Recovery from any gender-affirming surgery requires time, patience, and proper support. It’s completely normal to have questions about whether your progress is within the expected range, whether you’re following the guidelines correctly, or what activities are or aren’t allowed.
In the first weeks following phalloplasty, day-to-day doubts are common. Even if your clinic has given you a post-op care guide. In this article, we address the most frequent concerns during phalloplasty recovery.
How long will I have a urinary catheter?
Keep in mind that this timeline may be adjusted depending on how you’re healing. Your medical team will determine the most appropriate plan for you.
After phalloplasty surgery, you will usually wear a urinary catheter connected to your scrotum for about three weeks. For the first two weeks, the catheter will be connected to a collection bag, while during the third week you will wear a cap.
However, you should bear in mind that this protocol may be modified depending on your progress. The medical team will always determine the most appropriate times for you.
What if I had a urethral connection?
If a connection between the scrotal and penile urethra has been made, the catheter will usually remain in place for four to five weeks. This prevents pressure on the surgical site and allows for proper healing. This period may also vary depending on your progress and the medical team’s judgment.
I’m getting surgery at IM GENDER — can I travel afterward if I don’t live in Barcelona?
Yes. Many patients come from other cities or countries. However, it is recommended to stay near the clinic (in Sant Cugat del Vallès or Barcelona) for at least one month after your phalloplasty. This makes it easier for the IM GENDER medical team to perform in-person wound care and post-op check-ups, if needed.
Can post-op visits be done via video call?
Yes, at IM GENDER, follow-up visits can be conducted via video conference. Before the appointment, the patient care team will ask you to send photos of the surgical area, to help assess your healing.
This is a safe and useful option if you live far away and cannot travel easily. After surgery, you’ll be given a care guide—follow the instructions closely, and contact the IM GENDER team if you have any questions.
When can I return to work?
This depends on the nature of your job:
- Sedentary jobs (e.g., office work): usually safe to return one month after surgery.
- Physically demanding jobs (standing for long hours, lifting, driving): it’s best to wait at least six weeks.
Will I be able to drive after phalloplasty?
You can usually start driving two months after surgery, as long as you don’t have pain or limited mobility.
Your doctor will assess your recovery and give you personalized advice.
Can I exercise after phalloplasty?
It depends on the type of sport or activity:
- From month 2 onward, you may begin light physical activity.
- Avoid high-impact sports or sudden movements until you’re fully healed and your doctor gives you clearance.
When can I resume sexual activity?
It’s important to allow enough time for proper healing to avoid complications.
- Generally, it is recommended to wait at least three months after phalloplasty.
- If you had testicular implants, wait at least one month after that procedure.
As always, follow your doctor’s personalized advice.
A small opening appeared at the base of the phallus. Is it serious?
No. It is quite common for a small opening (called dehiscence) to appear where the phallus meets the scrotum.
What to do:
- After showering, dry the area well using a hair dryer on cold air.
- Apply Betadine gel for 5 to 7 days.
- Send a photo to the IM GENDER team so they can monitor it.
These small openings often heal on their own.
Can I expose the donor arm to sunlight?
No. It’s important to protect the skin from sun exposure during the first year.
You can wear clothing that covers the area and/or use silicone sheets with sun protection, which also help improve the appearance of the scar.
When can I swim in the sea or pool?
This is a very common question. Avoid immersing the surgical area in water until all stitches have fallen out and the skin is fully healed. This usually happens around six weeks post-op.
Urination concerns after phalloplasty
Is it normal to leak urine from the scrotum or phallus?
What if I have a weak urine stream or difficulty urinating?
When you have difficulty urinating or your urine stream is weaker than usual, there may be several causes: internal scarring, narrowing of the urethra (called urethral stricture) or a decrease in the diameter of the urethra.
In these cases, urethral dilation is recommended, once or twice a week, using a small cannula and lubricant. If the force of the stream decreases significantly, do this every day or before urinating. However, before starting any procedure, contact your medical team.
I feel burning when urinating and need to go frequently. Is it an infection?
Yes, It could be a urinary tract infection, so it’s important that you visit your health centre for testing and, if needed, receive appropriate antibiotic treatment. Do not ignore it if the symptoms persist or worsen.
A step-by-step recovery
Every body has its own rhythm, and we must respect that. The first few weeks after phalloplasty can be intense, but with clear information and adequate support, the journey becomes easier. It is important that you have physical and emotional support during your recovery. Physical, because during the first few weeks you will not be able to lift weights or exert yourself. Emotional, because it is important to have someone who supports you and listens to you during your recovery.
At IM GENDER, our team is here to support you professionally every step of the way. For more information, visit our Phalloplasty FAQ section.
Still have questions about what to expect during phalloplasty recovery?
Contact IM GENDER and we’ll be happy to help.
