Penile prosthetic surgery is a treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction (ED). A penile prosthesis, also called penile implant, is a device that is installed inside the penis to assist in getting erections. Penile prosthetic surgery is recommended when conservative treatments for ED have failed to deliver adequate results.
As with any surgery, it’s important to understand what this procedure involves as well as the possible risks, complications, and overall process.
Why Is A Penile Prosthetic Surgery Done?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) can often be treated with medications, therapy, and through the use of a pump. A penile implant is utilized when problems related to ED are not improving naturally or through other treatments. When scarring prompts erections to curve (Peyronie’s disease), a penile prosthesis is also sometimes inserted during surgery to reconstruct the penis.
You might consider getting a penile implant if you can’t get an erection adequate enough for sexual activity, and your condition is unsuited for other treatments. An important thing to keep in mind is a penis implant does not boost sexual desire or sensations. It will also have no lengthening effect on the size of your penis. A penile implant also does not alter your ability to reach orgasm or ejaculate.
Penile prosthetic surgery is not for everyone. You may not be the right candidate if you have any of the following:
- Unmanaged diabetes
- Frequent infections, such as urinary tract infections or pulmonary infections
- The cause of your ED is potentially reversible or due to circumstances such as relationship problems, stress, or obesity
How Does It Work?
The most uncomplicated type of prosthesis involves a pair of flexible silicone rods surgically inserted in the erection chambers of the penis. Most men choose a hydraulic, inflatable prosthesis that lets them have an erection whenever they want. Both of these procedures work differently and have various advantages and disadvantages.
For an inflatable penile implant, a pump, reservoir, and two cylinders are installed surgically. The pump is implanted under the loose skin of the scrotal sac located between the testicles. The cylinders are inserted in the penis and joined through a tube to the reservoir, which is embedded under the lower abdominal muscles.
You press on the pump to expand the prosthesis. This process does not put any stress on the testicles. The pump inflates the penis by transferring fluid from the reservoir to the cylinders. The penis deflates by pressing the valve at the base of the pump, returning the fluid to the reservoir.
Risks of Penile Prosthetic Surgery
Like any other surgery, penile prosthetic surgery has risks you should discuss with your surgeon. For the most part, penile prosthetic surgery is a very safe procedure with minimal risk of complications. In rare situations, the following complications can occur:
- Infection. Infection is possible, as with any surgery. Spinal cord injury or diabetes can increase your risk of infection. Your surgeon will take steps to reduce your risk.
- Internal erosion or adhesion. There are rare cases when an implant sticks to the skin inside the penis or ruptures through the skin. These issues may be associated with an infection.
- Malfunctioning implants. There are some cases when the prosthesis might fail. You may need another surgery to remove, repair, or replace it.
Some other rare complications are uncontrolled bleeding after surgery, scar tissue formation, and pump or reservoir displacement.
Urologist in Phoenix, AZ
Patients who have had penile prosthetic surgery are able to enjoy intimacy once again. If conservative treatments have failed to give you the results you want, consider learning more about this procedure and whether it’s right for you.
At Ironwood Urology, we can help you reclaim your life and get to the root of your ED. Whether you go with a conservative treatment or surgery, we will be there for you every step of the way to provide education and guidance, so you make the right decision. Make an appointment by calling (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment online.
