Male Sling Melbourne
The male sling is a surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in men, most commonly occurring after prostate surgery such as radical prostatectomy. Stress incontinence refers to urine leakage during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, lifting, or exercise. The male sling works by providing support to the urethra, increasing urethral resistance and restoring continence. It is an effective option for men with mild to moderate incontinence who have not improved sufficiently with conservative measures.
Written and clinically reviewed by Dr Brendan Dias
Consultant Urologist & Robotic Surgeon · MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DrNB (Urology), IntFRCS (England), FUSANZ, FRACS (Urology)
Last clinically reviewed: 26 August 2026
Benefits
- Effective treatment for mild to moderate stress incontinence
- Less invasive than artificial urinary sphincter
- No mechanical parts - nothing to manipulate
- Quick recovery with return to normal activities in 2-4 weeks
- High patient satisfaction rates (70-90% improvement)
- Can significantly reduce or eliminate pad usage
The Procedure
The male sling procedure is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia through a small incision in the perineum (area between scrotum and anus). A synthetic mesh sling is positioned beneath the urethra to provide support and compression. The procedure typically takes 45-60 minutes. Common sling systems include the AdVance XP sling, a retrourethral sling that repositions and supports the urethra, and the ATOMS (Adjustable Transobturator Male System) device, which has a small integrated cushion that can be adjusted in the clinic after surgery to fine-tune continence without further surgery. The choice depends on the degree of incontinence and individual anatomy.
Who Is a Candidate?
Male sling is recommended for men with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence (typically using 1-4 pads per day), persistent incontinence at least 12 months after prostate surgery (to allow natural recovery), those who have not improved adequately with pelvic floor exercises, and men seeking a less complex alternative to artificial sphincter. It is less suitable for severe incontinence, previous pelvic radiation, or significant scarring from previous surgery. Preoperative assessment includes pad weight testing, urodynamics, and cystoscopy.
Recovery
Most men go home the same day or after one night in hospital. A catheter may be placed overnight. Return to desk work is possible within 1-2 weeks; physical work and exercise require 4-6 weeks. Avoid straining, heavy lifting, and cycling for 6 weeks. Some temporary perineal discomfort and swelling is normal. Improvement in continence may be immediate or gradual over several weeks as swelling settles. Final outcomes are assessed at 3-6 months.
Risks & Considerations
Male sling complications include temporary urinary retention requiring catheterisation, perineal pain or discomfort (usually temporary), infection, bleeding or haematoma, mesh erosion into the urethra (rare, 1-2%), sling failure requiring revision or alternative treatment, and new onset urgency or urge incontinence. Success rates are lower in men with severe incontinence, previous radiation, or prior incontinence surgery. Dr Dias will assess your suitability and discuss expected outcomes during consultation.