Patients undergoing penile implant surgery should follow their pre- and postop patient instructions carefully, cautions Dr. Perito. This will help to ensure an expedient recovery and a quicker return to a normal sexual function. Read on to find answers to frequently asked questions about penile implant surgery.
ARE THERE ANY OVER THE COUNTER DRUGS THAT SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN BEFORE SURGERY?
Patients should abstain from taking aspirin for one week (7 days) prior to a penile implant procedure, says Dr. Perito.
HOW IS THE OPERATIVE AREA STERILIZED?
Perito Urology patients are given an antibiotic as well as a container of surgical soap that needs to be used beginning one day prior to surgery.
CAN I EAT PRIOR TO MY PENILE IMPLANT PROCEDURE?
No, patients are advised not to consume any food or drink after midnight the night before the penile implant surgery. This includes water. Doing so may delay the procedure.
IS POSTOPERATIVE BRUISING NORMAL?
Yes, as is swelling. Both will generally resolve between seven and fourteen days.
WHAT ARE THE PHYSICAL RESTRICTIONS AFTER RECEIVING A PENILE IMPLANT?
Since penile implants are a surgically implanted device, care should be taken to avoid overexertion in the days and weeks following the procedure. The first 48 hours post-operatively should involve minimal activity and ice on the groin. Perito Urology patients are advised to lift no more than 10 pounds for two weeks. Showers may be taken on day two. The patient should begin hot shower direct soaks at 5 days (7 days if diabetic).
WHAT PAIN MEDICATIONS ARE RECOMMENDED FOLLOWING PENILE IMPLANT SURGERY?
Aleve® is recommended for up to two weeks. Pain medications may cause constipation, which will put pressure on the area and should be taken only to provide comfort.
AFTER THE PENILE IMPLANT IS IN PLACE, WHAT HAPPENS TO THE STITCHES AND BANDAGES?
Dr. Perito uses stitches to close the incision that are absorbable and require no patient action. There are small strips that cover the incision. These will likely fall off unnoticed in the shower. Additional bandages require removal.
WHAT POSITION SHOULD THE PENIS REST AFTER SURGERY? ?
For the first three days, the penis should be kept against the abdomen using the scrotal support tape that is supplied. After 72 hours, all penile implant patients should gently pull down on the penis several times a day while massaging the incision.
WHEN CAN THE PENILE IMPLANTS BE USED?
By 4 to 6 weeks most of Dr. Perito’s patients report that a normal an active sex life has been resumed.