What Is the Typical Recovery Process After Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Surgery?

Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) surgery is a common treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) who haven’t found success with other treatments like medication or injections, or who desire a permanent solution for their ED. It involves surgically inserting a penile implant into the penis that allows an individual to get an erection on demand by inflating the implant when necessary.

Individuals considering an IPP are likely curious about what the recovery process is like. Understanding the recovery process and what to expect during rehabilitation is important for patients considering this procedure to weigh their decisions and have peace of mind.

Immediate Post-Surgery Phase: What Happens Right After Surgery

IPP implantation is typically an outpatient surgery that takes about 60 to 90 minutes. The surgery may be performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital, and it is done under general or spinal anesthesia. Right after surgery, you’ll have a dressing placed around the penis and scrotum to protect the surgical area, which is usually removed within 24 hours. Patients may have a temporary catheter to drain urine, but this is usually removed shortly after surgery.

Pain Management: You can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising for the first few days. It’s normal to feel soreness in the groin, lower abdomen, or the base of the penis. To manage pain, healthcare providers typically prescribe pain relievers for the first week. Applying ice packs and wearing snug underwear or a jockstrap may also help with swelling.

The First Week: Getting Back on Your Feet

During the first week post-surgery, it’s important to take things slowly. You’ll likely be advised to limit physical activity and avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous movements. Walking around for short periods is encouraged to help with blood circulation and prevent complications like blood clots.

You’ll also receive instructions on how to care for the surgical area. Keeping the incision site clean and dry is critical to avoiding infection. Your provider may prescribe antibiotics for the first week as a preventive measure.

Two to Six Weeks Post-Surgery: Healing and Starting Rehabilitation

After the first week, most patients feel better, and the swelling and bruising begin to subside. By the second or third week, you may notice that the healing process is progressing well. However, it’s crucial to avoid any sexual activity, including masturbation, until your clinician specifies, which is usually about six weeks post-surgery.

At your follow-up appointments, your surgeon will check the implant to ensure it is healing correctly. Around four to six weeks after surgery, you’ll likely begin what is known as “cycling” the prosthesis, although some surgeons will recommend beginning sooner. This involves inflating and deflating the device to make sure that you’re comfortable using it and to begin to gently stretch the tissues around the prosthesis. The stretching of these tissues helps prevent scar tissue formation and ensures that the implant works effectively when you’re ready to resume sexual activity.

Resuming Normal Activities and Sexual Function

By the six-week mark, most patients are cleared to resume normal physical activities, including sexual intercourse. The timing may vary depending on how well the healing is progressing, so always follow your clinician’s recommendations.

Many patients report feeling more confident once they become accustomed to using the device. The prosthesis mimics a natural erection when inflated, and when deflated, the penis returns to a flaccid state. Learning to operate the device becomes easier with practice.

Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care

Although the physical healing is generally complete by six to eight weeks, it’s normal for patients to experience some emotional or psychological adjustments. Working with a healthcare provider or therapist who specializes in sexual health can help address any concerns. Rehabilitation also includes maintaining open communication with your partner, as this is an important part of sexual well-being.

Patients should continue regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to ensure the device remains in good working condition. The IPP is designed to last for several years, but like any medical device, it may require replacement down the road.

What to Watch Out For

While IPP surgery is generally safe, there are a few risks to be aware of. Although rare early on, the most common complications include infection or device malfunction. If you notice worsening pain, excessive swelling, redness, fever, or difficulty using the device, contact your provider right away.

Conclusion

Inflatable penile prosthesis surgery offers a reliable, long-term solution for men with ED, but it’s essential to understand the recovery process and follow your clinician’s guidance. With proper care, most patients experience a successful recovery and are able to return to a fulfilling, active sexual life.

For more information on this topic, please read these publications from the ISSM Journals: The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Sexual Medicine Reviews, and Sexual Medicine Open Access:

Dorsal Penile Nerve Block Prior to Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Placement: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Implantation in the Ambulatory Setting: A Systematic Review

References:

Chung, E., & Mulhall, J. (2021). Practical considerations in inflatable penile implant surgery. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 18(8), 1320–1327. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.05.017

Levine, L. A., Becher, E. F., Bella, A. J., Brant, W. O., Kohler, T. S., Martinez-Salamanca, J. I., Trost, L., & Morey, A. F. (2016). Penile Prosthesis Surgery: Current Recommendations From the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine. The journal of sexual medicine, 13(4), 489–518. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.01.017

Mayo Clinic. (2024, January 19). Penile implants. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/penile-implants/about/pac-20384916

Scherzer, N. D., Dick, B., Gabrielson, A. T., Alzweri, L. M., & Hellstrom, W. J. G. (2019). Penile prosthesis complications: Planning, prevention, and decision making. Sexual Medicine Reviews, 7(2), 349–359. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sxmr.2018.04.002