Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery is minimally invasive surgery performed with a robotic system that the surgeon fully controls. Through small incisions, it offers magnified 3D vision and instruments that move with great precision. It is used across urology, gynecology, and general and thoracic surgery — for prostate, kidney and gynecologic procedures among others — and can mean a faster recovery.
Medically reviewed by the Florence Healthcare medical team · Last reviewed June 2026
Overview
In robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon operates from a console, controlling robotic arms that hold a high-definition 3D camera and fine instruments inserted through small incisions. The system translates the surgeon's hand movements into precise, steady movements inside the body, with a range of motion greater than the human wrist. The surgeon is in full control at all times — the robot does not act on its own.
Because it works through small incisions with precise instrument control, robotic surgery can offer benefits over open surgery for suitable procedures: less blood loss, smaller scars, less pain and a quicker recovery. It is widely used for prostatectomy, kidney surgery, hysterectomy and other gynecologic, general and thoracic operations, though it is not the best choice for every patient or every operation.
Our teams apply robotic techniques where they offer a clear clinical benefit. International patients receive a coordinator, a clear plan and a transparent cost estimate before travel, including the expected recovery time, and the surgeon advises whether a robotic, laparoscopic or open approach is best for the individual case.
Who is a candidate?
- People needing prostate, kidney or bladder surgery suitable for a robotic approach
- Patients requiring gynecologic surgery such as hysterectomy or removal of fibroids
- Those needing certain general or thoracic operations where robotics offers a benefit
- People who may benefit from smaller incisions and a potentially faster recovery
- Patients whose surgeon confirms a robotic approach suits their specific case
What happens
- 1
Assessment and planning
Your surgeon reviews your imaging and condition and confirms whether a robotic approach is the best option compared with laparoscopic or open surgery.
- 2
Preparation
You are prepared for general anesthesia, and the team explains the procedure, the small-incision approach and the expected recovery.
- 3
The operation
From a console beside you, the surgeon controls robotic arms holding a 3D camera and fine instruments through small incisions, operating with magnified vision and precise movement.
- 4
Early recovery
Because incisions are small, many patients have less pain and are mobile soon after surgery, often with a shorter hospital stay than open surgery.
- 5
Follow-up
You receive a recovery plan and follow-up schedule. International patients can be supported remotely once they return home.
Benefits
- Small incisions, which can mean less pain, less blood loss and smaller scars
- Magnified 3D vision and precise instrument control for the surgeon
- Often a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery than open surgery
- Used across urology, gynecology, and general and thoracic surgery
- The surgeon remains in full control throughout — the robot does not act independently
Risks & considerations
- The general risks of surgery and anesthesia — bleeding, infection and clots
- Occasionally, conversion to open surgery if needed for safety during the operation
- Not suitable for every patient or every type of operation
- Results for the underlying condition depend on the diagnosis, not the technique alone
- Specific risks depend on the particular procedure being performed
Conditions this treats
Where it is performed
This procedure is delivered by our Robotic Surgery Center.
Learn more before you decide
Provider-reviewed guides on the related conditions, symptoms and tests in our Health Library.
Robotic Surgery — frequently asked questions
It is minimally invasive surgery performed with a robotic system that the surgeon fully controls, allowing precise movements through small incisions with high-definition 3D vision. The surgeon directs every movement — the robot does not operate on its own.
For suitable procedures, robotic surgery can mean smaller incisions, less blood loss, less pain and a quicker recovery. Your surgeon advises whether it is appropriate for your case.
We use robotic techniques across urology (such as prostatectomy and kidney surgery), gynecology (such as hysterectomy), and general and thoracic surgery, where they offer a clear clinical benefit.
Yes. The surgeon is in full control throughout, supported by magnified vision and precise instruments. As with any surgery there are risks, and occasionally an operation is converted to open surgery if that is safer.
Robotic procedures often allow a shorter stay than open surgery — frequently one to three nights — plus follow-up before flying. Your coordinator confirms the plan. We provide a transparent, itemized estimate after reviewing your case rather than a fixed online price.
Related treatments
Considering robotic surgery?
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