Educational information only — not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation.
Content last checked: Jul 15, 2026·Sources & review
second opinion · Prostate Cancer
Should I get a second opinion for prostate cancer?
Short answer
A second opinion can help confirm risk stratification and compare surveillance, surgery, and radiation. It is useful when recommendations diverge or when genomics/imaging interpretation is uncertain.
Why patients ask this
Prostate cancer has multiple guideline-supported pathways, so independent review can clarify fit for a patient's priorities.
Key factors to consider
- Discordant recommendations
- Interest in surveillance versus treatment
- Need for pathology or imaging re-review
- Access to high-volume specialists
- Patient priorities around urinary and sexual function
Questions to ask your doctor
Bring these to your next visit to clarify the decision in front of you.
- Would another pathologist review change risk group?
- How do your outcomes compare for surgery versus radiation in my risk group?
- Should genomic testing inform this decision?
Before you leave
Your next step
You are at second opinion. Do these three things next:
- Write down what is still unknown
- Ask which next result would change the plan
- List the questions you will bring to your next visit
Bring this question to your visit: “Would another pathologist review change risk group?”