Hi AfterDark,
A primary consideration here is the specific reason for and type of surgery involved, neither of which has as yet been mentioned. The nature (e.g., severely enlarged prostate, prostate cancer) and surgical treatment (e.g., laparoscopic, open) of the disease have significant and particular implications for healing times.
Differing surgical approaches involve varying degrees of invasiveness and anticipated healing times. On average, a patient undergoing a partial resection via robotic-assisted laparoscopy is going to be back in action much more rapidly than one undergoing radical prostatectomy via open surgery. And then there may be the consideration of whether chemotherapy, radiation or other treatment(s) will follow.
Depending on the technique applied and general health of the individual, as a very general rule patients undergoing prostatectomy can expect to go home anywhere from 1-4 days post-surgery. Again as a very general rule, the majority of these patients are back to most normal daily activities within 1-3 weeks, but with activities that involve heavy lifting, as can be the case with scuba, the operated diver would be well-advised to allow 4-6 weeks or more before resuming tank hauling and the like.
In the final analysis, diving should not be resumed without specific clearance from the treating surgeon.
Best of luck,
DocVikingo
This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.