Penile Cancer Surgery: What You Need to Know

If you or a loved one has been told you need penile cancer surgery, the first reaction is often a mix of fear and confusion. You probably have a lot of questions: Which operation will I have? How will it affect my daily life? What does the recovery look like? This guide breaks down the main procedures, what to expect during healing, and how to handle the emotional side of things.

Types of Surgery and When They’re Used

The most common surgeries are partial penectomy and total penectomy. A partial penectomy removes only the tumor‑bearing part of the penis while preserving as much length as possible. Surgeons aim for a clear margin of healthy tissue, usually about 1‑2 cm, to reduce the chance of the cancer coming back. This option works best when the tumor is located near the tip or on one side and hasn’t spread deeply.

A total penectomy is reserved for larger or more invasive tumors that involve most of the shaft. In this case, the entire penis is removed, and the surgeon creates a new opening for urine (a perineal urethrostomy). While it sounds extreme, it can be life‑saving and often provides the best chance for a cure when the disease is advanced.

For small, superficial lesions, some doctors offer laser therapy or glans resurfacing. These techniques use focused light to vaporize cancer cells without cutting away tissue. They’re less invasive, have quicker recovery times, and can preserve more of the organ’s appearance and function, but they’re only suitable for early‑stage disease.

When the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, a inguinal lymph node dissection may be performed at the same time or as a separate procedure. Removing the affected nodes helps prevent further spread and gives doctors more information about how aggressive the cancer is. This can add to recovery time and increase the risk of swelling or infection, so surgeons try to limit it to cases where the benefits outweigh the risks.

Recovery, Side Effects, and Follow‑Up Care

Recovery starts in the hospital. After a partial penectomy you’ll usually stay 1‑2 days for pain control and wound checks. Total penectomy patients may need a longer stay—often 3‑5 days—because of the additional urinary reconstruction. Pain is managed with oral meds, but you’ll be encouraged to move around early to keep blood flowing and reduce clot risk.

At home, the first two weeks are critical for wound healing. Keep the area clean, follow any dressing changes your surgeon outlines, and watch for signs of infection like redness, increased pain, or fever. Swelling in the groin after lymph node removal is common; gentle compression and leg elevation can help. Most people can resume light activities after about two weeks, but heavy lifting and vigorous exercise should be avoided for 4‑6 weeks.

Urinary function will change. After a partial penectomy, you’ll still urinate from the tip, though the stream may be a bit wider. After a total penectomy, you’ll use the new opening in the perineum. Learning to aim and manage hygiene takes a few tries, and a urinary catheter may be in place for a short period.

Sexual function is a major concern. Many men retain the ability to have erections after a partial penectomy, though the size may be reduced. Sexual satisfaction often shifts toward emotional intimacy and alternative stimulation. Counseling, either with a therapist or a support group, can make a big difference. For those who have a total penectomy, orgasm is still possible because the nerves that trigger climax remain, but there’s no penetrative intercourse. Prosthetic devices or sexual aids can help adapt to the new reality.

Follow‑up appointments are scheduled every few months for the first two years, then annually. Doctors will check the surgical site, test for tumor markers, and possibly order imaging to confirm there’s no recurrence. Staying on top of these visits is vital because early detection of a new growth dramatically improves outcomes.

Emotionally, it’s normal to feel a range of reactions—from relief that the tumor is removed to grief over body changes. Reaching out to loved ones, joining online forums, or speaking with a mental‑health professional can provide the support you need. Remember, many men go through this journey and come out living full, active lives.

Overall, penile cancer surgery is a personalized decision based on tumor size, location, and spread. Knowing the options, understanding the recovery steps, and planning for both physical and emotional care will help you navigate the process with confidence.