Recovery after Focal Therapy
Focal therapy is generally performed as a day case procedure. This means that you will be in and out of hospital on the same day. You will need someone to pick you up afterwards as you recover from the effects of the anaesthetic. If you’ve had the treatment later in the day, some people find they prefer to rest in a nearby hotel before travelling home the day after.
To reduce strain on your bladder and bowel after your treatment, we will fit you with a catheter. This will drain your urine without you needing to go to the bathroom. You’ll wear it for about a week, strapped to your leg, but it shouldn’t interfere with most day-to-day tasks.
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Guy’s Story
Guy received a diagnosis of early-stage prostate cancer based upon a well man check. He was encouraged to consider Active Surveillance but he wanted to put the diagnosis of prostate cancer behind him and to get on with his active life.
Two weeks after his HIFU treatment he was back on his bike.
Guy is a patient of Mr Tim Dudderidge
See more patient stories
Timeline of recovery
Recovery after focal therapy is generally quick and involves the following timeline:
- Day of Treatment
- Focal therapy is typically performed as a day case procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
- You will need someone to pick you up after the procedure due to the effects of anaesthesia.
- If the treatment is done later in the day, some people prefer to rest in a nearby hotel and travel home the next day.
- First 24–48 Hours
- Pain is uncommon, but bladder spasms may occur.
- These typically last 24–48 hours and can be managed with antispasmodic drugs and simple painkillers.
- First Week
- Most patients resume light activities within a week.
- Temporary symptoms like urgency or fatigue may occur but are usually mild compared to traditional treatments.
- Two Weeks
- Many men find they are back to living their life as they did before treatment within two weeks.
- This includes returning to normal physical activities, depending on their fitness level before the procedure.
- Monitoring and Follow-Up
- PSA levels are typically checked three months after treatment.
- An MRI scan is done between 9 and 12 months to ensure all cancer has been removed.
- For NanoKnife treatment, an MRI may also be done within the first two weeks as part of data collection requirements.
Immediate Post-Treatment Care
Leaving the Hospital:
Focal therapy is usually a day case procedure, so most patients go home within a few hours after the treatment.
Before leaving, you’ll need to eat, drink fluids, and be shown how to use a catheter if one is required.
If you’re travelling a long distance, you might prefer to stay in a nearby hotel overnight for added comfort and convenience.
Managing Discomfort:
Pain is uncommon, but bladder spasms may occur. These are the most frequent discomforts and typically last 24–48 hours.
Antispasmodic drugs and simple painkillers can help manage these symptoms, ensuring a smoother recovery.
Support at Home:
You’ll need someone to assist you after the procedure, especially for the first day, as you recover from the effects of anaesthesia.
Temporary Symptoms:
Some men may experience mild urinary urgency or fatigue immediately after the procedure, but these symptoms are usually short-lived.
Focal therapy is usually a day case procedure, so most patients go home within a few hours after the treatment.
Before leaving, you’ll need to eat, drink fluids, and be shown how to use a catheter if one is required.
If you’re travelling a long distance, you might prefer to stay in a nearby hotel overnight for added comfort and convenience.
Managing Discomfort:
Pain is uncommon, but bladder spasms may occur. These are the most frequent discomforts and typically last 24–48 hours.
Antispasmodic drugs and simple painkillers can help manage these symptoms, ensuring a smoother recovery.
Support at Home:
You’ll need someone to assist you after the procedure, especially for the first day, as you recover from the effects of anaesthesia.
Temporary Symptoms:
Some men may experience mild urinary urgency or fatigue immediately after the procedure, but these symptoms are usually short-lived.
Short-Term Recovery (First Few Weeks)
First Week:
Most patients resume light activities within a week.
Temporary symptoms like urinary urgency or fatigue may occur but are usually mild compared to traditional treatments.
Two Weeks:
Many men return to their normal life, including physical activities, within two weeks.
Recovery speed depends on your fitness level before treatment. Pelvic floor exercises may help if you engage in high-impact activities like running or tennis.
Work and Daily Life:
If you have a desk-based job, you may be able to return to work the next day.
For more active jobs, consult your doctor to understand any tasks to avoid immediately after treatment.
Most patients resume light activities within a week.
Temporary symptoms like urinary urgency or fatigue may occur but are usually mild compared to traditional treatments.
Two Weeks:
Many men return to their normal life, including physical activities, within two weeks.
Recovery speed depends on your fitness level before treatment. Pelvic floor exercises may help if you engage in high-impact activities like running or tennis.
Work and Daily Life:
If you have a desk-based job, you may be able to return to work the next day.
For more active jobs, consult your doctor to understand any tasks to avoid immediately after treatment.
Long-Term Recovery (1–3 Months)
Monitoring Your Progress:
PSA levels are typically checked 3 months after treatment to assess the effectiveness of the procedure.
An MRI scan is usually done between 9 and 12 months to ensure all cancer has been removed.
Physical Recovery:
By this stage, most men are fully back to their normal routines, including physical activities and work.
Any mild side effects, such as temporary changes in urinary flow or erections, are usually resolved by now.
Follow-Up Care:
Your final scheduled follow-up appointment will review the results of your PSA and MRI tests.
If any issues arise, the clinic remains available for ongoing support.
PSA levels are typically checked 3 months after treatment to assess the effectiveness of the procedure.
An MRI scan is usually done between 9 and 12 months to ensure all cancer has been removed.
Physical Recovery:
By this stage, most men are fully back to their normal routines, including physical activities and work.
Any mild side effects, such as temporary changes in urinary flow or erections, are usually resolved by now.
Follow-Up Care:
Your final scheduled follow-up appointment will review the results of your PSA and MRI tests.
If any issues arise, the clinic remains available for ongoing support.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular PSA Tests:
PSA levels are checked every 3 months initially to track treatment success.
A stable or reduced PSA level is a good sign that the cancer is under control.
MRI Scans:
An MRI scan is typically done between 9 and 12 months after treatment to confirm all cancer has been removed.
If you’ve had NanoKnife treatment, an additional MRI may be done within the first 2 weeks as part of data collection requirements.
Biopsies (If Needed):
If MRI or PSA results show any concerning changes, a biopsy may be recommended to check for recurrence.
Flexible Options for Recurrence:
If cancer returns (5–10% chance), further focal therapy or traditional treatments like surgery or radiotherapy remain viable options.
PSA levels are checked every 3 months initially to track treatment success.
A stable or reduced PSA level is a good sign that the cancer is under control.
MRI Scans:
An MRI scan is typically done between 9 and 12 months after treatment to confirm all cancer has been removed.
If you’ve had NanoKnife treatment, an additional MRI may be done within the first 2 weeks as part of data collection requirements.
Biopsies (If Needed):
If MRI or PSA results show any concerning changes, a biopsy may be recommended to check for recurrence.
Flexible Options for Recurrence:
If cancer returns (5–10% chance), further focal therapy or traditional treatments like surgery or radiotherapy remain viable options.
Possible Complications
Short-Term Side Effects:
Mild urinary urgency or temporary leakage, which usually resolves quickly.
Some men may experience mild pain between the testicles and rectum, manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol.
Erections and Sexual Function:
Temporary difficulty in getting or maintaining erections may occur but typically improves as the prostate heals.
Orgasmic sensation is preserved in most cases.
Bladder Control:
Bladder control remains intact for most men, with only temporary urgency-related leakage in some cases.
Rare Complications:
Serious issues like rectal damage or infections are very rare.
Cancer recurrence may happen in 5–10% of cases, but further treatment options are available.
Mild urinary urgency or temporary leakage, which usually resolves quickly.
Some men may experience mild pain between the testicles and rectum, manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol.
Erections and Sexual Function:
Temporary difficulty in getting or maintaining erections may occur but typically improves as the prostate heals.
Orgasmic sensation is preserved in most cases.
Bladder Control:
Bladder control remains intact for most men, with only temporary urgency-related leakage in some cases.
Rare Complications:
Serious issues like rectal damage or infections are very rare.
Cancer recurrence may happen in 5–10% of cases, but further treatment options are available.
Emotional and Mental Health Support
Why Mental Health Support Matters:
Many men experience anxiety, depression, or uncertainty during their cancer journey.
Mental health support can improve your quality of life, functioning, and even engagement with treatment.
Types of Support Available:
Counselling and Therapy: Most men benefit from lower-level counselling or psychological support rather than psychiatry.
Peer Support Groups: Talking with others who’ve had similar experiences can provide comfort and practical advice.
Exercise-Based Programmes: Activities like group exercise can boost mood and confidence while offering peer support.
Innovative Approaches:
Emerging technologies, like virtual reality, are being explored to support emotional wellbeing during treatment.
These tools can help patients manage stress and feel more in control.
Many men experience anxiety, depression, or uncertainty during their cancer journey.
Mental health support can improve your quality of life, functioning, and even engagement with treatment.
Types of Support Available:
Counselling and Therapy: Most men benefit from lower-level counselling or psychological support rather than psychiatry.
Peer Support Groups: Talking with others who’ve had similar experiences can provide comfort and practical advice.
Exercise-Based Programmes: Activities like group exercise can boost mood and confidence while offering peer support.
Innovative Approaches:
Emerging technologies, like virtual reality, are being explored to support emotional wellbeing during treatment.
These tools can help patients manage stress and feel more in control.
Return to Normal Life
Recovery Timeline:
Most men feel fully back to normal within 1 to 2 weeks.
Light activities can often be resumed within a few days, and normal physical activity soon after.
Physical Activity:
You can return to sports and exercise within 2 weeks, depending on your fitness level before treatment.
Pelvic floor exercises may help if you engage in high-impact activities like running or tennis.
Sexual and Urinary Function:
Most men maintain full bladder control and regain normal erections within a few months.
Medications like tadalafil can support recovery if needed.
Follow-Up Care:
Regular PSA tests and MRI scans will monitor your progress and ensure the cancer is under control.
If any issues arise, your care team will be there to support you.
Emotional Wellbeing:
It’s normal to feel a mix of relief and anxiety as you adjust to life after treatment.
Support groups or counselling can help you process your experience and move forward confidently.
Most men feel fully back to normal within 1 to 2 weeks.
Light activities can often be resumed within a few days, and normal physical activity soon after.
Physical Activity:
You can return to sports and exercise within 2 weeks, depending on your fitness level before treatment.
Pelvic floor exercises may help if you engage in high-impact activities like running or tennis.
Sexual and Urinary Function:
Most men maintain full bladder control and regain normal erections within a few months.
Medications like tadalafil can support recovery if needed.
Follow-Up Care:
Regular PSA tests and MRI scans will monitor your progress and ensure the cancer is under control.
If any issues arise, your care team will be there to support you.
Emotional Wellbeing:
It’s normal to feel a mix of relief and anxiety as you adjust to life after treatment.
Support groups or counselling can help you process your experience and move forward confidently.
Learn more about recovery after Focal Therapy
Mr Tim Dudderidge When can I go home after focal therapy
00:00:40
Playlist
Recovery after Focal Therapy Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Most patients go home within a few hours after focal therapy, once theyve eaten, had fluids, and been shown how to use the catheter. Those traveling far may choose to stay in a nearby hotel overnight for added convenience and comfort.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge Recovery after focal therapy
00:01:04
Playlist
Recovery after Focal Therapy Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Pain after focal therapy is uncommon, but bladder spasms are the most frequent discomfort, typically lasting 2448 hours. Antispasmodic drugs and simple painkillers help manage symptoms, ensuring a smoother recovery.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Marc Laniado What are the side effects of focal therapy
00:01:19
Playlist
Recovery after Focal Therapy Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Marc Laniado (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Focal therapy may temporarily affect urinary flow and erections, but side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Bladder control remains intact, and orgasmic sensation is preserved, making it a well-tolerated treatment option for prostate cancer.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Raj Nigam After focal therapy what tests are done to see if it was effective
00:01:38
Playlist
Recovery after Focal Therapy Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Raj Nigam (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): We closely monitor all focal therapy patients with regular PSA tests and MRI scans to track treatment success. If recurrence occurs (510%), further focal therapy or traditional treatments like surgery or radiotherapy remain viable options, ensuring flexible and effective cancer management.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge How long does it take to recover from focal therapy
00:01:25
Playlist
Recovery after Focal Therapy Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Recovery after focal therapy is quick. Most patients resume light activities within a week and return to normal physical activity soon after. Some may experience temporary urgency or fatigue, but side effects are typically mild compared to traditional treatments.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge Will I need a biopsy after focal therapy
00:00:54
Playlist
Recovery after Focal Therapy Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Routine biopsies after focal therapy are no longer standard. Now, biopsies are done only when necessary, based on abnormal MRI findings or rising PSA levels, reducing unnecessary procedures while ensuring effective cancer monitoring.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge Will I need to wear a pad after focal therapy
00:00:32
Playlist
Recovery after Focal Therapy Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Post-surgery pad use is usually due to sphincter damage, leading to long-term incontinence risks. In contrast, focal therapy may cause only temporary urgency-related leakage, with most patients regaining full bladder control quickly. Website: https://www.thefocaltherapyclinic.co.uk LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-focal-therapy-clinic/ Facebook: facebook.com/TheFocalTC Telephone: +44 (0) 207 036 8870 #FocalTherapy #ProstateHealth #MinimallyInvasive #MensHealth #ProstateCancerTreatment #Urology
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
“Yes, you can play in an ice hockey match twelve days post procedure with HIFU. I’m not promising you’ll be able to skate [though]...”
Nigel Harris
The Focal Therapy Clinic patient
Questions to ask your doctor or nurse
Am I a good candidate for HIFU prostate cancer treatment?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is ideal for men with localized, intermediate-risk prostate cancer. This typically includes a Gleason score of 3+4 or 4+3, a PSA level under 15–20 ng/mL, and cancer confined to one area of the prostate. It’s especially suitable if you want to avoid side effects like incontinence or erection problems, which are more common with surgery or radiotherapy. You should also be healthy enough to live at least 8–10 more years, and your MRI and biopsy should show a clearly targetable cancer spot.
Is HIFU available at your clinic, and how experienced is the team?
Yes, HIFU is available at The Focal Therapy Clinic. The clinic specialises in focal therapy treatments, including HIFU, which uses sound waves to precisely target and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. The team at the clinic has over 75 years of combined experience in urology, radiology, and oncology. They have treated over 2,000 patients and achieved excellent results, with 90% of men being free of clinically significant cancer one year after treatment. The clinic uses advanced 3D MRI imaging for precision and has been a leader in focal therapy for over 20 years.
How many times can HIFU be repeated if cancer comes back?
HIFU can be safely repeated if cancer returns in the treated area. Studies show that about 15–20% of men may need a second HIFU session, and it usually works well. Since HIFU targets only the cancerous area, the healthy parts of the prostate are preserved, making retreatment safer compared to surgery or radiotherapy. Follow-up PSA tests, MRI scans, and sometimes biopsies help determine if another treatment is needed. If HIFU fails more than once, other options like NanoKnife, surgery, or radiotherapy remain available.
What are the success rates and potential side effects for my specific case?
HIFU has shown strong success rates for men with localized, intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Here’s a breakdown:
Success Rates
Success Rates
- 88% of men avoid further treatment (like surgery or radiotherapy) for at least 5 years after one or more HIFU sessions.
- 98% have no cancer spread, and 99% are still alive overall.
- For Gleason 6 or 7 cancers, success rates are even higher.
- Urinary control: Only 2% of men need a pad for leaks temporarily.
- Erections: Over 90% of men maintain erections.
- Other risks: Mild urinary infections in about 8.5% of men within 6 months, but no severe bleeding reported.
What follow-up schedule should I expect?
After HIFU treatment, follow-up care is essential to monitor your recovery and check for any signs of cancer returning. Here’s what you can expect:
Follow-Up Schedule
Follow-Up Schedule
- PSA Tests: Every 3 months during the first year.
- MRI Scan: At 12 months to check for any areas of concern.
- Biopsy: Only if the MRI scan shows something unusual.
- Regular Checks: Monitoring for urinary or sexual function to ensure recovery is on track.
Frequently asked questions
When will I be discharged after HIFU treatment?
Most patients are discharged within a few hours after focal therapy. You can go home once you’ve eaten, had fluids, and been shown how to use the catheter. If you’re travelling a long distance, you might prefer to stay in a nearby hotel overnight for added comfort and convenience.
What are the expected side effects from focal therapy?
Focal therapy generally has fewer side effects compared to surgery or full-gland radiotherapy. Here are the most common side effects and their usual duration:
- Increased urinary frequency: Common, but usually temporary.
- Mild discomfort in the perineum area: Common, lasting 2–3 days.
- Erectile dysfunction: Rare (<5%) and usually temporary.
- Blood in urine or semen: Rare.
- Urinary catheter required: Sometimes, for 3–5 days.
- Risk of incontinence: Rare.
- Repeat treatment: Sometimes needed in the future.
What does recovery look like after focal therapy?
Recovery after focal therapy is typically quick and well-tolerated. Here’s what you can expect:
- Activity: Most patients resume light activities within a week and return to normal physical activity soon after.
- Bladder control: Remains intact, though you may experience temporary urgency or mild bladder spasms, which usually last 24–48 hours. These can be managed with antispasmodic drugs and simple painkillers.
- Erections: Temporary changes to erections may occur, but these are usually mild and short-lived.
- Orgasmic sensation: Preserved in most cases.
- Side effects: Generally mild compared to traditional treatments like surgery or radiotherapy.
Will I experience any problems sexually after focal therapy?
Focal therapy is designed to minimise sexual side effects by targeting only the cancerous part of the prostate and sparing the surrounding nerves and tissues. Here’s what you can expect:
- Erections: Most men (85–95%) maintain their ability to have erections, especially if function was good before treatment. Any changes are usually mild and temporary.
- Orgasmic sensation: Typically preserved.
- Management: If you do experience temporary changes, medications like tadalafil (Cialis) can help support recovery.
When can I return to work or perform physical activities?
The timing for returning to work or physical activities after focal therapy depends on your job type and overall health:
- Desk-based jobs: Many men can return to work the next day, needing only one day off.
- Active jobs: If your work involves physical activity, it’s best to rest until you feel ready. Discuss specific tasks with your doctor before resuming.
- Physical activities: Most men resume light activities within a week and return to normal physical activity soon after. High-impact activities like running or tennis may require pelvic floor exercises to support recovery.
How will you be monitoring my recovery?
Your recovery after focal therapy will be closely monitored to ensure the treatment’s success. Here’s what to expect:
- PSA tests: Your PSA levels will be checked 3 months after treatment to track progress.
- MRI scans: An MRI scan will typically be done between 9 and 12 months after treatment to confirm that all cancer has been removed.
- Follow-up appointments: The results of these tests will be reviewed with you during your final scheduled follow-up appointment. However, if you experience any problems, the clinic will always be available to support you.
- Additional monitoring for NanoKnife: If you’ve had NanoKnife treatment, you may also have an MRI within the first 2 weeks after treatment as part of data collection requirements.
Do you provide any mental health or wellbeing support?
Yes, mental health and wellbeing support is recognised as an important part of prostate cancer care. Here’s how it is addressed:
- Unmet mental health needs: There is a growing recognition of the need for mental health services among prostate cancer patients. This includes addressing anxiety, depression, and the emotional challenges of living with cancer.
- Integration into care: Efforts are being made to integrate mental health and psychological wellbeing into routine cancer services. This includes innovative approaches like digital technologies and virtual reality to support emotional wellbeing.
- Quality of life focus: Clinicians are encouraged to measure patient quality of life as a marker of treatment effectiveness, ensuring mental health is part of the overall care plan.
Any questions?
If you’ve got any questions about your prostate cancer diagnosis or want to know more about HIFU or NanoKnife, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team.
Contact the team
Reference List
Ahmed HU et al. (2015). Focal therapy for localized prostate cancer: a systematic review of the literature. Nature Reviews Urology.
Ganzer R, Fritsche HM, Brandtner A, et al. (2017). Five-year outcome of HIFU treatment for localized prostate cancer. Urologia Internationalis.
The Focal Therapy Clinic – Prostate Cancer Treatments (Internal Resource).
NHS Resources on Prostate Cancer (Internal/External Resource).
