Men with a penile prosthesis may sleep on their stomach, as long as the penis is positioned properly.
Many men in the postoperative period after penile prosthesis surgery worry about sleeping on their stomach and wonder whether this position may interfere with surgical recovery.
This is a normal and very common concern. However, it is important to understand that care recommendations vary, with specific guidance for the initial phase – when swelling may still be present – and different recommendations after medical clearance.
In the following paragraphs, we explain in general whether sleeping on your stomach with a penile prosthesis may interfere with recovery, in which situations it may require greater caution, and when this position tends to stop being a concern, without replacing individual medical advice.
How Does a Penile Prosthesis Work?
A penile prosthesis is surgically implanted inside the penis in order to restore the rigidity needed for sexual intercourse. The device extends to the tip of the penis and remains completely internal.
There are two types of penile prosthesis: malleable and inflatable.
The malleable penile prosthesis is made of flexible rods with an internal metal structure coated with medical-grade silicone. With this model, the penis remains semi-rigid, allowing the man to position it as desired.
The inflatable penile prosthesis, on the other hand, has cylinders and a pump placed in the scrotum. Depending on the model, there may also be a saline reservoir. Erection and return to the flaccid state occur by activating the pump.
Does Sleeping on Your Stomach Affect a Penile Prosthesis?
Sleeping on your stomach with a penile prosthesis may cause discomfort or place pressure on the area when the prosthesis, or the penis, is not positioned properly, especially during the postoperative period.
In general, underwear with greater support and positioning the penis downward, close to the thighs, may be recommended, particularly in the early recovery phase, according to the guidance of the surgeon in charge.
In the case of an inflatable prosthesis, it is essential that the device is completely deflated. To do this, the pump located in the scrotum must be activated and the penis gently compressed to empty the cylinders.
Can Men with a Penile Prosthesis Sleep on Their Stomach After Surgery?
In many cases, sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs may be a more comfortable option after penile prosthesis surgery, according to medical guidance.
This position may improve comfort and reduce body weight pressure on the operated area, especially during the initial stages of recovery.
Is There a Risk in the Immediate Postoperative Period?
As with any surgery, there are risks in the immediate postoperative period after penile prosthesis surgery.
These are known risks and, in many cases, they may be minimized by properly following medical instructions and recommended clinical follow-up.
The First Weeks After Surgery
During the first few days after penile prosthesis surgery, a man may experience swelling, small bruises, pain, and sensitivity in the area. These symptoms are expected and are part of the healing process after the implant.
The most common medical instructions include keeping the incision site clean and dry, avoiding heavy lifting, and refraining from sexual intercourse during the period indicated by the doctor.
After Complete Recovery
After recovery after penile prosthesis surgery, a man may sleep in the position he prefers, as long as the penis is positioned properly. In the case of an inflatable penile implant, it is essential to completely deflate the device.
After recovery after penile prosthesis surgery, many patients gradually return to their usual routine and may sleep in different positions, as long as this is comfortable and consistent with medical advice. In the case of an inflatable penile implant, the urologist’s instructions regarding proper device deflation should be followed.
Regarding sexual activity, some men may feel insecure when returning to intercourse after the implant. In these cases, the treating urologist guides the patient about sex after penile prosthesis surgery and clarifies any questions.
When Is It Important to See a Urologist?
A man should contact the surgeon in charge if he experiences persistent pain or unusual swelling, as these signs may indicate inflammation after penile surgery.
In cases of inflammation, treatment may include the use of antibiotics.
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the prosthesis, perform proper cleansing, and later replace the device.
Learn More About Penile Prosthesis with Dr. Paulo Egydio
Recovery after penile prosthesis placement depends on several factors, including clinical evaluation, the technique used, the characteristics of each case, and adherence to postoperative medical instructions.
Dr. Paulo Egydio is a urologist specializing in penile prosthesis surgery, with 28 years of experience and more than 7,000 procedures performed.
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