Will I have erectile dysfunction after prostate surgery?
Erectile dysfunction is common after prostate surgery, particularly after surgery for prostate cancer, because nerves and blood vessels involved in erections lie close to the prostate. Recovery is possible for many men, but the degree and speed of improvement vary between individuals.
Key points:
- Erectile dysfunction is more likely after radical prostatectomy, especially in the early months after surgery.
- Nerve-sparing techniques can improve the chance of recovering erectile function, although they do not guarantee it.
- Recovery may take months to two years, depending on age, baseline erectile function and overall health.
- Early treatment such as sildenafil, tadalafil, vacuum devices or specialist support may be recommended as part of penile rehabilitation.
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.