If you’ve recently had a penile implant, you already know the importance of inflating it — but here’s the truth: most calls we get after surgery aren’t about getting it up.

They’re about getting it back down.

Deflation is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice, patience, and the right technique. Whether you’re in your first week of recovery or working on fine-tuning your routine months later, this guide will help you master “The Great Deflate.”

Why Deflation Matters

In the early weeks after surgery, properly inflating and deflating your implant is a critical part of penile rehabilitation. It keeps the tissues soft, prevents discomfort, and helps you achieve the most natural result possible.

If you leave your implant inflated too long — especially in the beginning — it can affect both comfort and concealment. Regular deflation helps you maintain flexibility and achieve your best long-term outcome.

Know Your Pump

There are three major penile implant companies — each with a slightly different deflation mechanism:

Coloplast
- Two-sided deflate button.
- Requires squeezing both sides firmly at the same time.
Boston Scientific (AMS 700)
- One-touch deflate valve.
- Press and hold for 4–6 seconds until you feel the cylinders soften.
Rigicon
- One-touch deflate valve with a slightly different feel.
- Press, hold, then gently massage the shaft downward.

Pro Tip: Each company provides a keychain model of their pump. This is more than a souvenir — it’s a training tool. Practice on it so you’re familiar with your pump before and after surgery.

Finding Your Pump: The Water Balloon Analogy

Early on, your scrotum may be swollen and tender, which makes finding the pump tricky. Here’s an analogy we use with patients:

Finding your pump is like searching for a grape inside a water balloon.

Start high in the scrotum, not at the bottom. Slide your fingers upward until you feel the tubing, then follow it down until you find the “grape” — the pump bulb. This part won’t hurt when you squeeze it. Once you’ve found it, you can locate the deflate tabs or button.

Hand Positioning for Success

The way you grip the pump makes all the difference:

Use the “OK” hand gesture or, for our Texas patients, the “Hook ’em Horns.”
Always start with your dominant hand — you’ll have more control.
If needed, use both hands: one to hold the tubing and stabilize the pump, the other to press the deflate button.
Once you’re pressing the button, use your non-dominant hand to gently squeeze the shaft.

At first, the penis may feel firm, but if the button is engaged correctly, you’ll feel the implant release and begin to soften. If it doesn’t, reposition your hands and try again.

This is where your keychain pump comes in handy — use it to feel for the landmarks and match them inside your scrotum.

Tips & Tricks from the Clinic

Add Grip: Use a thin washcloth or paper towel to help grip the pump if you’re struggling.
Warm Up: A hot shower or warm towel on the scrotum for 5–10 minutes will soften tissues and make the pump easier to manipulate.
Practice Often: We recommend attempting to deflate every time you urinate in the early weeks — repetition builds muscle memory.
Be Patient: This is like orthopedic rehab — you walk before you run.

What NOT to Do

Don’t use tools like pliers or tongs.
Don’t twist, yank, or pull aggressively on the pump.
Don’t wait until you’re in public or on a date to try this for the first time.

When to Call Your Doctor

Some patients are too swollen in the early days to attempt deflation on their own. If you’re unsure, or if repeated attempts aren’t working, call your implanting urologist. That’s what we’re here for.

The Bottom Line

Deflating your penile implant isn’t about strength — it’s about technique, patience, and repetition. Use the right grip, know your pump, and don’t be discouraged if it takes a little time to master.

With practice, you’ll go from struggling with “The Great Deflate” to handling it like a pro — and your implant will feel and function its best for years to come.

If you have questions about your penile implant, recovery, or sexual health contact us.