Penile Implant – Restore Function and Confidence
Penile implant surgery helps men with erectile dysfunction regain sexual function and confidence. Safe and effective solutions for lasting results and improved quality of life.
Penile Implants
A penile implant is a medical device surgically placed inside the penis to help men with erectile dysfunction (ED) achieve and maintain an erection when other treatments have failed. There are two main types: inflatable implants, which can be pumped up to create an erection and deflated afterward, and semirigid (non-inflatable) implants, which keep the penis firm and allow manual positioning. The procedure is performed under anesthesia and usually takes one to two hours.
What is a penile implant?
A penile implant is a medical device surgically placed inside the penis to help men with erectile dysfunction (ED) achieve an erection. Penile implants are usually considered when other ED treatments, such as medications or injections, have not been effective. These implants restore the ability to have sexual activity and improve confidence and quality of life.
Types of penile implants
There are two main types of penile implants:
Inflatable implants:
These implants can be inflated to produce an erection and deflated afterward. They provide a more natural appearance and feel during an erection.Semirigid (non-inflatable) implants:
These implants keep the penis firm at all times, allowing for manual positioning when needed. They are simpler in design but less flexible than inflatable implants.
Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, which should be discussed with a urologist before deciding on the most suitable option.
How Does a Penile Implant Work?
A penile implant is a medical device that helps men with erectile dysfunction (ED) achieve an erection. There are two types: inflatable and non-inflatable (semirigid).
- Inflatable implants consist of two cylinders inside the penis, a fluid reservoir under the lower abdominal muscles, and a pump placed in the scrotum. Pressing the pump moves fluid from the reservoir into the cylinders, creating an erection. A valve on the pump returns the fluid to the reservoir to deflate the penis after use. This allows control over the timing and rigidity of the erection.
- Non-inflatable implants consist of two flexible silicone rods inside the penis. They remain firm at all times, and the penis can be manually positioned for intercourse. The hardness does not change, even after orgasm.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
A penile implant is usually recommended for men with ED or Peyronie’s disease who have not responded to medications, vacuum devices, or other conservative treatments. It is also used after surgeries like metoidioplasty or phalloplasty for penis reconstruction.
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How to Prepare for Penile Implant Surgery
Before surgery, you will meet with a urologist or healthcare provider to ensure a penile implant is right for you. Preparation typically includes:
Medical History Review
Be ready to discuss your experience with erectile dysfunction (ED), past and current medical conditions, medications, and previous surgeries.Physical Exam
Your provider will conduct a thorough urologic exam to confirm the type and severity of your ED. They will also check your ability to use your hands, as some implants require manual dexterity to operate.Discuss Expectations
Your provider will explain the procedure, the types of penile implants available, and which implant best suits your needs. This is a permanent, irreversible procedure, so it’s important to fully understand what to expect.Benefits and Risks
The healthcare provider will review potential complications, recovery expectations, and outcomes. Including your partner in this discussion can be helpful to set realistic expectations and ensure shared understanding.
What You Can Expect
Before the Procedure
Penile implant surgery is typically performed at a hospital or specialized surgery center. Depending on your health and preference, your healthcare provider may administer general anesthesia, which makes you unconscious during the procedure, or spinal anesthesia, which numbs the lower half of your body.
To prevent infection, you will receive intravenous antibiotics, and the surgical area will be cleaned with an alcohol-based antiseptic solution and shaved prior to surgery.
During Surgery
In some cases, a urinary catheter may be inserted to collect urine during the procedure. Your surgeon will make an incision either below the head of the penis, at the base of the penis, or in the lower abdomen.
The surgeon will then stretch the corpora cavernosa, the spongy chambers in the penis that normally fill with blood during an erection. After assessing your anatomy, your surgeon will select and place the appropriately sized implant cylinders inside the penis. All implants are custom-fitted to your body measurements.
For a two-piece inflatable implant, a pump and valve are placed inside the scrotum.
For a three-piece implant, a fluid reservoir is also implanted above or under the abdominal wall, sometimes requiring a second incision.
Once the implant is positioned correctly, the incisions are closed with sutures. The surgery typically takes 45 minutes to an hour.
After Surgery
Post-surgery, you may experience some discomfort, which is managed with pain medications. A long-acting injection may be administered into the scrotum to relieve pain for 48 to 72 hours, though mild soreness can last several weeks. Oral antibiotics are often prescribed for about a week to prevent infection.
Your healthcare provider will guide you on resuming normal activities. Most men can return to strenuous activities and sexual activity within 4 to 6 weeks.
For inflatable implants, you will usually begin learning to operate the device 3 to 6 weeks after surgery. Your provider may instruct you to repeatedly inflate and deflate the implant to practice using it and to help stretch the surrounding tissue for optimal function.
Results
Although penile implants are considered the most invasive treatment for erectile dysfunction, they consistently achieve high satisfaction rates among patients and their partners. Men report improved sexual performance and quality of life, making penile implants one of the most effective solutions for ED.
Risks of Penile Implant Surgery
While penile implant surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications:
Infection
As with any surgery, infection is possible. The risk may be higher if you have diabetes, a spinal cord injury, or other health conditions. Infections usually occur within the first three months after surgery and may require implant removal to treat the infection.Implant Problems
Modern penile implants are highly reliable, but malfunctions can occur. Rarely, an implant may break or fail. In such cases, surgery may be needed to repair or replace it, though some patients choose to leave a non-functioning implant in place.Internal Erosion or Adhesion
On rare occasions, the implant may adhere to internal tissue or wear away the skin from inside the penis. In extremely rare cases, the implant can erode through the skin. These issues are sometimes linked to infection and may require additional surgery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Penile implants are increasingly popular. Between 2005 and 2012, over 63,000 implants were performed worldwide, with about 86% in the United States.
On average, penile implants last around 20 years. If the implant wears out, it can usually be replaced with a new one.
Implants do not significantly increase size. The erection is generally similar to the stretched length of the penis before surgery. The head of the penis (glans) does not become hard with the implant, but medications may improve blood flow if needed. Modern inflatable models may slightly enhance length, girth, and rigidity over time.
The implant is custom-fitted. Your surgeon measures the inside of your penis and selects the largest implant that is safe for your body.
Most men can resume normal activities and sexual activity within 4 to 6 weeks. Mild discomfort or soreness may last a few weeks, and your healthcare provider will guide you on gradually resuming exercise and other physical activities.
Yes, penile implants are designed to be a long-term solution for erectile dysfunction. Modern implants can last up to 20 years, but they may need replacement or revision if they malfunction or wear out.
Penile implants do not significantly increase your penis size. Your erection may appear slightly shorter than natural erections, and the head of the penis does not become engorged with inflatable implants. Some modern implants can slightly enhance length and girth over time.
Risks include infection, implant malfunction, scarring, shifting of the implant, erosion of tissue, or rarely, the need to remove the implant. Your surgeon will discuss these risks and steps to minimize complications before surgery.
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