17 Oct What To Expect Before, During, and After Penile Implant Surgery
Penile implant surgery is a treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) who have not responded to non-surgical treatments, such as oral medications, penile injections, vacuum devices, therapy, or lifestyle changes. This procedure involves the surgical insertion of a prosthesis into the penis to achieve and maintain an erection. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after the surgery can help patients prepare for the procedure and manage the recovery process effectively.
Before the Surgery
The first step before penile implant surgery is a comprehensive consultation with Dr Alistair Campbell at the Erectile Dysfunction Clinic. During this meeting, the patient’s overall health, such as medical history, current medications, and any underlying medical conditions, will be thoroughly assessed. By looking into these factors, the patient’s suitability for the procedure can be determined. In addition, the types of penile implants available, such as inflatable or malleable implants, will also be discussed. The choice of implants will depend on the patient’s specific needs, lifestyle, and overall health.
In addition, patients will also need to undergo several tests, such as blood tests or ultrasound, to determine the root cause of ED. Blood tests may reveal a hormonal imbalance or an underlying medical condition that could affect erectile function. On the other hand, an ultrasound may help assess the blood flow to the penis and determine what contributes to ED.
To lower the risk of complications, patients will be advised to adjust or stop certain medications, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs. This is because these medications can increase the risk of bleeding during and after the surgery. Smoking cessation is also highly recommended, as nicotine in cigarettes can slow down the wound healing process by causing the blood vessels to constrict. Moreover, patients are also advised to avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of complications by affecting the body’s clotting mechanism.
During the Surgery
The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia. General anaesthesia puts a patient to sleep during the surgery. On the other hand, spinal anaesthesia numbs the lower half of the body. The type of anaesthesia to be used will depend on the extent of the procedure, the patient’s overall health, and the recommendations of the surgeon.
The surgery itself usually takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the type of implant used. During the procedure, the surgeon creates a small incision either at the base of the penis or in the lower abdomen. For inflatable implants, the surgeon inserts the cylinders inside the penis, along with a pump in the scrotum and a fluid reservoir in the lower abdomen. For malleable implants, two bendable rods are inserted directly into the shaft of the penis.
Once the implant is inserted, the surgeon will position it and close the incision with sutures. Sterile bandages will be applied to the incision sites to protect the wound and prevent infection.
After the Surgery
After the surgery, medical staff will monitor the patient in the recovery room. It is normal to experience pain, swelling, and bruising around the incision site. As the effects of anaesthesia subside, patients will likely experience more discomfort. Pain relief medications and anti-inflammatories will be provided to address this. Once the patient is stable, he can go home, provided a friend or family member is present. It is important to remember that patients may still feel groggy or dizzy after the surgery due to the effects of anaesthesia, making it difficult to drive.
During the first few days, any strenuous activities should be avoided to prevent putting strain or pressure on the incision sites. This can help lower the risk of wound reopening or further injury to the surgical area. Patients may also need to take the prescribed medications, such as antibiotics, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatories. To monitor the healing progress, patients need to attend all follow-up appointments.
Most patients can resume light activities, such as walking, within a few days of surgery. However, heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and sexual activity should be avoided for about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the surgeon’s recommendations and individual healing factors. Full recovery can be achieved after several weeks to a few months.
Reasons to Choose Dr Campbell for Penile Implant Surgery in Gold Coast
Dr Alistair Campbell is a urological surgeon in the Gold Coast and is one of the highest-volume penile prosthesis implanters in Australia, having performed over one thousand implants. His fellowship in andrology and leadership roles in urological departments further demonstrate his knowledge and experience in erectile dysfunction and penile implants. Known for mentoring other urologists and urological trainees, Dr Campbell combines experience with a commitment to patient care.
Before the surgery, Dr Campbell conducts a comprehensive evaluation to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for penile implant surgery. This involves reviewing the patient’s medical history and any underlying conditions and ensuring that other treatment options have been explored. He also provides pre-surgical guidelines, including instructions on certain medications to avoid, lifestyle adjustments like smoking cessation and alcohol avoidance, and any necessary medical tests to assess overall health.
Dr Campbell uses both inflatable and malleable penile implants, depending on the patient’s needs. He chooses the incision site based on the type of implant and the patient’s anatomy. This careful selection of the incision site helps minimise the visibility of the scar and reduces the risk of complications like infection or discomfort during recovery. After the surgery, he provides detailed recovery instructions, including managing discomfort, caring for the surgical site, and scheduling follow-up visits at the Erectile Dysfunction Clinic. He carefully monitors the healing process during follow-up appointments, ensuring that the implant functions as expected and that there are no complications.
