Scott--My urologist, after delivering the news that surprised both me and him, said three important words: "You've got time". That was a real help to me to have the time to do the research we needed to do to make a decision my wife and I felt was the best option for us.
The first decision was whether to have surgery or brachytherapy or another option. We spent a long time researching and thinking about our choice, and settled on surgery. It was not a black-and-white decision, but one we knew was right for us after weighing all the factors that were important for us.
Then it was a question of open vs. robotic. That, too, was a personal choice based on a number of factors. I believe that robotic prostate removal will be the surgical treatment of choice in the near future. We went with open RPP because we trusted our urologist and his expertise with this surgery. That was the most important aspect to us.
I was in top physical condition before surgery and came out of it in good shape and recovered rapidly. I may have recovered a little sooner with robotic surgery, but that wasn't the most critical piece of our decision. I don't regret this decision, although I might have gone with robotic under different circumstances.
To repeat, the most important three words are "You've got time." Make your decision based on research, talking to those who have gone thru different approaches, and you will feel comfortable with the decision you make. Best to you, Scott!