When a man receives a prostate cancer diagnosis, it is common to feel overwhelmed by the choices ahead. For patients living outside the United States, navigating local healthcare systems can sometimes mean facing long waiting lists, limited access to advanced technology, or surgeons who perform fewer procedures annually. To secure the highest probability of a cancer-free life without sacrificing long-term quality of life, an increasing number of international patients choose to travel to New York.
At the Samadi Robotics Center, located in the New York area, Dr. David Samadi provides world-class urologic oncology care and a white-glove concierge experience for global patients. By choosing to travel for the SMART (Samadi Modified Advanced Robotic Technique) Prostatectomy, international patients gain immediate access to one of the most experienced robotic surgeons in the world, with minimal downtime. Let’s explore why patients from across the globe choose New York for their prostate cancer treatment.
What is the SMART Prostatectomy?
The SMART (Samadi Modified Advanced Robotic Technique) Prostatectomy is a state-of-the-art, minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove the prostate gland in patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Pioneered by Dr. David Samadi, the procedure is performed using the advanced da Vinci robotic surgical system.
Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions and a lengthy hospital stay, the SMART approach utilizes tiny, well-concealed incisions in the lower abdomen. The da Vinci system provides the surgeon with high-definition 3D visualization and highly articulated robotic instruments that mimic and improve the movements of the human hand.
This level of precision allows for the delicate separation of the prostate gland from the surrounding nerves and tissues. For patients, it means significantly less blood loss, a dramatically shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to normal daily activities. Dr. David Samadi’s approach is unique because he removes the prostate from the “inside out,” minimizing damage to the surrounding structures that control continence and potency.
Why International Patients Choose New York for Prostate Cancer Surgery
For patients traveling from Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, the decision to leave their home country for surgery is driven by the desire for the best possible outcome. A prostate cancer diagnosis requires immediate, highly focused attention, and the stress of a delayed procedure can take a severe mental and physical toll.
Traveling to New York for expedited prostate cancer treatment offers numerous advantages:
- Immediate Access to World-Class Care: Bypass systemic wait times and begin your healing journey without delay.
- Access to Masters in the Field: Dr. David Samadi has performed over 10,000 successful robotic procedures, placing him in the top tier of urologic oncologists worldwide.
- Innovative, Heat-Free Procedures: Gain access to specialized treatments, such as Dr. Samadi’s athermal (heat-free) nerve-sparing approach, which reduces thermal injury to delicate nerve tissues.
- Comprehensive Concierge Support: A dedicated international team ensures that medical records, logistics, and travel arrangements are handled smoothly.
Advanced Techniques Pioneered by Dr. David Samadi
Dr. David Samadi is widely recognized as a global leader in urologic oncology and robotic surgery. His commitment to surgical refinement and patient-first medicine has led to breakthroughs that optimize both cancer control and post-operative quality of life.
- 10,000+ Procedures and Counting
Dr. Samadi has completed over 10,000 robotic prostatectomies. This level of surgical volume ensures unparalleled anatomical intuition and precision. Whether dealing with routine or complex, high-risk cases, Dr. Samadi’s experience ensures optimal outcomes.
- The Athermal “Inside-Out” Technique
Dr. Samadi’s proprietary method is designed to avoid the use of heat or electrocautery near the delicate nerve bundles. By avoiding thermal spread, the microscopic nerves responsible for erectile function are protected and preserved, leading to significantly higher rates of potency recovery.
- High Continence and Potency Success Rates
The SMART technique avoids damaging the urinary sphincter. As a result, the vast majority of Dr. Samadi’s patients achieve full urinary control almost immediately after catheter removal, avoiding months of post-surgical incontinence.
The Step-by-Step Travel and Recovery Journey
Traveling for surgery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The process at the Samadi Robotics Center is organized to be safe, straightforward, and relaxing for patients and their families.
- Remote Consultation and Evaluation
You do not need to fly to New York initially. Dr. Samadi’s team arranges comprehensive telehealth consultations via Zoom or phone to review your PSA levels, MRI scans, and biopsy results, establishing a clear surgical plan before you ever book a flight.
- Travel and Logistical Support
The concierge team assists with:
- Gathering and organizing all necessary pre-operative medical records.
- Providing official medical documentation and letters for international travel and visa assistance.
- Recommending premium, luxury accommodations near the medical facility for comfortable pre- and post-surgery rest.
- Arrival & Pre-Op Preparation
Upon arriving in the New York area, you will meet Dr. Samadi in person. A physical exam and necessary pre-operative tests are completed to ensure you are fully prepared for the procedure.
- The Surgical Procedure
The da Vinci robotic prostate surgery is performed at St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center. The procedure generally takes under 90 minutes in expert hands. You will spend time recovering in a private recovery suite before being discharged within 24 hours.
- Recovery & Follow-up in the New York Area
Patients are encouraged to rest and walk for 7 to 10 days in the pleasant environment of Long Island or Manhattan. The catheter is removed in the office on Day 7–8, after which most patients are cleared to fly home.
Benefits of Choosing Advanced Robotic Prostate Surgery
When international patients choose to travel for Dr. Samadi’s robotic prostate cancer treatment, they experience several significant advantages:
- Minimal Blood Loss and Pain: The precision of the robotic instruments drastically reduces trauma to surrounding pelvic organs.
- Short Hospital Stay: 99% of Dr. Samadi’s patients are discharged within 24 hours.
- Rapid Recovery Time: Most patients are cleared to travel home within 7 to 8 days following the procedure.
- Outstanding Cancer Control: Dr. Samadi’s precision ensures that the prostate and all cancerous tissues are removed completely, with the goal of an undetectable long-term PSA.
When to Travel for Prostate Cancer Treatment
The right time to travel is shortly after a prostate cancer diagnosis. Delaying life-saving treatment due to systemic backlogs can cause unnecessary psychological stress. Acting quickly allows for a definitive cure and the best possible recovery timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why choose the Long Island/New York location?
Dr. Samadi performs surgeries at St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center on Long Island due to its specialized, world-class surgical environment, outstanding nursing care, and focus on patient-centered recovery.
How soon can I fly home after surgery?
Patients are typically cleared to fly home within 7 to 8 days post-operation, once the catheter is removed. We recommend booking an aisle seat so you can stand and walk around the cabin to maintain proper circulation.
Can my local doctor assist with my follow-up care?
Yes. Dr. Samadi’s team maintains regular communication with your primary care physician or local urologist, sharing all pathology results and surgical notes to ensure a seamless continuation of care in your home country.
How long is the actual surgery?
In Dr. Samadi’s hands, the SMART prostatectomy typically takes under 90 minutes.
Conclusion + CTA
Being diagnosed with prostate cancer does not mean you have to wait in pain or accept less than optimal outcomes due to a backlog in your local healthcare system. Traveling to New York for treatment gives you access to a world-renowned specialist who has performed over 10,000 successful procedures, as well as access to modern, proven procedures such as the SMART Surgery technique.
CTA: Contact the Samadi Robotics Center today to schedule your consultation and expedite your prostate cancer treatment.
212-365-5000