Penile Prosthesis (Penis Implant)

A penile prosthesis (penis implant) can restore satisfactory rigidity when erectile dysfunction does not improve with medication, injections, or lifestyle changes—offering either permanent or temporary solutions.

What is a penile prosthesis?

A penile prosthesis is a medical implant placed inside the two spongy cylinders of the penis called the corpora cavernosa. Using a mechanical or hydraulic system, it produces an erection. The device is entirely internal, invisible from the outside, and aims to replicate natural sexual function.

Why is penile prosthesis surgery performed?

It is indicated in the following situations:

• Treatment-resistant erectile dysfunction (e.g., diabetes, vascular disease, post-prostate surgery, spinal cord injury)
• Peyronie’s disease with erectile dysfunction
• Inability or discomfort with using other methods like vacuum devices or injections

Who is a candidate?

Suitable candidates include:

• Moderate-to-severe erectile dysfunction unresponsive to medication
• Well-controlled diabetes/hypertension
• Realistic expectations and ability to learn device use

Unsuitable candidates include:

• Active urinary/systemic infection
• Uncontrolled diabetes or bleeding disorders
• Psychogenic erectile dysfunction responsive to counseling

Types of Penile Prostheses

A. Permanent (Implantable)

• Malleable (Semi-Rigid): Simple, bendable silicone-metal rods. Permanently semi-rigid. Low failure rate.
• Inflatable Two-Piece: Cylinder with combined pump-reservoir; easier placement; moderate rigidity.
• Inflatable Three-Piece: Cylinder, scrotal pump, abdominal reservoir. Most natural function.

B. Temporary / Adjunctive Options

• Vacuum Erection Device (VED): Non-surgical, uses negative pressure and constriction ring.
• Penile Stent / Dilator: Temporary intracavernous support.
• Inflatable Intracavernous Catheter: Experimental trial device.

How is the surgery performed?

• Anesthesia: General or spinal
• Incision: Penoscrotal (most common) or infrapubic
• Cylinder Placement: Corporotomy with dilator; cylinders inserted
• Inflatable Components: Pump in scrotum, reservoir in abdomen
• Closure: Waterproof dressing and scrotal support
• Duration: 45 mins (semi-rigid), 70–90 mins (three-piece)

Key Features of the Surgery

• Hospital stay: 24–48 hours
• Pain: Controlled with oral painkillers
• Invisibility under clothing
• Inflatable models allow on-demand erections

Pre- and Postoperative Care

• Pre-op: Blood/urine tests, glucose control, antibiotics
• First 48 hours: Bed rest
• 1–2 weeks: Light activity, reduced swelling
• 4–6 weeks: Pump training, return to sexual activity

Frequently Asked Questions

1-Does the operation hurt?

No. Performed under anesthesia. Post-op pain is managed with oral meds.

2-Which lasts longer—semi-rigid or inflatable?

Semi-rigid: No mechanical parts, over 15 years of reliability. Inflatable: 5–15% failure at 10 years.

3-Will my penis become shorter?

No true shortening unless there’s scarring from prior conditions. Surgeon adjusts length during surgery.

4-How is infection prevented?

Antiseptic prep, antibiotics, and coated implants reduce infection risk to 1–3%.

5-What’s the success rate in diabetics?

85–90% if glucose is controlled. HbA1c should ideally be under 8%.

6-Can my partner feel the implant?

No. Inflatable types feel natural and are undetectable when deflated.

7-Does it affect orgasm or ejaculation?

No. Sexual sensation and orgasm usually remain unchanged.

8-Is it MRI-safe?

Yes. Most implants are MR-conditional. Inform radiologist beforehand.

9-What if the device fails?

Components can be replaced. High success in experienced centers.

10-When can I resume sex?

Usually 4–6 weeks post-op, after training with inflatable pump.

11-What is the price?

Costs vary by prosthesis type and procedure complexity. Contact us for details.