The decision between a sling or an AUS depends on your degree of incontinence. A sling is meant to improve degree of continence for men struggling with minor stress incontinence. An AUS is meant for men with higher degrees of incontinence (ie. multiple pads/day).
I had sling surgery about 6 weeks ago because 3 years post RP, I still struggled with minor stress incontinence, especially when I worked out in the gym or paddled (I co-captain a dragon boat team of prostate cancer survivors), so my urologist suggested I would be a good candidate for a Sling.
The surgery was straightforward and uncomplicated, catheter for 2 days, and given the location of the incisions (perineum and scrotum), it was a bit tender for about 2 weeks. Pain was easily managed with extra strength Tylenol for first week.
Once catheter is removed you will know whether it worked or not, and in my case, I am happy to report I am pad free at the moment. As I am just 6 weeks post sling surgery, I am only just gradually getting back to regular exercise, so the real test of how it performs under vigorous exercise (heavy lifting, high intensity cardio, paddling) remains to be seen. At this point, I can say it was successful.