At Perito Urology we aim to provide comprehensive guidance to patients undergoing penile implant surgery.
A critical aspect of this process is understanding the recovery timeline, which helps patients set realistic expectations and ensure a smooth healing journey. We’ll break down the recovery process week by week, based on insights from Dr. Alfie Suarez-Sarmiento in the “Penile Implants 102” episode of ‘Meet the Penis’ found on our Perito Urology YouTube Channel.
Week 1: Immediate Post-Surgery Care
On the day of your penile implant surgery, you’ll be sent home with a Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain in place. This small drainage device helps remove excess blood and fluid from the surgical area, reducing the risk of complications. Managing the JP drain is straightforward—our team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to empty it properly, and you can also refer to Episode 86 of “Meet the Penis” for helpful instructions on how to use your JP drain.
Typically, the JP drain is removed by our staff around 2 to 3 days post-surgery. During this initial recovery period, it’s essential to rest and avoid any strenuous activities. Focus on taking your prescribed medications, following your doctor’s advice, and allowing your body to start healing.
By the end of the first week, once the drain is out, you may begin light activities like driving short distances or taking brief walks, but remember to take it easy.
Week 2: Gradual Increase in Activity
As you progress into the second week of recovery, you should begin feeling more comfortable moving around. At this stage, longer walks are usually permissible, but listening to your body and avoiding overexertion is crucial. If you experience pain or discomfort, scale back your activities and prioritize rest.
During this week, staples from your surgery will typically be removed, usually around the 12 to 14-day mark. Removing the staples marks a significant step in your healing journey, but keep in mind that your body is still in recovery mode. Continue to avoid intense physical activities.
Week 3: Reintroducing Light Exercise
By the third week, you can reintroduce light exercise into your routine. Gentle stretching and light cardio exercises are generally acceptable, but avoiding anything too strenuous is important. Some patients may be ready to begin cycling their implants or initiate sexual activity during this period, but these steps should only be taken after receiving clearance from our staff at Perito Urology.
Restrictions still apply in Week 3; patients should avoid lifting anything heavier than 25 pounds, as well as abdominal exercises, squats, or any movements that place undue strain on the surgical site. Your body’s recovery remains the top priority.
Week 4: Approaching Full Recovery
Around the 24 to 28-day mark, many patients find that most activity restrictions can be lifted, provided their healing is on track. However, this is contingent upon a follow-up visit with our team at Perito Urology.
We emphasize the importance of listening to your body—if you’re still experiencing soreness or notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our goal is to support you through every step of your recovery.
Throughout the entire recovery process, it’s crucial to avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, or any form of submersion until your staples are removed and you receive the all-clear from our staff. This precaution helps prevent infections and ensures proper healing of the surgical site.
A Personalized Approach to Recovery
At Perito Urology, we understand that each patient’s recovery journey is unique. While the timeline outlined here serves as a general guide, your individual experience may vary. Always follow the advice and post penile implant surgery instructions provided by our team, and never hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Our commitment to your health and well-being doesn’t end with surgery. We are here to provide the support and guidance you need throughout your recovery process. Thank you for trusting Perito Urology, and remember, your recovery is as important to us as it is to you. ‘
Stay tuned for more insightful content on men’s health, urology, sexual health and general well-being, and take care of yourself.