Penile implants are highly effective and can last for more than 15 years. Here are penile implant safety tips to save you from post-op complications.
Penile implants are an effective treatment option for erectile dysfunction and have a survival rate of more than 90% within the first 5 years and up to 60% for 15 years. Men with implants have reported a satisfaction rate of over 90% and around 60% could experience orgasms with ease.1
Penile implant surgery comes with risks such as implant malfunction, erosion, hematoma, chronic pain, and infection. How do you ensure you avoid complications from the surgery?
Top Penile Implant Safety Tips
Have a physical exam done
Before the surgery, your doctor will request an initial consultation. During this period, they will review your medical history and talk about your experience with erectile dysfunction. They will also conduct a physical examination to make sure that the implants are the best option for you.
The physical exam helps the doctor identify the nature of the ED and determine if there are medications that can treat it. This helps in ensuring that penile implants don’t pose any risks to your health and identify the type of implant that would be appropriate for you.
Avoid intense physical activities for a while
You should refrain from undertaking physical activities after the surgery for at least 2-3 days to avoid aggravating the swelling. All intensive activities should be put on hold for around 2 weeks to give time for the wound to heal.
It is advisable that you take time off work during this period and simply rest.
Keep the surgical wound dry
After the surgery, make sure the wound doesn’t get in contact with water (swimming pool, hot tub). Even though showering is recommended, keep the surgical wound dry until it is fully healed and water cannot seep in.
Unless your doctor instructs otherwise, refrain from interfering with the stitches. The sutures usually dissolve on their own and trying to remove them will only take you longer to heal and can cause infections.
Go for the post-op follow up
Your doctor will provide you with painkillers to deal with the pain and antibiotics to prevent infections. A follow-up consultation is usually scheduled at least one week after the surgery to assess your progress and check on the wound. Going for this visit ensures that any complications are identified and dealt with early enough.
After 6 weeks, you will be requested to go for another review, but this time focus will be on teaching you the proper and safe techniques for using the implants. You are also taught what to do when the implant doesn’t activate or deflate.
More penile implant safety tips
Ensure that the surgery is done by a qualified doctor as most complications are caused by a surgical error. You should also discuss your expectations with the doctor and make sure you are aware of the risks that come with the surgery.
Follow all post-op care instructions your doctor gives you to minimize the risk of complications.
Links to sources used
- Long-term survival and patient satisfaction with an inflatable penile prosthesis for the treatment of erectile dysfunction- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4462637/