Dr. David B. Samadi breaks down the key differences between prostatectomy (surgical removal) and radiation therapy, helping you understand which might be right for your situation.
What Type of Prostate Cancer Do You Have?
Before comparing treatment options, it’s critical to understand your diagnosis:
- PSA level
- Gleason score (cancer aggressiveness)
- Cancer stage (how far it has spread)
- Age and overall health
- Personal preferences and lifestyle goals
Dr. Samadi tailors every recommendation to the individual—not just the disease.
Option 1: Prostate Cancer Surgery (Robotic Prostatectomy)
In a robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy, the prostate gland is surgically removed using small incisions and robotic instruments for precision.
Pros of Surgery:
- Complete removal of the cancerous prostate
- Accurate staging and pathology (Gleason score, margins)
- Option to pursue additional treatment later, if needed
- One-time procedure with a clear endpoint
- Best long-term survival outcomes for many men under 70
Cons of Surgery:
- Recovery from surgery (1–2 weeks off normal activities)
- Temporary urinary incontinence (improves with time and therapy)
- Potential risk of erectile dysfunction (varies by age and nerve preservation)
Option 2: Radiation Therapy
Radiation uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be delivered in two main ways:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
- Brachytherapy (internal seed implants)
Pros of Radiation:
- Non-surgical and outpatient procedure
- Often no immediate downtime
- Can be used after surgery if cancer recurs
- Advanced techniques in 2025 reduce damage to nearby organs
Cons of Radiation:
- Requires multiple treatments over several weeks (for EBRT)
- Possible delayed side effects (months to years later)
- May cause bowel issues, fatigue, or urinary irritation
- Limits options for surgery later, if cancer returns
Surgery vs. Radiation: Side-by-Side Comparison
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Factor
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Surgery (Robotic Prostatectomy)
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Radiation Therapy
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Invasiveness
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Minimally invasive surgery
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Non-invasive
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Hospital Stay
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1 night (or outpatient)
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None
|
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Treatment Duration
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One-time procedure
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5 days/week for 6–8 weeks (EBRT)
|
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PSA Monitoring
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Immediate drop to near-zero
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Gradual decline over months
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Follow-Up Options
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Radiation still possible
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Surgery more difficult after
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Side Effects
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Short-term incontinence, ED risk
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Delayed urinary or bowel issues
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Long-Term Outcomes
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Excellent for localized cancer
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Comparable for early-stage
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Which Is Right for You?
The choice between surgery and radiation often depends on:
- Your age: Younger men may benefit more from surgery
- Overall health: Radiation may be preferred for men with other health conditions
- Cancer stage and aggression
- Desire for a one-time solution vs. non-invasive treatment
- Future treatment flexibility
Dr. Samadi works with each patient to determine the least invasive, most effective path forward—one that preserves both health and quality of life.
Why Many Men Choose Surgery with Dr. Samadi
With thousands of successful robotic surgeries, Dr. Samadi is known for:
- Nerve-sparing technique to preserve sexual function
- Low complication and incontinence rates
- Rapid recovery and return to daily life
- Precision diagnosis and long-term care coordination
Still Deciding? Get a Personalized Treatment Consultation
You don’t have to make this decision alone. Dr. Samadi offers second opinions and expert guidance to help you understand all your options—surgical and non-surgical.
Schedule your consultation today
Call now: 212-365-5000