COMPREHENSIVE UROLOGY AFTERCARE GUIDE

1. Erectile Dysfunction Treatment - Aftercare Guide

• Treatment varies depending on type (medication, injection, implant, or device)
• Oral medications: take as prescribed; effects typically occur within 30-60 minutes
• Avoid alcohol, especially with oral medications (may reduce effectiveness)
• Avoid grapefruit juice (interferes with some medications)
• Penile injections: follow injection technique training carefully
• Clean injection site before administration
• Rotate injection sites to prevent tissue damage
• Use sterile needles and follow sterile technique
• Report bruising, swelling, or pain at injection site
• Vacuum erection devices: use as instructed; follow usage guidelines
• Do not exceed recommended duration of use with device
• Penile implant surgery: avoid sexual activity for 4-6 weeks
• Keep surgical site clean and dry after implant surgery
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Implant activation typically delayed 4-6 weeks after surgery
• Use adequate lubrication with implant
• Follow specific instructions for your implant type
• Report any pain, infection signs, or device malfunction
• Psychological support may be beneficial
• Maintain overall cardiovascular health
• Continue any prescribed blood pressure medications
• Regular follow-up assessments important
• Results and satisfaction improve with consistent use

2. Prostate Surgery (TURP, AquaBlation) - Aftercare Guide

• Urinary catheter may be in place initially (typically 1-3 days)
• Drink plenty of water (2-3 liters daily) to flush system
• Urinary frequency and urgency normal initially
• Burning with urination may occur (typically resolves in days)
• Blood in urine common initially; gradually clears
• Prescribed antibiotics prevent infection; take as directed
• Pain management with prescribed or over-the-counter medication
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 2-4 weeks
• No sexual activity for 4-6 weeks after surgery
• Avoid straining or constipation
• Keep surgical area clean and dry
• Sitz baths (warm water) helpful for comfort (after catheter removal)
• Avoid very hot baths initially
• Continue good hygiene; gentle washing of area
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products
• Avoid alcohol, especially with medications
• Return for follow-up appointments
• Urinary symptoms typically improve significantly
• Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks
• Full recovery typically 4-6 weeks
• Irrigation fluid absorption may cause temporary confusion or restlessness
• Report fever, inability to urinate, or severe pain immediately

3. Vasectomy - Aftercare Guide

• Mild discomfort and swelling expected for first few days
• Apply ice packs for first 24-48 hours (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
• Keep head elevated; wear supportive underwear
• Prescribed pain medication for discomfort
• Avoid touching or disturbing surgical site
• Keep incision clean and dry
• No showering for first 24 hours; sponge baths acceptable
• After 24 hours: gentle cleansing acceptable
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 1 week
• No sexual activity for 1 week minimum
• Avoid swimming and water activities for 1 week
• Return to work: typically 2-3 days for desk work
• Return to strenuous activity: 2 weeks
• Sperm count testing required 8-12 weeks post-op
• Must use backup contraception until sperm count confirmed zero
• Two consecutive zero sperm counts confirm sterility
• This is a permanent procedure; reversal possible but not guaranteed
• Ejaculation volume unchanged
• Sexual function typically unaffected
• Attend follow-up appointments for sperm count verification
• Report excessive bleeding, infection signs, or severe pain
• Pain typically resolves within 1-2 weeks

4. Vasectomy Reversal - Aftercare Guide

• Mild to moderate discomfort expected initially
• Apply ice packs for first 24-48 hours (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
• Wear supportive underwear for comfort and protection
• Keep head elevated while resting
• Prescribed pain medication for discomfort
• Prescribed antibiotics prevent infection; take as directed
• Avoid touching or disturbing surgical site
• Keep incision clean and dry
• No showering for first 24 hours; sponge baths after
• After 24 hours: gentle cleansing acceptable
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 2-3 weeks
• No sexual activity for 2-3 weeks minimum
• Avoid swimming and water activities for 2 weeks
• Return to work: typically 3-4 days for desk work
• Return to strenuous activity: 3-4 weeks
• Sperm count testing begins 8-12 weeks post-op
• Regular sperm count monitoring important for success assessment
• Success rates 50-75% for sperm return
• Even without sperm in ejaculate, conception possible with assisted reproductive techniques
• Fertility success depends on time since original vasectomy
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Discuss realistic expectations with surgeon
• Report excessive bleeding, infection signs, or severe pain
• Swelling may persist for several weeks

5. Circumcision - Aftercare Guide

• Mild to moderate discomfort expected for first few days
• Apply ice packs for first 24 hours (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing (avoid tight underwear)
• Prescribed pain medication for discomfort
• Prescribed antibiotics prevent infection; take as directed
• Keep incision clean and dry
• No showering for first 24 hours; sponge baths acceptable
• After 24 hours: gentle cleansing with warm water
• Pat dry gently; avoid rubbing
• Avoid sexual activity and masturbation for 3-4 weeks
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 1 week
• Swelling peaks at 48-72 hours; gradually improves
• Some bleeding or oozing normal for first few days
• Erections may be uncomfortable initially (normal)
• Avoid swimming and water activities for 2 weeks
• Return to work: typically 3-5 days for desk work
• Return to strenuous activity: 2-3 weeks
• Sutures typically dissolve or removed at 10-14 days
• Incision should be completely healed in 3-4 weeks
• Sensitivity improvement continues over weeks
• Ejaculation may feel different initially (typically improves)
• Report excessive bleeding, infection signs, or severe pain
• Avoid tight clothing that irritates incision

6. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Laser Treatment - Aftercare Guide

• Mild burning with urination expected initially
• Blood in urine common and normal initially
• Urinary frequency may increase temporarily
• Drink plenty of water (2-3 liters daily) to flush system
• Prescribed antibiotics prevent infection; take as directed
• Pain medication for any discomfort
• Urinary catheter may be in place briefly
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 2 weeks
• No sexual activity for 2-3 weeks
• Avoid straining or constipation
• Sitz baths helpful for comfort
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products
• Avoid alcohol, especially with medications
• Return for follow-up appointments
• Symptoms typically improve significantly within weeks
• Most patients return to normal activities within 1 week
• Full recovery typically 2-4 weeks
• Improved urinary flow usually noticeable
• Nighttime urination frequency typically decreases
• Report fever, inability to urinate, or severe pain immediately

7. Urinary Incontinence Treatment - Aftercare Guide

• Treatment type varies (medication, device, or surgical)
• Medication-based treatment: take as prescribed
• Avoid medications that worsen incontinence
• Pelvic floor exercises important for success
• Continue exercises as instructed even after treatment
• Mid-urethral slings or other implants: avoid strenuous activity for 2-4 weeks
• No sexual activity for 2-3 weeks after surgical implant
• Keep surgical site clean and dry
• Prescribed antibiotics prevent infection
• Pain medication for discomfort
• Urinary symptoms may take weeks to fully resolve
• Multiple follow-up visits may be needed
• Adjustments to medication or device possible
• Success rates improve with compliance
• Lifestyle modifications support treatment effectiveness
• Adequate fluid intake important
• Bladder training exercises helpful
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol
• Report worsening symptoms or inability to urinate
• Realistic expectations about outcome important

8. Kidney Stone Treatment (Ureteroscopy/Lithotripsy) - Aftercare Guide

• Mild discomfort in back or side expected
• Blood in urine common and normal initially
• Burning with urination may occur temporarily
• Drink plenty of water (2-3 liters daily) to flush system
• Prescribed pain medication for discomfort
• Prescribed antibiotics prevent infection; take as directed
• Stent may be in place temporarily (typically 1-2 weeks)
• Follow-up imaging to confirm stone removal
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 1-2 weeks
• No sexual activity for 1 week minimum
• Avoid swimming and water activities for 1 week
• Continue hydration important
• Return to light activity gradually
• Fever or inability to urinate requires immediate attention
• Dietary modifications may be recommended to prevent recurrence
• Follow-up appointments important
• Stone analysis results guide prevention strategy
• Most patients return to normal activities within 1 week
• Full recovery typically 2-4 weeks
• Stent removal appointment scheduled if applicable
• Pain should steadily improve
• Report severe flank pain or fever immediately

9. Hydrocele/Varicocele Repair - Aftercare Guide

• Mild discomfort and swelling expected
• Apply ice packs for first 24-48 hours (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
• Wear supportive underwear for comfort and protection
• Prescribed pain medication for discomfort
• Prescribed antibiotics prevent infection; take as directed
• Keep surgical site clean and dry
• No showering for first 24 hours; sponge baths acceptable
• After 24 hours: gentle cleansing acceptable
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 2-3 weeks
• No sexual activity for 2-3 weeks
• Avoid swimming and water activities for 2 weeks
• Swelling peaks at 48-72 hours; gradually improves
• Some bruising normal
• Sutures typically dissolve or removed at 10-14 days
• Return to light activity: 1 week
• Return to strenuous activity: 3-4 weeks
• Improvement in symptoms gradual
• Success rates high with good compliance
• Report excessive bleeding, infection signs, or severe pain
• Scrotal elevation helpful for comfort

10. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment - Aftercare Guide

• Complete full course of antibiotics (typically 7-14 days)
• Do not stop antibiotics early even if feeling better
• Drink plenty of water (2-3 liters daily)
• Urinary frequency normal during treatment
• Burning with urination should gradually improve
• Pain medication for discomfort if needed
• Avoid alcohol while taking antibiotics
• Avoid sexual activity until symptoms resolve
• Avoid irritating substances (douches, spermicides)
• Increase acidic foods to promote acidic urine
• Avoid caffeine and spicy foods
• Use heating pad for bladder discomfort
• Cranberry juice may help prevent recurrence
• Void frequently; do not hold urine
• Symptoms typically improve within 24-48 hours
• Complete symptom resolution expected after full course
• Follow-up testing may be recommended if recurrent
• Prophylactic antibiotics possible for recurrent infections
• Preventive measures important: hydration, hygiene, frequent urination
• Report fever, back pain, or blood in urine to physician

GENERAL UROLOGY AFTERCARE PRINCIPLES

Immediate Post-Operative Period (First 24 Hours)

• Take prescribed antibiotics and pain medication as directed
• Rest and keep area elevated
• Apply ice packs for first 24 hours if recommended
• Avoid disturbing surgical site
• Keep incision clean and dry
• Avoid showering or bathing for first 24 hours
• Wear supportive underwear or loose clothing
• Do not exercise or lift heavy objects
• Avoid sexual activity
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco products
• Report excessive bleeding or severe pain immediately
• Do not drive if taking pain medications

First Week

• Continue prescribed antibiotics if given
• Discomfort gradually improves
• Apply ice packs if swelling persists
• Sitz baths helpful for comfort (after first 24 hours)
• Gentle cleansing of area acceptable
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting
• No sexual activity
• Avoid swimming and water activities
• Continue excellent hygiene
• Attend follow-up appointments
• Report fever, infection signs, or severe pain
• Swelling and discomfort should gradually improve
• Light activity resumable by end of week 1
• Return to work acceptable for desk jobs

Weeks 2-4

• Continue prescribed medications if still prescribed
• Gradual return to normal activities
• Resume light exercise and walking
• Avoid heavy lifting for full recovery period
• No sexual activity until cleared (typically 3-4 weeks minimum)
• Continue good hygiene and incision care
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Sutures removed as scheduled if not dissolving
• Any remaining discomfort should minimal
• Return to strenuous activity gradually
• Report any delayed healing or complications

Long-Term Care (Month 2 and Beyond)

• Complete healing timeline varies by procedure (2-8 weeks)
• Final results visible after complete healing
• Continue excellent hygiene habits
• Regular follow-up appointments as recommended
• Maintain overall health
• Report any problems immediately
• Long-term success depends on compliance
• Discuss sexual function restoration timeline with physician
• Preventive measures important (hydration, activity, hygiene)

WARNING SIGNS: WHEN TO CONTACT YOUR UROLOGIST

Contact Immediately:

• Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication
• Excessive bleeding or continuous oozing
• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
• Pus, discharge, or foul odor from surgical site
• Inability to urinate or urinary retention
• Severe swelling or tightness
• Signs of infection (redness, warmth, increasing drainage)
• Blood clots or large amounts of blood in urine
• Allergic reaction (rash, difficulty breathing, throat swelling)
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing

Contact Within 24 Hours:

• Mild fever (under 101°F)
• Mild discharge
• Swelling worse than expected
• Questions about prescribed medications
• Difficulty following post-operative instructions
• Unexpected urinary symptoms
• Mild bleeding or oozing

Schedule Follow-Up Appointment:

• Post-operative check-up (1-2 weeks)
• Suture removal (typically 10-14 days)
• Sperm count testing (vasectomy: 8-12 weeks)
• Device adjustment appointments (as needed)
• Regular maintenance appointments (as recommended)
• Follow-up imaging or testing (as needed)

ESSENTIAL DO'S AND DON'TS

DO:

• Follow all physician's instructions carefully
• Take all prescribed medications as directed
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
• Wear supportive underwear
• Keep surgical site clean and dry
• Apply ice packs for first 24-48 hours
• Keep area elevated when resting
• Drink plenty of water
• Rest adequately
• Use pain medication as needed
• Report problems immediately
• Maintain excellent hygiene
• Be patient with healing process
• Continue taking antibiotics even if feeling better
• Keep follow-up contact information available

DON'T:

• Don't disturb or touch surgical site
• Don't shower or bathe for first 24 hours
• Don't engage in sexual activity (3-4+ weeks depending on procedure)
• Don't exercise or lift heavy objects during recovery
• Don't drink alcohol, especially with medications
• Don't smoke or use tobacco products
• Don't wear tight clothing around surgical area
• Don't skip prescribed antibiotics
• Don't drive while taking pain medications
• Don't neglect hygiene
• Don't ignore signs of infection or complications
• Don't engage in strenuous activity too early
• Don't resume sexual activity without physician approval
• Don't hesitate to call physician with concerns
• Don't use old or contaminated wound dressings

LONG-TERM CARE AND HEALTH MAINTENANCE

Healing Timeline

• Superficial wound healing: 7-14 days
• Internal healing and scar formation: 4-8 weeks
• Full recovery timeline varies by procedure (2-12 weeks)
• Some symptoms may persist beyond visible healing
• Final results may take weeks to months to stabilize

Maintaining Urological Health

• Regular urological check-ups as recommended
• Annual health screening important
• Maintain healthy lifestyle and fitness
• Adequate hydration supports urological health
• Regular sexual activity beneficial for health
• Pelvic floor exercises maintain function
• Preventive measures reduce complication risk
• Discuss long-term follow-up schedule with physician

Sexual Function Recovery

• Timeline varies by procedure (2-12 weeks)
• Psychological factors important for recovery
• Communication with partner helpful
• Gradual return to sexual activity recommended
• Lubrication may be helpful during recovery
• Report persistent sexual dysfunction to physician
• Most sexual function returns to baseline
• Realistic expectations about outcomes important

Preventive Health Measures

• Maintain adequate hydration (6-8 glasses daily)
• Healthy diet supports overall urological health
• Regular exercise benefits cardiovascular health
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
• Maintain healthy weight
• Regular physical activity recommended
• Manage stress effectively
• Discuss preventive strategies with physician
• Report urinary or sexual symptoms promptly

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL PATIENTS

Pre-Departure Guidelines

• Schedule final check-up before flying home
• Obtain copies of all medical records and pathology results
• Get written post-operative care instructions in English
• Request prescriptions for any medications needed
• Confirm follow-up testing timeline (sperm count, etc.)
• Arrange telemedicine follow-ups if available
• Obtain emergency contact information
• Keep all documentation in carry-on bag
• Ask about safe timing for air travel
• Understand when activities can resume

Travel Precautions

• Avoid flying immediately after surgery if possible
• Most procedures allow flying after 3-7 days
• Avoid sitting for extended periods if possible
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing during travel
• Pack prescribed medications in carry-on
• Bring extra medications in case of delays
• Stay well-hydrated during flight
• Avoid smoking areas
• Avoid strenuous activity during travel
• Wear compression underwear if recommended

Ongoing International Care

• Telemedicine consultations possible for routine follow-ups
• Local urologist can coordinate with Korean clinic
• Medical records and imaging provided for local care
• Prescriptions valid in most countries (verify)
• Maintain contact with Korean clinic for guidance
• Report any complications to both physicians
• Follow-up visits to Korea possible if needed for major issues
• Annual health check-ups in home country recommended
• Keep all documentation for future reference
• Discuss long-term follow-up plan before departure