Treatment Overview
High-risk prostatectomy in Korea is a specialized surgical procedure for patients with high-risk or aggressive prostate cancer. This minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery aims to remove the prostate gland and, if necessary, surrounding tissues and lymph nodes to achieve optimal cancer control. High-risk prostate cancer is typically characterized by high PSA levels, high Gleason scores, or locally advanced tumors.
Korea is globally recognized for advanced robotic urologic surgery, offering precision, safety, and comprehensive patient care. High-risk prostatectomy in Korea combines expert surgical techniques with state-of-the-art robotic systems to maximize oncological outcomes while preserving urinary and sexual function when possible.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of high-risk prostatectomy is complete removal of cancerous tissue in patients with aggressive or advanced prostate cancer.
Key benefits include:
• Minimally invasive robotic surgery for reduced trauma
• Precise excision of the prostate, surrounding tissue, and lymph nodes
• Nerve-sparing options when feasible to preserve erectile function
• Reduced blood loss and lower complication rates compared to open surgery
• Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
• Enhanced cancer control and staging accuracy
• Improved quality of life post-surgery
Korean hospitals integrate robotic precision with individualized planning to achieve both oncological and functional success.
Ideal Candidates
High-risk prostatectomy is suitable for patients diagnosed with aggressive or locally advanced prostate cancer.
Ideal candidates include:
• Men with high PSA levels, high Gleason scores, or locally advanced tumors
• Patients with high-risk features for lymph node involvement
• Individuals seeking minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery
• Patients in good overall health suitable for anesthesia
• Men interested in preserving urinary and sexual function where possible
Korean specialists conduct thorough assessments including PSA levels, MRI, biopsy results, and overall functional health to determine suitability.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, high-risk prostatectomy carries potential risks:
• Infection at the incision or surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Urinary leakage or delayed continence
• Erectile dysfunction if nerve preservation is not possible
• Lymphocele (fluid accumulation at lymph node removal sites)
• Rare anesthesia-related complications
• Scar tissue formation or urethral stricture
Korean hospitals mitigate these risks with robotic precision, careful surgical planning, and structured postoperative care.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korea employs advanced techniques and technology for high-risk prostatectomy:
• Robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery with 3D high-definition visualization
• Nerve-sparing techniques when feasible
• Lymph node dissection for cancer staging and treatment
• Micro-incisions to minimize tissue trauma
• Intraoperative imaging and navigation for precise tumor removal
• Advanced suturing and urethral reconstruction for optimal urinary continence
• Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for faster rehabilitation
These technologies allow high-precision surgery even in challenging high-risk cases while reducing complications.
Treatment Process in Korea
The high-risk prostatectomy process in Korea is structured for safety and efficiency:
- Pre-Arrival Consultation
Patients provide medical history, PSA results, MRI scans, and biopsy reports. - In-Person Evaluation
Urologists assess tumor stage, lymph node involvement, and overall health to confirm eligibility. - Surgical Planning
Surgeons create a personalized plan including nerve-sparing feasibility, lymph node dissection, and robotic setup. - Surgery
The procedure typically lasts 3–5 hours under general anesthesia using robotic-assisted minimally invasive techniques. - Hospital Recovery
Patients usually stay 2–4 days for monitoring, pain management, and early mobilization. - Postoperative Care
Catheter removal occurs 5–7 days after surgery. Follow-up visits monitor urinary continence, PSA levels, and sexual function. - Long-Term Follow-Up
Regular visits assess cancer control, functional recovery, and overall health.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery from high-risk prostatectomy is carefully managed to ensure optimal outcomes:
• Mild pain or swelling for several days
• Early ambulation within 24 hours
• Gradual return to daily activities within 2–4 weeks
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks
• Pelvic floor exercises to improve urinary continence
• Long-term PSA and functional monitoring
Korean hospitals provide structured after-care programs, patient education, and telemedicine support for international patients.
Results & Longevity
High-risk prostatectomy provides excellent functional and oncological outcomes:
• Effective removal of high-risk or locally advanced prostate cancer
• Accurate lymph node staging for tailored adjuvant therapy
• Preservation of urinary continence and sexual function when feasible
• Short hospital stay and early return to daily life
• Long-term PSA monitoring ensures early detection of recurrence
Korea’s expertise in robotic urologic surgery ensures safe, precise, and durable results for high-risk patients.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a preferred destination for high-risk prostatectomy due to:
• Highly experienced robotic urologic surgeons specializing in complex cases
• Internationally accredited hospitals with advanced robotic systems
• Minimally invasive approach reducing complications and recovery time
• Efficient medical tourism services including interpreters and travel coordination
• Short waiting times and streamlined surgical scheduling
• Competitive costs compared to Western countries
• Comprehensive postoperative care and rehabilitation programs
These factors make Korea an ideal choice for patients seeking advanced prostate cancer surgery with optimal outcomes.
Cost Range
The cost of high-risk prostatectomy in Korea typically ranges from USD 20,000 – 40,000, depending on:
• Hospital category (general vs. premium international center)
• Surgical complexity and robotic technology used
• Preoperative diagnostics and imaging
• Length of hospital stay and follow-up care
Many hospitals offer all-inclusive packages covering surgery, diagnostics, hospitalization, and postoperative care for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals offering high-risk prostatectomy in Korea include:
• Samsung Medical Center
• Asan Medical Center
• Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)
• Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Health System)
• Korea University Anam Hospital
• W Hospital Urology Center
• BnU Urology Clinic
• Chung-Ang University Hospital
These institutions provide advanced robotic surgery, expert surgeons, and comprehensive international patient support.
