When to return to work depends on a few things. How you feel and how stressful or strenuous your work is. Nearly all penis enlargement surgery involves painful swelling or bruising. During surgery you will usually be given a steroid mixed in with your intravenous to hold inflammation down. It’s when you get home and the anesthesia starts to wear off that’s when pain, swelling and bruising start to worsen.

If you do nothing other than let nature take its course, you may be able to return to work somewhere between 3 days to 2 weeks. And possibly even sooner, since your badge of distinction is inside your pants and not showing. Of course, if this is a medical leave of absence, without pay, or you’re in a rush to get back, there are things that you can do at home to hasten your recovery.

Returning to Work After Phalloplasty Surgery

Control the pain, increase the drainage and reduce the swelling faster by these methods:

• Ice.  Apply ice packs or iced washcloths to the surgical site, alternating on and off to avoid frostbite, 3 times a day. Take care to avoid wetting sutures. Failure to apply ice right after surgery may result in prolong swelling.

• Elevation.  When in bed, elevate your pelvic area so that your penis is above the level of your heart, to help promote drainage, reduce swelling and speed healing.

• Vitamins and Supplements.  Continue taking your multi-vitamins, except for vitamin E which acts as an anti-coagulant at doses of more than 200 mg per day.

• Herbs.  Bromelain and arnica are proven swelling-reducers. Gingko biloba allows for increased circulation to the extremities.

• Pain and Inflammation Medication.  Your surgeon may prescribe a prescription pain-killer, or short course of anti-inflammatory steroids. Regardless, limit your use of acetaminophen-based drugs such as Tylenol.

Choose a Qualified Phalloplasty Surgeon Only

The delicate maneuvers of penis enlargement surgeries require the skill and experience of a board certified cosmetic phalloplasty surgeon. The use of any other type of doctor would be at your own risk.