I'm in.......and so far so good

[DoomEngloom]

Hello all - thank God for these forums. They've kept me informed and sane through this difficult process. Time for me to share my tale.
I'm a 48 yo based in the UK and after treatment for bowel cancer around 7 years ago I was left with permanent impotence. Even those injections couldn't get me any satisfaction.
So, last Tuesday (24/02/15) I was given an inflatable implant. This is where the details get a bit vague. I was treated under the NHS after being on the waiting list for over 3 years. There was no debate about who was going to do it, let alone what model he was going to use. He sent me home though with a pump on a keyring (to practice with) and clipped on to the pump is a plastic card with a very happy looking couple and the words Coloplast Titan OTR. So I guess that is what is causing the dull ache in my groin.
I'm a week down the line now and the pain has been a lot easier than I thought. As ever the worst thing was that *****ing catheter. Luckily though they slid the thing out after 1 night and before they sent me home. Bruising, swelling has reduced a lot - initially it looked like a flat and burnt fish finger- and I had to sit down carefully as that pump can provide a couple of surprises if you're not careful.
I have my first follow up appointment with the surgeon this Thursday. Not sure if it's just a check up - I suspect it will be too soon to do any pumping.
I'm very excited to test drive my new friend - I'm not sure if my wife feels quite as excited at the moment. Its been so long it may take a few tries for us both to get comfortable. Either way I have nothing to lose.

These forums helped my mentally prepare for what I'm going through. Let's face it - I couldn't ask my mates for advice. It has eased my worries and prepared me for each stage. I hope my story will help others.

[truckee48]

Welcome to the brotherhood ! My implant date was Jan. 15 and first inflation was the 6th of this month. Most of my sorness is gone or at least, manageable, and I've had my first test drive. The Mrs. Was very happy to help! We don't get many opportunities because we are 24hr a day caregivers for my mother in law who has many issues, but that's a different forum.
I'd like to ask if you lost much of your length due to the long time with ED. I was down for 10+ years and I lost alot.
But again welcome ! Hope things go well for you.

[DoomEngloom]

Hi Truckee
Thank for your welcome.
Re length and ED - I don't know. I've had ongoing problems for about 8 years prior to the cancer, but I think the issues were 40% mental, 40% stress and then the rest was ruined by heavy smoking and drinking. Anyways, bowel cancer put a permanent stop to smoking, drinking and erections!

I had been using a pump prior to my operation and my maximum length was 6.5 to 7 inches. Post op I certainly have a lot more girth and there seems to be plenty of length, but I won't know if I've lost or gained overall until I get the green light on the pump.

I have to stop fiddling with the damn thing, be patient and let the healing process do its stuff......but it ain't easy. Thank God the pain stops me playing around too much.

Truckee? What week were you allowed to start pumping? Did you have to wait the full 6?

[truckee48]

I'm a little impatient and thank God a fast healer. Experimented through the third week, was released beginning of the fourth week and tested a few days later.

[DoomEngloom]

Today's great achievement? I managed to pee standing up and get it in the bowl.

So that is one element of my penis functioning normally again. Just need to keep my fingers crossed for the other.