The insertion of a penile implant is a major step in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, especially when other therapeutic solutions have failed. However, the success of this procedure is not limited to the operation itself. The post-operative period, in particular the start-up of the implant, is crucial to ensure proper functioning and optimal results. In this article, I explain in detail how this essential stage is carried out, the gestures to adopt, and the precautions to take to ensure effective subcutaneous healing and a return to a satisfying sexual life.
Introduction to postoperative penile implant placement
After insertion of a penile implant, usually a hydraulic implant, a specific consultation is scheduled about a month to a month and a half later. The purpose of this consultation is to familiarize you with how your implant works. The device doesn’t work on its own: you need to learn how to manipulate it to inflate and deflate the penis at will.
This start-up phase is fundamental to the long-term functional success of the implant. It’s also an important time to observe the healing process and the reaction of your tissues around the implant. Understanding the mechanism of your implant and learning how to handle it will not only enable you to return to an active sexual life, but also prevent certain complications linked to improper use or inadequate healing.
How does the start-up consultation work?
During this consultation, your urologist will first explain how your hydraulic implant works, using a small dummy pump for demonstration purposes. This pump allows you to feel the reliefs that you will find under the skin at the level of your own pump implanted in the scrotum.
You’ll learn to precisely locate the subcutaneous pump, and especially the deflation button, which can be difficult to spot at first, as it’s buried under thick scar tissue. Your surgeon will inflate the implant in front of you to demonstrate the technique, and will guide you through the first inflation and deflation trials.
This demonstration is essential. It will help you understand the sensations and gestures to reproduce at home, while reassuring you about how the implant works.
Inflating and deflating: first reflexes
During the first few inflations, it’s normal to feel that the penis is smaller than it should be. This is because post-operative healing causes the tissue surrounding the implant to contract, temporarily reducing the apparent volume of the penis. This phenomenon is normal and will gradually diminish with regular inflation.
Your urologist will therefore advise you to inflate and deflate your implant several times during your consultation, then continue this exercise daily at home. This repetition will :
- acquire the necessary reflexes to handle the pump easily, without interrupting your sexual activities or foreplay;
- facilitate the return to a more natural volume of the penis by gently stretching scar tissue;
- prevent the risk of fibrosis, which could limit future expansion of the penis.
Recommended exercises after start-up
The daily inflation and deflation routine
Daily inflation and deflation is highly recommended. This habit will not only help you master the handling of the implant, but also soften the tissues around the penis. The aim is to achieve gradual dilation of the tissues to restore optimal volume and satisfactory erectile function.
Daily repetition is therefore a key factor in the penile implant’s success in restoring erection.
Stretching the penis in the maximally inflated position
A complementary exercise consists of gently pulling the penis in different directions when the implant is fully inflated:
- towards the navel,
- to the feet,
- to the right,
- towards the left side until it touches the thigh.
These movements soften the root of the penis and help prevent fibrosis. Fibrosis is excessive scarring that can hinder future expansion of the penis. I recommend practicing this exercise daily for at least a month, for one to two minutes.
Handling the pump in the scrotum
Finally, it’s helpful, especially if you have low-volume bursae, to gently pull the pump downwards. The aim is to lift the pump away from the penis and stretch the scar tissue around it. You can do this exercise any time your hand is close to the scrotum: while urinating, lying down or in the shower.
Light but prolonged traction (around fifteen seconds) is all that’s needed to relax the tissues and prevent excessive retraction. This makes the implant more comfortable and easier to handle.
Precautions to be taken in the days following start-up
After the start-up consultation, it’s important not to stray too far from your surgeon for the first few days. Indeed, the first manipulations can be a little difficult, especially deflation, which is often more complicated to master than inflation.
I therefore advise against leaving on a trip or weekend immediately after the implant has been inserted. It’s best to wait at least 24 to 48 hours to make sure you can inflate and deflate the implant without difficulty. If a problem does arise, you can then come back for a quick consultation and benefit from a new personalized training program.
Don’t worry if you have trouble deflating at first: this is related to the thickness of the scar tissue around the pump, and will improve with time and practice.
Why is start-up so important?
Penile implant insertion is much more than just a technical demonstration. It is a key moment which influences the quality of subcutaneous healing and the future anatomical result of the implant. While cutaneous healing is already complete, healing of the deep tissue around the implant requires particular attention.
Proper handling of the implant during this period allows :
- prevent the formation of excessive fibrosis,
- avoid permanent retraction of the penis,
- ensure satisfactory volume and rigidity during intercourse,
- to rediscover a fulfilling, natural sex life.
That’s why it’s essential to strictly follow your urologist’s advice and practice the recommended exercises.
Conclusion: essential training for a renewed sex life
Penile implant insertion is an essential stage in the successful surgical treatment of erectile dysfunction. It enables you to get to grips with your new implant, learn how to handle it effectively and promote optimal healing.
By adopting a daily routine of inflating, deflating and stretching, you maximize your chances of regaining a functional penis, satisfactory volume and pleasurable intercourse. This learning phase requires patience and regularity, but it’s the key to long-term success.
If you’ve recently had a penile implant, please follow these recommendations and keep in touch with your urologist if you have any questions or difficulties. Your commitment to this post-operative phase is as important as the surgery itself.
To find out more about male sexual health, erectile dysfunction and innovative solutions such as the penile implant, I invite you to consult specialized sources on a regular basis and talk to qualified professionals.
Finally, remember that every patient is unique, and that personalized guidance from your surgeon is essential to tailor advice to your specific situation.
