What is the recovery process like after penile curvature correction?
The recovery process after penile curvature correction surgery depends on the type of surgery performed. The most common types of surgery are plication and grafting.
Plication is a procedure in which the surgeon makes small cuts in the penis and then stitches the tunica albuginea (the tough outer layer of the penis) together to straighten the shaft.
Grafting is a procedure in which the surgeon removes the plaque that causes the curvature and then replaces it with a graft of tissue from another part of the body.
Recovery from plication surgery
Most patients can go home from the hospital on the same day as surgery. You will likely have some pain and swelling for a few weeks after surgery. You may also have bruising and difficulty urinating.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your penis after surgery. These instructions may include:
- Keeping your penis clean and dry
- Applying ice packs to reduce swelling
- Taking pain medication
- Wearing a loose-fitting support garment
- Avoiding sexual activity for 4-6 weeks
Recovery from grafting surgery
Most patients can go home from the hospital the day after surgery. You will likely have some pain and swelling for a few weeks after surgery. You may also have bruising and difficulty urinating.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your penis after surgery. These instructions may include:
- Keeping your penis clean and dry
- Applying ice packs to reduce swelling
- Taking pain medication
- Wearing a loose-fitting support garment
- Avoiding sexual activity for 6-8 weeks
General recovery tips
Here are some general tips for recovering from penile curvature correction surgery:
- Get plenty of rest.
- Avoid strenuous activity.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Take all medications as prescribed by your doctor.
If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, be sure to talk to your doctor.
The recovery process after penile curvature correction surgery can vary depending on the specific procedure performed and individual factors. Here is a general overview of what to expect during the recovery period:
- Immediate Postoperative Period:
- Hospital Stay: Most penile curvature correction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home on the same day. However, in some cases, an overnight hospital stay may be required.
- Dressing and Bandages: The surgical site may be covered with dressings or bandages to protect the incisions and reduce swelling. These may be removed or changed during a follow-up appointment.
- Pain Management: You may experience some discomfort or pain after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage this.
- First Few Days to Weeks:
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising around the surgical site are common and should gradually improve over the first few weeks.
- Rest and Limited Activity: You will likely be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a period specified by your surgeon. This may include refraining from sexual activity and heavy lifting.
- Follow-Up Appointments: You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and assess the surgical site. Sutures or staples, if used, may be removed during these appointments.
- Care of Incision Site: Keep the surgical site clean and dry as per your surgeon’s instructions. You may also be advised to avoid baths, swimming, and hot tubs during the early recovery phase.
- Long-Term Recovery:
- Resuming Sexual Activity: Your surgeon will provide guidance on when it is safe to resume sexual activity. This may vary depending on the type of surgery and individual healing.
- Potential Erectile Function: If you underwent a procedure to correct both curvature and erectile dysfunction, you may be able to achieve erections and engage in sexual activity as the healing process progresses. Penile rehabilitation exercises and medications may be recommended.
- Scarring: Scarring is a potential outcome of surgery, and its appearance can vary from person to person. Your surgeon may provide recommendations for managing and minimizing scarring.
- Follow-Up Care: Continue to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. These visits are essential to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and ensure that healing is proceeding as expected.