Bladder surgery is most often performed to treat bladder cancer. However, a doctor may also recommend it for other bladder problems, including a dropped bladder (bladder prolapse) or loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence). Depending on your health, one of several procedures may be chosen. Recovering well afterwards is very achievable with the right care and habits.
Key Takeaways
- Good hygiene with your urinary pouch prevents leaks and odour.
- A gradual, balanced diet supports healing and keeps discomfort away.
- Light exercise and emotional support both play an important part in recovery.
Types of bladder surgery
- Cystectomy: In this operation, the surgeon removes either part or all of the bladder. It is usually performed for bladder cancer, to stop the tumour from spreading.
- Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT): Using a long, thin instrument with a camera at one end, the surgeon locates and removes the bladder tumour. You can read more about TURBT bladder tumour surgery and what it involves.
- Urinary reconstruction and diversion: This surgery creates a new way for the body to store and pass urine.
- Retropubic suspension: Here the surgeon lifts a sagging bladder, moving it and the urethra back to their normal positions.
Bladder surgery can be a life-changing procedure. Afterwards you will usually stay in hospital for a few days so the care team can monitor your recovery. The surgery can affect a patient's physical, mental and emotional well-being. If you or a loved one is about to undergo bladder removal, it is important to understand how to live healthily after the operation.
Hygiene practices after bladder surgery
After the surgery, the doctor may attach an external pouch to collect urine. Here is how to look after it.
- Empty the pouch when it is about one-third full to keep it lying flat.
- Place some toilet paper in the bowl to stop urine from splashing when you empty the pouch.
- Close the spout on the pouch after emptying or changing it.
- Change the pouch in the morning, before eating or drinking.
- You can use pouch deodorants to keep unpleasant smells away.
Dietary instructions after bladder surgery
What you eat contributes directly to your well-being, especially during recovery. After the surgery, the surgeon or their team will give you detailed instructions on what to eat, what to avoid and how to manage your diet.
- Start with small portions of food at regular intervals to prevent discomfort and bloating. Your digestive system will take time to return to normal, so avoid filling your stomach with large meals.
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This helps flush toxins from the body and keeps infections at bay.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine in any form, as they can irritate the new urinary system.
- Eat a fibre-rich diet with fruits, vegetables and lentils. Fibre in sensible amounts helps prevent constipation. Stick to a healthy diet in the long run to maintain your well-being.
- As you recover, gradually increase your protein intake with foods such as eggs and dairy products, which help with tissue repair.
Physical therapy after bladder surgery
Alongside a healthy diet, it is important to work on your physical fitness over the long term. Physical rehabilitation focuses on improving flexibility, strength, endurance and movement.
- Begin with light activity, such as walking or gently moving your ankles and legs, to avoid stiffness. Moving regularly improves blood circulation.
- As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the intensity from mild to moderate exercise, such as brisk walking and stretching, which improve your heart and lung function.
- Bladder surgery can weaken the abdominal muscles, so practise core-strengthening exercises to build up your abdominal and pelvic muscles.
Emotional support after bladder surgery
Bladder surgery can affect your emotional well-being, and the experience may feel overwhelming. You may go through a range of emotions that are hard to handle.
- Accept your feelings after the procedure. Your body goes through many changes, and refusing to accept them can take a toll on your mental health.
- It is perfectly fine to seek support from family, friends or a therapist. Talking about your feelings can make you feel lighter.
- You can connect with others, online or in person, who have been through the same experience. Sharing openly can help you feel more motivated.
- Support from your loved ones is one of the best ways to cope with emotional and mental strain. Communicate with them and let them know when you need help.
- Recovery after bladder removal is not always smooth, and there may be setbacks. Some people take longer than others. Rather than rushing, take small steps and celebrate small achievements, such as walking without support.
Takeaway
You can live a full and healthy life after bladder surgery by following the guidance above consistently. If you notice bleeding, side effects or any other discomfort, contact your doctor for medical assistance. If you are unsure about symptoms such as blood in the urine, it is always best to have them checked.
Every treatment plan starts with a proper assessment, so you only get the care your condition actually needs. If you have symptoms or a question about your health, book a consultation with Dr. Anish Gupta.