Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Urination after penile implant surgery is a big worry for men. They want to get back to normal life and function. Most men can pee normally soon after surgery, usually after a short time with a catheter.
Right after surgery, a thin tube, or catheter, might be put in the urethra. It goes into the bladder to let urine out. This tube is taken out in a day or so, so patients can pee like usual again.
At Liv Hospital, we follow the latest research and care standards. We aim for the best results for our patients getting penis implant surgery.
Key Takeaways
- Normal urination usually comes back soon after penile implant surgery.
- A catheter might be used after surgery to help with urine flow.
- Modern surgery and medical tools help with better urine control.
- Getting expert care is key to avoiding urine problems.
- Liv Hospital focuses on top-notch, ethical care for penis implant patients.
Normal Urination Timeline After Penile Implant Surgery
The journey to normal urination after penile implant surgery has several stages. It starts with catheterization. Knowing this can ease worries and get patients ready for their recovery.

Catheterization During Initial Recovery
After penile implant surgery, a catheter helps with urination at first. It’s usually taken out a few days later. We make sure the catheter process is as easy as possible. Our team gives clear instructions on how to care for and manage the catheter.
Patients are watched closely for any problems. The catheter comes out when doctors think the patient can pee on their own. How long it stays in depends on how quickly each person recovers.
Transition to Natural Urination
After the catheter is gone, patients start to pee naturally. Most men can pee normally right after. But some might face some trouble or feel a bit uncomfortable. If this happens, it’s important to tell the doctor right away.
How fast someone gets back to normal peeing varies. Health, any past health issues, and the surgery details all play a part. Our team is there to help with any bumps and support a smooth recovery.
Types of Penile Implants and Their Effects on Urinary Function

It’s important to know about the different penile implants before deciding on treatment. These devices help men get an erection. The type of implant chosen can affect how you pee after surgery.
There are mainly two kinds of penile implants: inflatable and malleable. Each has its own benefits and how it might affect your pee.
Inflatable Penile Implants
Inflatable implants are the most popular choice. They have inflatable cylinders in the penis, a pump in the scrotum, and a reservoir in the belly. Men can get an erection by inflating the cylinders and go flaccid by deflating them.
Advantages of inflatable penile implants include:
- More natural erection and flaccidity
- Adjustable firmness
- Concealable when not in use
These implants usually don’t mess with your pee too much. But, like any surgery, there are risks and things to watch out for.
Malleable Penile Implants
Malleable or semirigid implants are another choice. They have rods in the penis that can be bent for sex and adjusted.
Key characteristics of malleable penile implants include:
- Simpler device with fewer components
- Always semi-rigid, though it can be adjusted
- Less concealable than inflatable devices
Malleable implants usually don’t affect your pee much. But it’s good to talk to your doctor about any concerns.
In conclusion, both inflatable and malleable implants have their good points and things to think about. Choosing the right one depends on what you need and want, including how it might affect your pee.
Common Urinary Complications Following Penile Implant Surgery
Urinary problems can happen after penile implant surgery, affecting many men. This surgery is usually safe and works well. But knowing about these issues is key to good care and management.
Postoperative Urinary Retention (POUR)
About 27% of patients face urinary retention after surgery. This means they can’t pee after the operation. It’s a big problem that needs quick medical help. We watch for signs and act fast to help.
POUR can come from many things, like anesthesia, pain, and how the body reacts to the implant. Effective management might include using a catheter or medicine to help pee normally again.
Incontinence Issues and Management
Incontinence, or losing bladder control, is another issue, often seen in men who’ve had prostate surgery. The chance of this happening depends on the implant type and the patient’s health.
Management strategies for incontinence include exercises, changing habits, and sometimes medicine. We help each patient find the best way to deal with incontinence and improve their life.
Knowing about urinary problems after penile implant surgery helps us prepare patients. We can then give them the care they need to handle these issues.
Managing Urinary Problems After Your Penile Implant
Urinary problems after penile implant surgery can be tough to deal with. We’re here to help you manage these issues. With the right steps and medical help, you can handle these problems well.
Catheterization Techniques and Duration
Catheterization is often used right after penile implant surgery. The method and how long you use it can change based on your needs and the doctor’s advice. It helps drain urine from your bladder, letting your urethra heal.
Key aspects of catheterization include:
- Proper catheter placement to minimize discomfort and prevent complications
- Regular catheter maintenance to reduce the risk of infection
- Monitoring for signs of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs)
The time you use a catheter depends on how well you’re healing. Always follow your doctor’s advice on catheter care and removal for a smooth recovery.
Medical Interventions for Persistent Issues
Some urinary problems might not go away after the catheter is out. For these, doctors have several treatments. Medications like alpha-blockers can relax muscles in the prostate and bladder, making it easier to pee.
For serious urinary retention or incontinence, more treatments might be needed. These can include:
- Pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support urination
- Behavioral modifications, such as timed voiding and double voiding, to improve bladder emptying
- In some cases, further surgical intervention may be required to address underlying issues
It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment for ongoing urinary problems after penile implant surgery. This way, you can reduce discomfort and improve your life quality.
Risk Factors That Affect Urination After Implant Surgery
Many factors can change how you urinate after getting a penile implant. Knowing these can help manage what patients expect and improve results.
Pre-existing Prostate Conditions
Prostate issues before surgery can really affect how you urinate after it. Problems like BPH or prostate cancer can make it harder to pee. Patients with prostate problems should talk to their doctor about how it might affect their recovery.
- The severity of their prostate condition
- Previous treatments for prostate issues
- The need for extra ways to manage urine after surgery
How Surgical Technique Impacts Recovery
The way the surgery is done can also change how you pee later. Doctors might choose different methods to lower the chance of peeing problems. Things like the doctor’s skill, the type of implant, and the surgery method can all affect your pee after surgery.
- Using techniques that help keep the pee function
- The kind of penile implant used, like inflatable or malleable
- The doctor’s experience with these surgeries
Knowing these risks helps patients get ready for surgery and recovery. It also lets doctors give more specific advice and support.
Conclusion: Conclusion: Long-Term Urinary Function and Quality of Life
Penile implant surgery can greatly improve a patient’s life, focusing on urinary function. Studies found that 72% of men with erectile dysfunction and stress incontinence see big improvements. An inflatable penile prosthesis helps control leakage well.
Choosing the right patient, using the right surgical method, and caring for the patient after surgery are key. The type of penile implant, whether inflatable or malleable, also affects urinary function.
Understanding and managing possible complications can lead to better urinary function and life quality. Our aim is to offer top-notch healthcare and support to patients worldwide.
FAQ
What is the normal urination process like after penile implant surgery?
After surgery, patients use a catheter to urinate at first. This is to help them during recovery. The catheter is removed after a few days. Then, they can start urinating naturally again.
How long does catheterization last after penile implant surgery?
How long a patient uses a catheter varies. But usually, it’s just a few days. This lets the urethra heal properly.
What are the differences between inflatable and malleable penile implants, and how do they affect urination?
Inflatable implants can be used for sex and deflated when not needed. Malleable implants are always firm but can be bent. Both types help with urination. The choice depends on what the patient prefers and needs.
Are there any other urinary complications after penile implant surgery?
Yes, problems like not being able to urinate and leaking can happen. But, these can be treated with medical help.
How are urinary problems managed after penile implant surgery?
Handling urinary issues after surgery involves several steps. This includes using catheters, medical treatments, and watching how the patient urinates.
Can pre-existing prostate conditions affect urination after penile implant surgery?
Yes, prostate problems can affect urination after surgery. People with these issues should talk to their doctor about their risks and how to manage them.
How does the surgical technique used for penile implant surgery impact recovery and urination?
The surgery method can affect recovery and urination. A skilled surgeon can lower the risk of problems and help with better outcomes for urination.
What can I expect in terms of long-term urinary function and quality of life after penile implant surgery?
Most patients can expect to urinate normally again and have a better life after surgery. This is if they choose the right surgery, have good care after it, and follow their doctor’s advice.
References
- Choi, H. M., et al. (2016). Urinary incontinence could be controlled by an inflatable penile prosthesis in patients with dual problems of erectile dysfunction and incontinence. International Journal of Impotence Research, 28(4), 115-121. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4853768/
- Tu, H. Y. V., & Sandhu, J. S. (2017). Combined artificial urinary sphincter and penile implant surgery: Good or bad idea? The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 14(5), 643-644. https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article-abstract/14/5/643/6973382