resolves in weeks.
• Urethral catheter: Indwelling 7–14 days (longer if anastomotic leak suspected). Exits penis; secured to thigh.

Clothing & Activity

Loose elastic-waist pants, supportive underwear. No heavy lifting >6 weeks. Walk early and often.

Individual healing varies; follow your surgeon's specific protocol.