Urinary Incontinence Surgery: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Urinary Incontinence Surgery?
A urologist usually treats urinary incontinence. This doctor specializes in the urinary system and the male reproductive organs. Some women see a urogynecologist, who focuses on bladder and pelvic problems in women. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Urinary incontinence means leaking urine when you do not want to. Surgery changes or supports parts of the body around the bladder and the urethra, the tube that carries urine out. The goal is to reduce or stop leaks, usually after other treatments have not worked.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Doctors often suggest surgery when exercises, bladder training, or medicines have not helped enough. Leaking with coughing, sneezing, or exercise is called stress incontinence; leaking when the bladder squeezes at the wrong time is urge incontinence. Testing is done first to find the cause.
How to prepare
- Ask which medicines to stop before surgery and when.
- Find out when to stop eating and drinking.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you the first day if you will have anesthesia.
What happens during it
There are several types of surgery. One common type uses a sling, a thin strap placed under the urethra to hold it in place during coughs or sneezes. Another type lifts and supports the bladder through the belly. Some procedures implant a device that sends mild electrical signals to help control the bladder.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the type of surgery. Many people go home the same day or the next morning. Doctors usually advise avoiding heavy lifting for days to weeks. Your doctor will tell you when you can return to work, exercise, and driving.
Risks and side effects
All surgery carries some risk, including infection, bleeding, pain, and trouble emptying the bladder. In some cases, leaks continue or new bladder control problems appear. Risks vary by procedure and by person.
Who performs it
A urologist usually performs these operations, though some women see a urogynecologist.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance; a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can be a good first stop, and longer visits make it easier to discuss a sensitive problem like leaking urine. They can start with simple treatments, refer you to a urologist if needed, and follow up with you over time.
Common questions
Will surgery cure my leaking?
Surgery often reduces leaking a great deal, but it does not work the same for everyone. Some people still leak a little afterward. Your doctor can estimate how likely a specific procedure is to help you.
Is a sling safe?
Sling procedures are common and have been studied for many years. Like any surgery, they carry risks such as infection or trouble urinating. Ask your surgeon how often they perform this procedure and what problems they have seen.
How long is recovery?
Many people return to normal activities within a few weeks, though this varies. Your surgeon will give you a timeline based on the exact procedure. Heavy lifting is usually limited the longest.
Can I try something other than surgery first?
Yes, and doctors usually recommend it. Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, bladder training, and medicines often help before surgery is considered.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
