The impact of urinary incontinence on the quality of life among 50 men (average age 67 years) after radical prostatectomy was assessed by a self-administered questionnaire. The majority were not restricted by incontinence, whereas 26% of the men reported limitations in the usual physical activity and more than half reported moderate to severe emotional distress. Of 33 patients evaluated less than 5 years postoperatively 26 (79%) would choose surgery again despite incontinence, whereas 9 of 17 (53%) evaluated after 5 years were unsure or would not. Objective quality of life information may help to improve nonoperative intervention strategies for the incontinent patient.