Question 1

What is Retzius-sparing robotic prostatectomy and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The Retzius-sparing (posterior) approach preserves the anatomical structures at the front of the bladder that are critical for early urinary continence. In traditional robotic prostatectomy, these are divided. By going behind the bladder instead, Mr Ameen achieves continence recovery that is typically 4–6 weeks faster than the standard approach. Most of his patients are pad-free or using one small pad within 4–6 weeks of catheter removal.

Question 2

How long will I be in hospital after a robotic prostatectomy?

Accepted Answer

Most patients stay 1–2 nights. You will wake up with a urinary catheter in place, which is removed at approximately 10 days at a follow-up clinic. You'll be walking the same day as surgery. Most men return to light activities within 2 weeks and full activity including exercise by 6–8 weeks.

Question 3

Do I need a GP referral to see Mr Torath Ameen privately?

Accepted Answer

No. You can book a private consultation directly without a GP referral. However, a referral letter and any previous test results or imaging will be very helpful to the consultation. If your insurer requires a GP referral for reimbursement, please check their policy before booking.

Question 4

How quickly can I get an appointment with Mr Ameen?

Accepted Answer

Private consultation appointments are typically available within 1–2 weeks. For urgent cases (visible haematuria, rapidly rising PSA, suspected cancer), please call directly on 0204 558 6750 and a priority appointment will be arranged. Mr Ameen personally reviews all urgent referrals.

Question 5

Does an elevated PSA mean I have prostate cancer?

Accepted Answer

No. PSA can be elevated for several reasons including a large benign prostate (BPH), prostatitis or inflammation, recent ejaculation or vigorous exercise, or urinary tract infection. However, an elevated PSA does need careful evaluation by a specialist. Mr Ameen will interpret your PSA in the context of your age, prostate size, symptoms and family history before recommending any further investigation.

Question 6

Do I always need my whole kidney removed for kidney cancer?

Accepted Answer

Not always. For tumours smaller than 4–7 cm, a partial nephrectomy — removing only the tumour and preserving the rest of the kidney — is often possible and is the preferred option to protect long-term kidney function. Mr Ameen performs robotic partial nephrectomy for eligible tumours, achieving cancer control rates equivalent to total removal while preserving kidney function.

Question 7

What is the difference between Aquablation and TURP for prostate enlargement?

Accepted Answer

TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) uses heat energy to remove prostate tissue and is the established gold standard. Aquablation uses a robotically-guided high-pressure waterjet, which is inherently cool and removes tissue without heat. This means significantly lower rates of retrograde ejaculation (dry orgasm) — approximately 10% versus 65–90% for TURP — making it particularly suitable for sexually active men. Both achieve similar improvements in urinary symptoms.

Question 8

Which private health insurers does Mr Torath Ameen accept?

Accepted Answer

Mr Ameen is recognised by Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva and most other major UK private health insurers. Please confirm your policy details and any authorisation requirements directly with your insurer prior to booking. Self-pay patients are also very welcome at transparent fixed prices.

Question 9

Where does Mr Torath Ameen practice in London?

Accepted Answer

Mr Ameen sees private patients at three locations: the Wellington Hospital in St John's Wood (NW8), 9 Harley Street in Marylebone (W1G), and Chase Lodge Hospital in London. He also holds an NHS consultant post at West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (Watford General Hospital), accessible via NHS e-Referral.

Question 10

Will I be incontinent after robotic prostatectomy?

Accepted Answer

Some degree of urinary leakage is common in the first few weeks after catheter removal. With the Retzius-sparing technique, the majority of Mr Ameen's patients achieve social continence (pad-free or one small pad) within 4–6 weeks. Pelvic floor exercises started before surgery significantly improve recovery. The vast majority of patients are fully continent at 12 months.

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